Bowen Island Undercurrent November 14 2019

LIBRARY LOVE: visitation and circulation up at B.I. Library

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2019

ANNIVERSARY PARTY

VOL. 45, NO. 46

BIUndercurrent

The Knick Knack Nook celebrated 10 years last weekend PAGES 5 & 10

BowUndercurrent www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

A prized poet ISLANDER SUSAN ALEXANDER WINS THE $20,000 MITCHELL PRIZE

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO PHOTO

REMEMBERING: Youth members of the Bowen Island Football Club lay a wreath at Bowen’s Remembrance Day service

Nov. 11. For more photos of the ceremony, see p. 10 & 11.

Muni Morsels: puzzling over parking BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

The following are updates from the Nov. 12 regular council meeting.

Parking the emergency: While the development variance permit for fewer required parking spots in the 27-unit affordable housing project on Area 1 of Lot 2 (the parking lot across from the museum) passed with little

ado, a subsequent motion to investigate alternative parking in the cove was a sticking point for councillors.

Councillor Maureen Nicholson drew up the recommendation in light of the loss of the museum-facing parking lot and the potential for development on other Cove parking lots (such as the one beside the RCMP station and the one behind the Village Baker).

Councillors Rob Wynen and Sue Ellen

Fast were against the motion. Wynen said he had a problem with the piecemeal approach to solving the parking problem, Fast was concerned with the “if you build it, they will come” effect and the potential for people to get used to extra parking. Fast noted that Bowen needed to be making choices in alignment with the climate emergency council had declared in the preCONTINUED ON PAGE 3 vious meeting.

I liked the old gods before they slipped into the bunker.

– “Anthropocene” Through doves and stars, cedars and sea lions, Susan Alexander grapples with the climate crisis and environmental grief in her prize-winning suite of poems, Vigil. The islander received the $20,000 Ross and Davis Mitchell Prize for religious faith and poetry in a ceremony at the Aga Kahn Museum in Toronto last month.

Image magazine presents the prize every two years to a Canadian poet, selected by jury, “whose work wrestles with the beauty and complexity of religious faith.” This is just the second time the prize has been awarded.

“I was so delighted when I found out I got on that shortlist,” says Alexander. She’d decided to apply for the prize just a month before the deadline at the urging of a friend who knew she was a person of faith.

“So I went through a lot of my poems and I realized…I’ve been writing a lot, because it’s really what’s kind of on my heart these days, [about] the environment and the climate crisis.”

Through her poems, Alexander confronts her implication in the growing environmental emergency.

“I’ve very much benefited from fossil fuels,” she says.

“Nobody but the kids aren’t implicated in this crisis.”

“And I started writing about it.”

“Friends of mine are involved in My Sea to Sky and a lot of Howe Sound issues and so I’ve been just watching locally just how difficult it is to make changes.”

Alexander says she’s been influenced by people like local filmmaker Bob Turner, who is known for his narrative films of close encounters with marine life in the sound. The final poem in the suite, “Canticle for sea lions in Howe Sound” (a canticle is a hymn or chant) contrasts sea lions barking outside an open window with the approved LNG plant and McNab estuary gravel mine.

The creators of the Bowen/Nexwlélexm Marine Atlas (this crew includes Turner) have already asked to include the poem in their upcoming publication.

The Mitchell Prize’s five finalists, who could be of any faith and write on any topic, were flown to Toronto and put up in a hotel for the night. “That was the biggest thing I’d ever had, really, as a poet,” says Alexander.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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2 • THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019

November 14, 2019 7:00 pm Heritage Commission Meeting

November 18, 2019 7:00 pm Advisory Planning Commission Meeting

November 19, 2019 7:00 pm Parks, Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee Meeting

November 20, 2019 4:00 pm Finance Advisory Committee Meeting

November 20, 2019 6:00 pm Advisory Design Panel Meeting

November 25, 2019 6:15 pm Regular Council Committee Meeting All meetings are held in Council Chambers unless otherwise noted.

Council and Committee meetings are open to the public. We encourage you to attend in person or watch online.

Permanent Full-Time Financial Officer

Request for Volunteer Library Board Members

The Bowen Island Municipality Finance & Administration department has an immediate opening for a full-time Financial Officer.

The preferred candidate will possess considerable knowledge of Public Sector Accounting Standards, of the basic principles and standards of municipal accounting, and rules and regulations which govern departmental activities.

Key duties of the Library Board are: • Setting the strategic direction and goals of the library • Determining policy and rules for managing the provision of public library services and for regulating the use of the library facilities and programs by the public • Appointing and reviewing performance of the Chief Librarian This posting does not list all the duties of the position, nor • Preparing an annual operating budget to present to does it fully detail the required skills, knowledge and abilities, Council licenses and certificates required of candidates.

• Reviewing the annual operating budget and monitoring revenue and expenditures through the Please submit your cover letter and resume via email by year November 22nd, 2019 at 4:00 PM to: The Board meets 10 times per year on the third Thursday of R. Hayre the month.

Chief Financial Officer Email: hr@bimbc.ca Interested individuals are asked to submit a one-page Web: www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/jobs summary of their background, skills and expertise relative to the duties and responsibilities of the position.

We thank all applicants, but only those being considered for interviews will be contacted.

Information about the role of Library Board members can be found on the Library’s website at: bowenlibrary.ca/about-us/library-information/board-members The successful candidate has completed or is near completion of a professional accounting designation with related work experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience preferably in a municipal setting. Strong Microsoft office and Enterprise Resource Management skills would be considered an asset.

FREE RentSmart Workshop for Landlords

Bowen Island Municipality and Bowen Island Resilient Community Housing (BIRCH) are hosting RentSmart Workshops at Municipal Hall.

With this FREE workshop for landlords, you will: • • • •

Questions? Please contact the Bowen Island Public Library at info@bowenlibrary.ca.

Interested applicants are asked to respond in writing, via email, fax or regular mail, with the requested information by Friday, November 22, 2019 at 4:00 p.m. to:

Learn about your rights as a landlord as well as your responsibilities Improve your chances for finding a great tenant Identify what to look for when choosing tenants Learn techniques for communicating with your tenant Saturday, November 30, 2019 9:30 - 12:30 pm Municipal Hall 981 Artisan Lane

Results of Alternative Approval Process Council received the results of the Alternative Approval Process (AAP) for Bylaw 488, 2019 at its regular meeting on October 28, 2019. During the 32 day submission period, a total of seven Elector Response Forms were received.

