Bowen Island Undercurrent December 12 2019

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REAL ESTATE GUIDE: see what’s hot on Bowen STARTS PAGE 7

Thursday, December 12, 2019 • 1

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2019

20 YEARS OF BIM: How

VOL. 45, NO. 50

BIUndercurrent

BowUndercurrent www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

did it all begin? Part 1 of our anniversary feature PAGE 3

Watch for frogs crossing MUNI MORSELS: FROG CROSSING, AFFORDABLE HOUSING & TAXES

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

The following are briefs from the Dec. 9 regular council meeting.

It was a dark and froggy night: Council

UNDERCURRENT PHOTO

BYE BYE FROM BIAC: Outgoing Hearth (Bowen Island Arts Council) executive director Jacqueline Massey receives

a lifetime BIAC membership, symbolized by the foldable chair, at her Hearth goodbye party Sunday evening. H.C. Behm (right) explained that BIAC events are frequently standing room only and so volunteers who’ve made extraordinary contributions of time receive a permanent seat at events (the chair). Betty Dhont, Carol Cram and Behm himself number among the small club of BIAC lifetime members. While Massey is a paid employee (or is until the end of December) Behm said that Massey worked many, many, many more hours than she was ever paid for, hence the honour. See more photos p. 14.

BIM hires director of engineering BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

Bowen Island Municipality has hired Patrick Graham as its new director of engineering.

In a press release Wednesday, BIM said that Graham worked as a senior engineer for the Metro Vancouver parks for 14 years and will start at BIM Jan. 20, 2020.

“The Director of Engineering is a key

member of the municipality’s senior management team who will oversee planning and maintenance of existing and new municipal infrastructure, including seven water supply systems, the water treatment plant, sewer treatment plant, roads, municipal parks and trail systems, beaches, docks, culverts, structures and solid waste disposal,” read the press release.

Graham will take over the position from the interim director contracted

from Urban Systems, Glen Skurhan.

Skurhan came to the position after longtime superintendent of public works Bob Robinson resigned late last spring.

“We are very pleased to welcome Patrick to the team at Bowen Island Municipality,” said Mayor Gary Ander in the press release. “His array of experience will serve us well with the projects and challenges that lie ahead of us.”

unanimously agreed to erect “frog crossing” signs on the Mt. Gardner Rd. around Killarney Lake. The signs are to warn drivers to watch out for frogs and other amphibians that frequently cross the road in spring and fall. The initiative is to cost $200.

Parks and Environment manager Bonny Brokenshire said that, all ribbiting aside, frogs and other amphibians are indicators of ecosystem health and need protecting.

Councillor Sue Ellen Fast noted that amphibian crossings could