Elector approval was obtained through the AAP as fewer than 10% of eligible electors objected to the Bylaw. Council adopted the Bylaw, and approved staff to proceed with the process for borrowing $2,533,000 to build the Cove Bay Water Treatment Plant.

General Enquiries

Contact Us

Phone: Fax: Email:

Bowen Island Municipal Hall 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2

Hope Dallas-Kerr, Corporate Officer Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 FAX: 604-947-0193 EMAIL: hdallas@bimbc.ca

EXTENDED: Ice & Snow Removal

Please register at bowenrentsmart3.eventbrite.ca

604-947-4255 604-947-0193 bim@bimbc.ca

Bowen Island Municipality and Bowen Island Public Library are seeking applications from Bowen Island residents interested in joining the Bowen Island Public Library Board.

We are seeking applications from members of the public with diverse skills and interests who are committed to the ideals of open and equitable access to information through public library service.

Bowen Island Municipality seeks applications for interest in the following: • •

Ice Patrol - Temperature Dependent Snow Removal - Weather Dependent

Please provide a written response expressing interest in the On-Call position(s) by email before Friday, November 15, 2019 at 4:00 PM to: Rachel Pryce-Jones, Public Works Coordinator EMAIL: rpryce-jones@bimbc.ca Phone: 604-947-0613 Please contact ICBC (1-800-663-3051) to request a driver’s license abstract and ask ICBC to forward it directly to BIM by fax at 604-947-0193.

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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019 • 3

ISLAND NEWS

Islanders love the local library More Muni Morsels CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

VISITS TO THE BOWEN ISLAND LIBRARY ROSE BY HALF IN 2018 AND CIRCULATION ROSE BY 10%

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor

When Tina Nielsen started volunteering at the Bowen Island Library, the library was 400 square feet in the old general store, with a wall separating books from merchandise.

Suffice it to say, times have changed. The library’s moved twice (to a suite under the pharmacy and then back to the old general store building), has expanded into the Cove Commons and Nielsen now runs the place (as chief librarian, not a volunteer).

But these days, many Bowen Islanders wouldn’t change a thing behind the mock Tudor face of the library.

In a library-circulated survey, 91 per cent of the 349 respondents said that the library’s overall service was good or excellent. When asked how the library could improve its service, 59 out of 208 respondents said that there weren’t any improvements needed. The next most popular answer (51 responses) said that the library could do with expanding its collection.

These responses come on the heels of a banner year for the local institution. The Bowen library saw visits rise by half in 2018 and materials borrowed rise by 10 per cent over the previous year.

Nielsen credits the rise in library use to increased communication through newsletters and the newspaper and the publicity and excitement surrounding the opening of the Cove Commons building early last year: an “if you build it, they will come” situation.

The Cove Commons building meant an annex for the library, an area where people could study, do work or read and where the library could hold programming, such as author talks, reconciliation workshops or resume writing workshops.

“We assumed when we opened the Cove Commons and the annex that we would see some growth, definitely in programming, because we suddenly were going to do programming that we couldn’t do before,” says Nielsen, “but we were surprised at how much more it had increased.”

At a time when other libraries are seeing slowly decreasing circulation numbers, Nielsen ties the Bowen rise to the rise in visitation.

“If they walk through the door, and they haven’t been there before, they’re more inclined to actually check something out and use the library,” she says. “Maybe they came for a program and hadn’t been big library users before that and then they look around and say, Well, maybe I should just take something now that I’m here.”

In a community of just under 4,000 people,

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO PHOTO

Bowen’s library has more than 2,000 regular users (people who have used the library in the last three years) says Nielsen.

“It’s a good chunk of the population that is considered regular and there’s a slightly larger number of who actually still has a card and maybe they haven’t been in in a while,” says Nielsen “And I’m always surprised how, even people who may not use the library…who nonetheless, believe it’s an important institution to have and believe that the service should be provided,” says Nielsen.

“That libraries are an important part of what makes a community and what makes it interesting for people to live a certain place.”

Nielsen says that her biggest challenge now, following the results of the survey where a quarter of respondents said that they wanted more books, is where to put the sought books. But it’s a good problem to have. Nielsen says that with the rise of the Internet and e-books, that libraries were concerned about staying relevant.

“And we’re trying to all kind of expand beyond just books, but it keeps coming back to me, that [what] people want…it’s books and learning. And those two things really become the key things for us.”

“The internet is not the death of libraries any more than television was the death of radio or radio was the death of singing or all the things that we predict over time will happen,” says Nielsen. “I think everybody just wants it all in different ways.”

Disclosure: In 2018 the library gained 443 new members. The author of this story was most happily one of them.

Fast’s comment was the only significant mention of the climate emergency during the meeting.

One committee down: at the suggestion of emergency program coordinator Jennifer McGowan, council agreed to disband the Emergency Program Management Committee. The committee of BIM staff and local leaders was formed in the wake of BIM creating its emergency program in 2016 and was a subset of the Emergency Program Executive Committee, which remains intact.

“Staff and stakeholders remain eager to meet, train, and practice skills in multi-agency exercises, and will continue to build and foster working relationships to prepare Bowen Island to respond to and quickly recover from emergencies, but feel they can more easily do so outside of a formal municipal committee structure,” said McGowan’s report to council.

“The Emergency Program Executive Committee will remain able to strike working groups as necessary to take on specific projects despite any collapse of the Emergency Program Management Committee.”

McGowan also said in her report that dissolving this committee will help reduce Bowen’s above average number of committees (which, according to the BIM site, now stand at 26).

“Members of the committee welcome the change, which is also expected to save staff time and reduce costs for the Municipality,” wrote McGowan. The resolution passed unanimously.

Colouring inside the lines: Over the next 13 months, BIM will review the Snug Cove Design Guidelines to reinforce the “arts and crafts” theme of the Cove. The process is to involve an invitation-only workshop, a public open house, and updating the guidelines document.

Early budget days: The draft one, version two of the 2020 Islands Trust budget is online at islandstrust.bc.ca/media/348483/fpc_2019-11-12_ agd_pkg_final.pdf. The budget has Bowen’s requisition rising 3.8 per cent (by $12,532) up to $34,2166. Councillor Fast, who is on the Trust’s executive committee, says that Trust staff are looking at how to reduce Bowen’s contribution further.

Recent news releases from BIM Firefighters: the mediation task force addressing the conflict between

the volunteer firefighters and BIM moved the completion date for phase two of the arbitration process to Nov. 25. A letter from the task force dated Nov. 2 said that the initial timeline with a completion date of Nov. 4 was pushed back “given the concerns raised by the volunteer firefighters and their desire to have legal representation” and as two task members had pre-scheduled vacations this month. The letter said that the interview process with the firefighters moved forward last week.

Not going to lead us down: given the Canada-wide investigation that found high levels of lead in drinking water in many cities that was published Nov. 4, BIM said Nov. 7 that over coming weeks it would be doing spot testing in municipal water systems.

The news release said that when BIM incorporated in 1999, it inherited the water systems and the provided infrastructure records were incomplete. “Therefore the municipality does not have a clear inventory of piping used for individual service connections, where the lead concern typically occurs.

“We are confident that the public water systems––the portion of the system Bowen Island Municipality is responsible for––are not a lead leaching risk, however as an added precaution will be spot testing in the coming weeks to be sure.”

Bowen’s source water is regularly tested and has lead levels below drinking water guidelines said the release.

“Bowen Island is currently working with VCH to further evaluate the potential risks in Bowen Island’s water systems and to provide its residents with resource material and guidance on how to address any concerns they may have,” it said.

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4 • THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019

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VIEWPOINT

EDITORIAL

Grieving

It’s been a heavy week for the community, as Bowenites are mourning 22-year-old islander Shailanne Stedmances. The RCMP called off the land search for Stedmances last Thursday after finding strong evidence she disappeared into the sea. A few days later, at the Remembrance Day ceremony, officiant Rev. Lorraine Ashdown took a moment to recognize a family and our community’s recent loss. While the Bowen RCMP have continued searching nearby waters by boat, Cpl. Adam Koehle said that they have no new updates. I’ve always been impressed by Bowen’s ability to close ranks around islanders in need or in mourning.

Last week demonstrated the strenth of this community’s support.

On a completely different note

I have read more poetry in the last year and a half than I think I had in the previous decade. Bowen Island is brimming with poets (Ron Woodall captured this in his classic cartoon of the non-writers’ festival).

Though I’ve never been a “poetry person,” I’m not sure I’ve ever walked away from a conversation with a poet without somehow feeling fuller. Like the world just became a little more nuanced.

For this week’s front page story, I got to read Susan Alexander’s unpublished collection, Vigil, that won the Ross and Davis Mitchell Prize last month.

Where the deep current of environmental and personal grief through the 14 poems would normally weigh on me, reading this collection feels like you’ve cried your eyes out and are now ready to do something.

Really, it’s where I hope we all are these days. At the crossroads of optimism and despair.

I hope there’s a time where islanders will too get to read this collection, whether it be across several publications, or in a chapbook. Unlike climate action, it’s worth waiting for.

—Bronwyn Beairsto, Editor

To a kind stranger To the nice man who paid for my mother’s ferry ticket on Halloween and then disappeared, a very big and hearty THANK YOU!!!

––Peter Ryan

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Are you the stuff of BIRCH’s BARC?

DEAR EDITOR: Hi Bowen! It’s us, BIRCH, your friendly Bowen Island community housing initiative! We wanted to take this opportunity to provide an update on the project and where we’re headed next. Earlier this year, BIRCH signed an agreement with Bowen Island Municipality to lease 0.15ha of land on Lot 3. Since then, we’ve been working with our neighbours, Bowen Island Health Centre and Bowen Island Fire Department, to coordinate the layout of the site. Helping us along we’ve received grants from Bowen

Island Community Foundation, Bowen Island Municipality, VanCity Foundation and CMHC, totalling over $90,000. These funds are key to our ability to continue advancing the project and we very much appreciate the support from these organizations.

And now the fun part. BARC, BIRCH’s advisory committee, is looking for some new members to help guide us. BARC meets every few months and provides feedback on all aspects of BIRCH’s work. Mindful that most Bowen Islanders have many demands on their time, we try to keep the meetings short and focused.

The next BARC meeting is November 25 from 7 p.m. to 9 pm and we would love for you to join us. If you or someone you know would be interested in joining BARC, please contact info@ birchousing.org —Robyn Fenton, BIRCH

MICHAEL CHAPMAN PHOTO

Bowen’s tent city ended Oct. 24.

Michael Chapman sent in this photo of the end.

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.

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.

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EDITOR BronwynBeairsto editor@bowenisland undercurrent.com

ADVERTISING Tracey Wait ads@bowenisland undercurrent.com

CARTOONIST Ron Woodall

PUBLISHER Peter Kvarnstrom publisher@bowenisland undercurrent.com

2011 CCNA

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2011

The Undercurrent is a member of the National NewsMedia Council of Canada, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please email editor@bowenislandundercurrent. com or call 604-947-2442.

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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019 • 5

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A weekend to remember

Still giving: the Knick Knack Nook’s 10th anniversary gift to the health centre project

DEAR EDITOR: Ten years ago, a dedicated group of volunteers came together to create one of Bowen Island’s best-loved institutions: the Knick Knack Nook. To help create a new and vitally-needed Bowen institution––the Bowen Island Health Centre–– the Nook generously included the Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation in its celebrations.

Through their month-long online auction and anniversary celebration at the Legion on Saturday night, the Nook raised more than $10,000 for the Health Centre Foundation. This money represents the effort and generosity of many organizers, volunteers, auction donors, and bidders.

We would like to thank a few of those who played key roles in the success of the auction and the evening: Donna and Tim Scorer, Katherine and John Lawrence, Cheryl Evans, Cathy

Bayly, Mercia Sixta, David and Shirley Wrinch, Jane Kellet, Susan Leithead, and Julie Saxton and the dozens of KKN volunteers who helped at the event. Last but not least, a special shout out to the glamorous stars of the bottle auction fashion show, and to the highly entertaining (and persuasive) auctioneer, Graham Ritchie.

We are particularly grateful to the Knick Knack Nook for their decision to absorb all the costs of the event this year, and donate the full proceeds to the Health Centre Foundation.

We still have a way to go to meet the fundraising target for the Health Centre, and it will take everyone to help make it happen. This past Saturday night was a great reminder of the spirit and generosity in this community that will get us there.

—Tim Rhodes President, Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL EPP

BOWEN ISLAND MUNICIPALITY PHOTO

An Emergency Support Services volunteer assists an “evacuee” at a registrations and referrals station in the reception centre at a BIM emergency response exercise last weekend.

Read the full story on p. 15.

Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH

FOOD BANK DROP-OFF

ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Sunday Mass: 9:30 a.m.

Administration Office: 604-682-6774 www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661 Carter Rd.)

10:00 a.m. Worship Sunday School: Tots to Teens

Pastor: Phil Adkins

Al (Wil Thompson) listens as his pal Marcus (Blake Valletta) unburdens himself in ‘The Philadelphia’ at the Ives on the Isle production last weekend. Read the full story on p. 12.

Schedule in Effect: October 15, 2019 to March 31, 2020 On December 25, & January 1 service will begin with the 8:35 am sailing from Bowen Island and the 8:00 am sailing from Horseshoe Bay.

▼

BOWEN ISLAND Snug Cove

5:20 am^ 6:20 am< 7:30 am< 8:35 am 9:40 am 10:50 am 12:00 pm 1:10 pm 2:55 pm 4:00 pm† 5:10 pm 6:15 pm 7:25 pm* 8:30 pm 9:30 pm 10:30 pm

VANCOUVER Horseshoe Bay 5:50 am< 6:50 am< 8:00 am 9:05 am† 10:15 am 11:25 am 12:35 pm 2:20 pm 3:30 pm 4:35 pm 5:45 pm 6:50 pm 8:00 pm* 9:00 pm 10:00 pm

Distance: 3 NAUTICAL MILES Crossing Time: 20 MINUTES

Leave Horseshoe Bay

Reverend Lorraine Ashdown and Tina Overbury Service and Sunday School 10:30 am Collins Hall Bookings: Helen Wallwork Minister of Music: Lynn Williams

CATES HILL CHAPEL

CATHY BAYLY PHOTO

Donna Scorer gives opening remarks at the Knick Knack Nook’s 10th anniversary fundraiser at the Legion.

Leave Snug Cove

DEAR EDITOR: Our community had a great deal to be thankful for and remember this Remembrance Day weekend. The weekend culminated in a touching and memorable service at the cenotaph attended by hundreds. Hats off to the Union Steamship Marina folks who once again did a great job cleaning up the cenotaph and the area around it. They were joined by volunteers from the Legion and the Bowen Island Garden Club so thanks to that team effort we had our best foot forward and proved that volunteerism is alive and well on the island.

On Sunday night the BICS gymnasium was full with family, friends and neighbours for the Little Red Church’s annual Fall Supper, which was outstanding.

The meal itself was incredible thanks to the tireless kitchen talents of Dr. Yvonne McSkimming and her crew of volunteers from the church and elsewhere. It was a delight to attend an event at which everyone left with a smile of contentment and a full tummy, many with extra plates of turkey and all the trimmings and let’s not forget the delicious desert.

And it was a “perfect 10” on Saturday night at the Legion where the Knick Knack Nook saluted their remarkable 10th anniversary with a lovely and entertaining evening of celebration, a little history, a great amount of fun and FUNdraising. Hats off to the KKN, which donated the gross expenses, not net after expenses, to the Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation. I leave it to the BIHCF to provide the financial details but I must mention and commend the organizers for a unique KKN fashion show which was second to none, including Holt Renfrew’s! The only difference was the cost of the fashions as none of the KKN outfits retailed for more than $8 to $15, and were made to look all that much classier with the models, male and female, who were all KKN volunteers. Seeing the models strut their stuff on the stage was most entertaining and served as the medium for a highly successful auction of wine, spirits and lemonade. The audience was bidding blind as the bottles were tightly wrapped. Most of the bottles went for between $35 and $40, so you can be sure the few who ended up with water were happy to learn it was filtered! While the KKN is legendary, the BICHCF are just shifting into a higher gear with their fundraising for our much needed health care facility on Miller Road, next to the new firehall. It will benefit every one of us on the island, young, old and in between. We encourage everyone to support this initiative so please log onto their website at bowenhealthcentre.com then make a pledge or a donation.

As I said at the outset, it was a great weekend to remember and a reminder of how fortunate we all are to live in such a beautiful and wonderful community.

—Bruce & Dorene Russell

* DAILY EXCEPT SATURDAYS

< EXCEPT DEC 25 & JAN 1 ^ EXCEPT SUN AND NOV 11, DEC 25, JAN 1 & FEB 17 † DC WEDNESDAY SAILINGS WILL BE REPLACED BY DANGEROUS CARGO SAILINGS. NO OTHER PASSENGERS PERMITTED.

6 • THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019

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Prize-winning poems rooted in natural world CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

NIELSEN, Alice Inge (néée Sjøgren)), January 26, 1927 – November 3, 2019.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Alice Nielsen our dearly loved mum, and mormor. Alice passed away peacefully on Sunday November 3rd at the age of 92, at home on Bowen with her family by her side. Alice was pre-deceased by her loving husband Frank in 2015. She is survived by her daughters, Pernille Nielsen and Tina Nielsen (Marc Gawthrop), granddaughters Annalise Barber (Niall Sheridan) and Anya Reid (Hayes Zirnhelt), and great granddaughter Teslin Alice Reid-Zirnhelt.

Alice was born in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1927, the fourth of five children. She grew up through the Depression in a family with little money, but with the warmth and love of their mother making it all bearable. Alice left school at 14 to work and help support her family, but had a sharp mind and continued to educate herself through crosswords, libraries, reading and constantly trying new things. Alice’s teen years were spent during the second World War, which had a profound effect on her view of the world. She was heartbroken by the horrors of the war and was sensitive ever after to all injustices, whether individual or universal.

At the age of 26 Alice travelled to Canada to visit her brother Harry in Vancouver.

Within a few months she met Frank Nielsen, another Dane who had immigrated to Canada, and she fell in love – slowly. She had decided in her early twenties that marriage was not for her and planned to return to Denmark after a year travelling in Canada. So, when Frank proposed, she said she “would try it for a year” and see if it might work out.

Sixty-one years later, it seems it did work out – they married in 1954 and were together until Frank’s passing in 2015.

Alice and Frank settled in North Vancouver and raised their two daughters there. Alice was at home when her children were young but needed more stimulation as the girls entered high school. She worked part time at the Danish Bakery in Edgemont Village and then at Purdy’s downtown to help with finances and to get out into the world. When the whole family moved to Bowen Island in 1989, complete with two young granddaughters, Alice took on mothering once again, caring for Annalise and Anya after school while their parents worked.

Alice was a creative soul, teaching herself to paint and improving her work from books, PBS television and the occasional class. She painted prolifically during the 80’s and then added crochet, knitting, papier maché, rug hooking, mosiacs and jewellery-making to her repertoire. Always humble about her talents she kept most of her work at home, occasionally gifting a painting or some jewellery when asked.

Right up until 2 months before her passing, Alice remained clear, bright, witty and physically spry. She enjoyed daily walks with son-in-law Marc and the dogs through the forest and along favourite Bowen trails, clambering easily over logs and rocks and discussing all manner of current topics.

Alice was both feisty and incredibly caring. She was the go-to parent when things went wrong as her empathy and understanding could always be relied upon. But faced with injustice or a bully she was quick to react and stand up for those most vulnerable. Top that off with a dry and sophisticated wit and many were surprised by the spunk of this quiet, little woman.

She will be hugely missed by her children and grandchildren, her extended family and by friends new and old. “Good things come in small packages” she used to say, but there is a big empty space left by the loss of this small bundle of kindness.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday November 23rd at 1:30 pm at the Tunstall Bay Clubhouse, 1666 Tunstall Blvd Bowen Island, BC Canada V0N 1G2 In lieu of flowers please donate to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the Bowen Island charity of your choice.

The islander of more than 25 years describes herself as a relative newcomer to the poetry scene with 15 years of serious poetry writing under her belt (though she’s been a writer for much longer). Praise has met Alexander’s work in recent years: in 2016 she was awarded the Short Grain poetry prize, in 2018 she was longlisted for the CBC Poetry Prize and her poem “Scales” from her book The Dance Floor Tilts was selected for the Poetry in Transit program.

But the Mitchell Prize was a whole other level for Alexander.

Each finalist was to recite one of their poems at the ceremony. Alexander read out the Bible-riffing “Intercession” (an intercession is saying a prayer on behalf of someone else) at once a history lesson and critique of modern consumption. (“We lift up to You not only our petroleum sins of oil and gas,/ but also by-product spinoffs and our plastic iniquities…”)

“It had to take three minutes. This is a bit longer than three minutes,” says Alexander.

“I read this one because I thought this might be my only chance to say this.”

Though the distinctly theological titles of Alexander’s poems sometimes require a dictionary, the content is accessible, perhaps because the landscape is so familiar.

Though some poems are about personal grief and loss, Alexander roots them in the natural, often Bowen, world.

“I find God in nature,” says Alexander. “I go to the cathedral downtown, the Anglican Cathedral, because I love the community, and it’s got beautiful music and beautiful liturgy, and it’s a beautiful building, and it’s got a nice broad open liberal theology… [but] when I need to restore my soul. I have to get in the woods or by the ocean, sit on a beach.

“I feel like I can encounter the divine in the natural world.”

There’s a deep grief throughout Alexander’s suite, almost despair. Asked if she has hope for the future, Alexander says she’s uncertain.

“I feel like it’s naive to hope but it’s not naive to work,” she says. “I really celebrate people who are getting out there and doing the hard work to change things. Whether they’re lobbying governments or whether they’re just raising consciousness.”

“There’s a lot we can do, a lot that can be done, but…I feel like time’s running out,” says Alexander “When I look at the government, our government and look at the United States I don’t see much willingness. I mean, quite the opposite.”

Alexander’s husband Ross and daughter Libby, along with a few of Alexander’s friends, attended the Mitchell Prize ceremony. When Alexander’s name was called, it took a few seconds for the news to sink in. “[Libby] levitated screaming and then she looked and I hadn’t moved. She thought, ‘Oh Mom, I thought I’d heard it wrong!’” laughs Alexander. But win she did.

Unfortunately for Bowen Islanders curious about the suite, all the poems are still unpublished. Some poems are being considered for a magazine and another is to be part of the marine atlas. Alexander says she isn’t sure they’ll ever be published as a collection, though she likes the idea.

In the meantime, Alexander is $20,000 wealthier but she’s not planning on keeping the money.

“I’m going to look for projects. ” she says.

“I think that would feel good for me to use the money to support what’s the heart of the actual these poems.”

When considering the future and hope, Alexander took a few moments to think. “I guess I am a hopeful person.”

So I must lie awake with my window open, listen/there now can you hear them?––“Canticle for sea lions in Howe Sound”

In Memory of Yvon Gosselin August 3, 1953October 31, 2019

Yvon was a joyous and gentle man who lived his life to the fullest. He was kind, generous and took such pleasure in the everyday moments of life.

Yvon was born in Quebec to a French-Canadian father (Clement) and Dutch war bride mother (Johanna). He moved to Yellowknife, NWT in 1988 where he met and became friends with my brothers. In the Fall of 1992, Yvon arrived on Bowen Island for a brief visit. He stayed 24 years. I met Yvon at my parents’ home on Bowen on Christmas Day 1992 and we married exactly two years later.

We moved to Gambier Island in September 2016 – Yvon full-time and me part-time. We bought a lovely old cottage on 7 acres. As Yvon said “We have found our forever home”. He treasured the simple, slow paced life on Gambier.

Yvon leaves behind a family that loves him dearly. His sisters and brother, Carla, Sonya, Jacques and his nieces and nephew. His mother and father-inlaw Pat and Bob Lalonde; brother-in-law Duncan (Sherri) and nieces Sophie and Gabrielle; and brother-in-law Ian (Michelle) and nephew Joseph. His beloved old dog Linus.

Yvon touched so many lives and will be greatly missed by his family and friends in Quebec, NWT, Bowen Island and Gambier Island. A celebration of Yvon’s life will be held in the Spring. I would like to honour Yvon by putting together a memory book of his life. If you have stories, photos or just want to say hello, please email me at yvongosselin@me.com. yvv Goodbye my love.

Kathy Lalonde

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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019 • 7

SHED HOME WOOD WORKS SIMPLE SHELTERS by Paul & Basia Lieske A guest cabin, a garden shed, a wood shed, an art studio, a storage shed for bicycles; Shed Home Wood Works builds it all … and Paul and Basia will come to you.

They will work with you to design the perfect structure to meet your needs. Measure your space, show you styles, assess the building site and off ffer f exterior finishes and colour samples.

Shed Home can also build you a swing bed, a new deck, benches, a kitchen table, cabinets & more ... just give them a drawing!!!

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EMILY VAN LIDTH DE JEUDE PORTRAIT ARTIST

BOWEN ISLAND PUB MIXOLOGIST, Joshua Keith Young

Graphite or oil portraits on commission. Grey tones and a loose hand bring out character and feeling. Emily can work from photographs or interview & photo session with the subject.

The craft of mixing drinks combined with the art of tending bar requires equal parts passion and personality, mixed with a strong dose of knowledge and skill…shake it all together and you get Josh.

After spending many years of honing his skills at Vancouver’s busiest bars, we’re lucky to have Josh and his tasty libations at the local pub.

Give the gift of love and memories. emilyvanar tist@gmail.com emilyar tist.ca

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MARIE NEYS ARTIST Marie Neys is thrilled to showcase her work at Catching Stars Gallery, Bowen Island, BC.The Beaches, Oceans and West Coast inspire her.You will often find her walking the Cape Sea Walk & down on the Beaches of Tunstall Bay. Browse marieneys.com to view her more current works.

Originals, Giclee Fine Art Prints and Keep Sake Boxes are available.

For Enquiries marie@marieneys.com

SUPPORT LOCAL WORKS

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SCHOONER LANE DESIGNS KATHY CLARKE Schooner Lane Designs creates beautiful Cheese+Chopping+Serving Boards. Handmade, one-of-a-kind boards from Canadian hardwood, specifically chosen for its beauty and rustic characteristics. Functional Art to be enjoyed for many years.

Kathy also designs and creates unique jewelry — Organic, ‘Statement Pieces’ crafted from Sterling Silver, Copper and the Earth’s gemstones, her favourites being Agates.“I let the essence of the stone dictate the outcome of the design”.

778-847-3723 schoonerlanedesigns@gmail.com

SUE CLARKE POTTER

KATHLEEN AINSCOUGH MIXED MEDIA ARTS

For over 40 years Sue Clarke has called Bowen home and filled many a house with her distinctive designs. Potting came from attending classes in England with her mother, Joan Knight (a cherished Bowen character).

Kathleen creates mixed media artworks incorporating photography, paint, textiles and sculpture and actively exhibits, and teaches in these areas.You can view her creations locally at Catching Stars Gallery.

Image: Barn Boards, Mixed Media 24 x 30 (Available at Catching Stars Gallery)

Today, Sue’s work is available at Phoenix and at all the Christmas craft fairs.

kathleenainscough.com facebook:kathleen.ainscough.arts IG @kathains

p o t t y s u e @ s h a w. c a

SEA TO SKY CNC CRAIG PEARMAN This versatile design and fabrication workshop has industrial CNC-router capability and works with many materials.

Serving architects, shop owners, designers, construction, entrepreneurs, property managers, boat builders, restaurants, theatre, private individuals and others, with custom signage (commercial/residential), Adirondack chairs, textured wall panels, room dividers, corporate awards, panel-based furniture, live edge furniture, 3D terrain modelling, cutting boards, custom moulding, milling wood slabs, sawmilling, welding, and production and manufacturing support for startups.

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STANDSTALL CREATIONS ARTIST, SHANE TWETEN Shane Tweten is an emerging artist trained in the art of mask carving and sculpture.Trained by First Nations mentors he now applies his knowledge of the craft to his own Scandinavian and Celtic heritage.

Each piece is an original design, hand carved, painted and adorned, linking nature and mythology. Shane believes that there are no boundaries in woodcarving art; that the forms and faces are already present in the wood just waiting to be found.

s ta n d s ta l l c re a t i o n s. c a 604-831-8733

DIE GOLDSCHMIEDE JEWELERY BY GEROLD

CINDY MAY PHOTOGRAPHER

In Gerold’s studio at 205-566 Artisan Lane he creates your special one-of-a-kind jewellery art piece using traditional precious metals and gems.

Cindy May has been a pro for 30 years. She still shoots film and is a master printer working out of her own darkroom.

It’s a master studio in which your personal jewellery object is created.

Having many high-profile clients and working in all mediums, her real love is her B/W portraiture where she captures her subjects with a timeless laid-back style that is all her own.

diegoldschmiede.ca

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CYRILLE SAURA ZELLWEGER Pet Portrait and Wildlife Artist Cyrille is an artist who specializes in colour pencils pet portraits and wildlife drawings. From your photos, she captures the character and soul of animals to create artwork that will last a lifetime, using the highest quality of pencils and archival paper.

She is open to commissions and ships worldwide. She also sell prints and originals of her wildlife artwork.

c y r i l e . s a u ra @ g m a i l . c o m c y r i l l e s a u ra . c o m

SUPPORT LOCAL WORKS

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019 • 9

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BOWEN BEAT KKN 10 years later

The Knick Kack Nook held its 10th anniversary fundraiser Saturday evening.

The evening at the Legion included a silent auction and a fashion show and thousands of dollars raised for the health centre project. See more on page 5.

On the left, Cindy May and above Barbara Weismiller––models with bottles––wearing fashionable Nook clothing. Photos: Cathy Bayly

Graham Ritchie was the evening’s auctioneer. Photo: Marcus Hondro

Caelan, Ethan, Robert and Charlie after the Remembrance Day ceremony at the cenotaph. (Photo: Marcus Hondro)

Frank Patt talks with Edward Wachtman before the Remembrance Day ceremony.

Doug Elliott and Owen Plowman.

Islanders gathering for the Remembrance Day ceremony at the cenotaph Monday.

on Bowen Island

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BOWEN BEAT

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019 • 11

Remembrance Day

HundredsofislandersturnedoutfortheRemembrance Day ceremony at the cenotaph in Snug Cove Nov. 11.

Rev. Lorraine Ashdown led the ceremony, which was organized by the Legion. Among the dignitaries at this year’s event was West Vancouver-Sea to Sky MLA Jordan Sturdy.

PHOTOS BY BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Mark Klindt.

Second World War veteran Jim Moore, 96, was among those in attendance at the Remembrance Day ceremony.

Sarah Haxby.

Left: Cst. Greg Copeland and Cpl. Richard De Jong.

Above: Rev. Lorraine Ashdown and Dr. Yvonne McSkimming.

Scouts before the ceremony.

Early birds get the best rate and the Undercurrent in their mailbox every week!

Our newstand price is going to $1.50 per week Dec 5th and our subscription rates will moderately increase

Subscribe or renew before Dec 1 to save!

$45 per year local or $65 off island or as of Dec 1st $55 per year local or $85 off island

and if it's not quite time to renew your subscription? we'll take a prepayment!

604-947-2442 ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com online at bowenislandundercurrent.com

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Imaginative Ives on the Isle delights MICHAEL EPP

Contributor

The United Church Christmas Craft Fair 11-3 Sat. Nov 23, Collins Hall 1122 Miller Road

Local crafts, gifts, and concession. Please join us for a taste of Christmas.

Th he Bowe en Agricu ultural Alliiance (BA AA) is hostiing ga

BAA Winter Market and Craft Fair Bowe en Islland Co ommunitty Scho oo l Sat. Dec c. 7th h, 10-1pm, BIC C S gy m

Crafters, sauces,, jams, preserve es, food, fruit lea ather, kale, squash, Winter vegeta ables, baked go oods, seeds, arttisans and more e!

All ages welcome

Last Saturday evening we happy few who love performing art on Bowen Island, or at least rarely miss an opportunity to attend a performance, had the good fortune to witness a new outgrowth from an old tree with deep roots. Wil and Daly Thompson, and a group of their fellow students at Matthew Harrison’s Vancouver-based acting academy, The Actor’s Foundry, treated us to five short comic plays at the Tir-na-nOg theatre.

The playwright, David Ives, is an American with an impressively long resume dating back to the 1970s. It was all new to me, though I suspect, not to many others in the audience––people who know their stuff and made it their business to be there––you know, Hondro, Hodson, Neilsen, et al.

The sophistication of Ives’ comic premises, and his use of language, can’t be properly done justice to here, by me at least. Let me just recap the scenarios in brief. ‘A Singular Kinda Guy’: this was Wil Thompson’s opening monologue––replete with a bit where he “forgets” his lines, for just long enough to make us all squirm a bit––about a man who believes he is really a typewriter, and not just any typewriter. He successfully identifies his soulmate––a sheet of creamy-white 10 lb. bond––seated in the audience, before leaving the stage. ‘Sure Thing’: a young man attempts to kindle a connection with a girl in a café, although every time says or does the wrong thing, the conversation restarts (with the ringing of a bell––kudos to Jack Headley’s usual immaculate technical backup throughout but particularly in this sketch). Beautifully timed, without a single unintended pause in the action. ‘The Philadelphia’: a young man named Marcus has his life is turned upside down when he

realizes he can’t get anything he asks for, until his friend Al tells him he’s in a parallel universe called a Philadelphia––he merely needs to ask for the opposite of what he wants and all will be well. Meanwhile a waitress serves them cheesesteak. ‘Enigma Variations’: impressive choreography here, as two patients seek help from their doctors simultaneously. Lastly, ‘The Universal Language’: a young woman with a stutter seeks a man to help her learn the universal language known as Unamunda [one world––get it?]. You can find a complete glossary of terms on Wikipedia. ‘Welcome’ is velcro, and ‘English’ is, perhaps inevitably, ‘JohnClease.’ The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, in other words.

Impresario Matthew Harrison––seated front row centre––guffawed loudly throughout, as did newly-fledged director Calder Stewart [Blood Relations]––seated back row centre. The rest of us did too.

Inexplicably, there were empty seats in the theatre; a pity, since there was only one performance. Doubtless, had there been more shows, “the word” would have gotten out, and subsequent shows would have been, quite rightly, fully attended.

Most of the faces on-stage (and many off) were new to Bowen, as they are Vancouverbased students at The Foundry. Regrettably, many had conflicting projects on the mainland, hence the limitation to one performance only. These very talented young people managed to maintain full control of the manic pacing required of them. It was wonderful to see.

Best of all, perhaps, the Thompson twins already have another project in mind. It appears, thusly, that the next generation of producer/directors, and I’m thinking of Calder here as well, is at last making itself known on Bowen Island. What a thrill!

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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019 • 13

Not another man vs. the mountain movie SOUND WATER IS SCREENING AT THE B.I. CONSERVANCY AGM

PAULINE LE BEL Contributor

When explorer Drew Copeland and filmmaker Jon Chiang phoned me for advice on their mountain film, I thought I would never hear from them again. I suggested they refrain from making yet another “man conquers the mountain” movie. “We already have too many of those.”

Seems they agreed with me. The documentary, which will be shown at the Bowen Island Conservancy AGM on Nov. 23, is a thoughtful contemplation of the waters of Howe Sound/Atl’kitsem, as well as a spectacular mountain film. It’s clear Drew and Jon went on their adventure with open hearts, to discover where the waters come from and to understand how they are connected to that water.

Drew worked throughout Canada as a canoe guide and has been inspired by the Coast Mountains ever since he arrived on the west coast 10 years ago. His curiosity to see what lies over the next hill compels him to seek the less traveled terrain. Guided by his passion for the outdoors, he co-created a guiding-tourism enterprise––outdoor-explore.com––to share the beauty of these hills with others.

Jon, a director based in Vancouver, focuses on creating intimate and moving branded films for his clients. His previous short documentary The Lion was awarded the people’s choice award at the Vancouver Asian Film Festival. Sound Water is Jon’s first outdoor short documentary.

In Sound Water, a team of seven men and one woman ski the Elaho Range––the headwaters of the Squamish River and the top of the Howe Sound watershed.

“We love Howe Sound and were curious

to explore the region,” says Drew. “Being free of the struggles of keeping up with work life, and our digital connections, our minds and spirits fell open to new curiosities about this space and our place in it.”

After an exciting week in the alpine, Jon and Drew carried on exploring what it means to be in Howe Sound. They followed the course of water from its headwaters to the Salish Sea where they connected with Squamish Nation councillor Deanna Lewis in her kayak. Deanna, who has spent her life in and on the water, is now raising her family in Howe Sound.

Next they travelled to Bowen Island. Did I mention they asked me to be in the film?

Drew and Jon told me they were inspired by my book, Whale in the Door. The book is a cultural, environmental, and spiritual history of Howe Sound, and an honouring of the resilience of the land and the people.

They interviewed me in my home and by the lagoon.

“We hoped to find a closer relationship with nature and ourselves,” Drew tells me.

“And we were grateful to you and Deanna for sharing your stories and helping us to better understand the meaning of our adventure to the hills.”

Sound Water was shown last March at the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival, as well as in Whistler, Squamish and other locations, to appreciative audiences. Everyone is welcome at the AGM to see the film and there is no admission fee, although donations are appreciated.

The AGM begins at 1 p.m. Nov. 23 at BICS’ room 2. The film will be shown at 2 p.m.

The filmmakers will be in attendance and a Q&A will follow the screening. Come and be blown away by the spectacular nature of our magnificent fjord, your home.

BOWEN ISLAND ROTARY CLUB is pleased to present

Dwayne Matthews, Bowen Island’s long-term technology wizard, will speak on “Securing your e-life” Collins Hall, Nov 21, 7:30 pm

All are welcome.

The West Coast Symphony and guests chamber concert

Sunday Dec 15, 2 pm

LIGHT UP BOWEN

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 30TH 6:00 pm CATES VILLAGE SQUARE 6:30 pm LANTERN PARADE & the rest of the festivities!

FULL PROGRAM & list of DONORS in next weeks’ Undercurrent

Patient of the Week MEET FREYA Freya has been through many things in her life and fortunately she has amazing parents who have taken care of all her needs since rescuing her! Intermittent vomiting can be a sign of long-standing issues and an endoscope revealed that Freya had numerous ulcers in her intestinal tract. Her arthritis must now be managed with cartrophen injections to help relieve pain and improve mobility along with cold laser treatments. She is feeling a lot better and back at home with big sister Sasha!

HOURS: Tuesday through Friday from 9:00am – 5:00pm Saturdays from 9:00am – 1:00pm.

Dr. Midge Ritchie and veterinary assistants are also available 24/7 for urgent care.

Call the regular line at 604.947.9247 and press “1” to be forwarded to the doctor.

To schedule appointments, please call

604.947.9247

or email reception@bowenvet.com

Gathering OF THE SUGAR PLUM FAIRIES Come dressed as the

Sugar Plum Fairy We will gather next to the Snug Cafe after the LIVE NATIVITY. Listen to Tchaikovskys’ Flower Waltz.

Photo opportunities with Grandmother Clock, the Real SUGAR PLUM FAIRY, TOY SOLDIERS, SNOW KING & QUEEN

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Bowen Island Community

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INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008. Built with concrete posts. Barns, shops, riding arenas, machine sheds and more.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS Dr. Susanne Schloegl M.D.

Appointments Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri, 9am - 5pm ECG and HOLTER monitoring Artisan Square

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Bowen Island Chiropractic

Dr. Tracy Leach, D.C. Certified provider of Active Release Techniques Artisan Square Tues. & Fri.

778-828-5681

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Dr. Dana Barton

Naturopathic Physician 596 B. Artisan Square

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Mary Coleman, MSW, RSW Compassion minded counselling

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Celebrating 29 years

Registered Acupuncturist Registered Nutritionist

Julie Hughes, RPC

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778-858-2669

Community Healthcare

SOMATIC CENTRE

Psychologist

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Dr. Carolyn Nesbitt PhD, R.Psych #1484

Dr. Zandy’s former office

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Massage Therapy Matthew van der Giessen

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Registered Physiotherapist

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604-281-3691

On Bowen Island @ Caring Circle West Vancouver

Naturopathic Doctor

Courtney Morris, R.Ac

Artisan Square 604-947-0734

Horseshoe Bay 604-921-8522

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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 14 2019 • 15

Local volunteers learn post-disaster skills in emergency response exercise SOPHIE IDSINGA

Bowen Island Municipality

More than 20 volunteers gathered at the Bowen Island Community School last weekend to participate in an emergency response exercise.

The initiative was supported by Bowen Island Municipality and funded through a provincial Community Emergency Preparedness Fund grant.

This exercise provided a crucial training opportunity for Emergency Support Services (ESS) volunteers who are pre-

pared to help residents evacuated from their homes due to a fire, flood, earthquake, toxic spill or other disaster.

The emergency response exercise also gave Bowen Island Municipality an opportunity to test the Bowen Island Public Notification System (BowENS) for a callout of trained Emergency Support Services personnel. This preparation serves to minimize the confusion and disorganization that can follow an emergency or disaster.

In an actual emergency, evacuated families would be provided with desperately needed food, clothing and lodging at emergency reception centres, as designated by the Bowen

Island Emergency Program. A registration and inquiry service would also be set up at the reception centre to answer concerns from families and friends and to reunite families.

Emergency Support Services are made available through the Bowen Island Emergency Support Services team, supported in part by Emergency Management BC and Bowen Island Municipality.

If you are interested in learning more about Emergency Support Services, or would like to volunteer, please contact Carolyn McDonald, ESS Director for Bowen Island, at boweness@bimbc.ca.

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Duplicate Bridge Bowen Court 6:45 - 10 p.m.

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SATURDAY NOV. 16

Youth Power- next Level Snacks with Hudson Stiver Bowen Youth Centre 3-4:30 pm Ages 12 -15 $5 Pre-register at bowencommunityrecreation. com

The Harpoonist & the Axe Murderer Bowen Island Pub 8 pm to late with special guests Cannery Row. Advance tix at the pub. $20

FRIDAY NOV. 15 Dinner at the Legion Doors at 5:30. Dinner at 6:30 Members and guests welcome.

Friday Night Live at the Pub 7-10 pm Live music, dinner specials and no cover charge.

Youth Centre Drop-In

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Eat, Drink, Paint with Kathleen Ainscough Gallery at Cove Commons 6:30 - 930 pm Inspired by Tom Thomson's Autumn Birches. Register by phone

SUNDAY NOV. 17

The Key to Raising TroubleFree Kids & Teens Bowen Library 2 pm. Parent Educator and Bowen writer

Anne Andrew, PhD, presents on her book, The Key to Raising Trouble-Free Kids & Teens.

Meet at the picnic tables at the entrance to Crippen Park 11 am. No cost. More info at lisa.shatsky@gmail.com

Bowen in Transition Fix it Fair Collins Hall 1 -3 pm "Gather up your tired, weary, broken: clothing, electronics, bicycles, holey socks, sweaters, jeans etc.... and if you feel inclined to get in on the fixing yourself, please contact Shasta Martinuk at shastamartinuk@gmail.com."

Under One Sky Earth Songs Cates Hill Chapel 7 pm Tickets available at Phoenix $15 Adults $10 Students and Seniors

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BOWEN ISLAND HERITAGE PRESERVATION ASSOCIATION AGM

in cottage 20, Davies Orchard, Snug Cove.

Volunteers wanted to find new ways to celebrate, educate, activate and preserve the agricultural, architectural and cultural history of Davies Orchard.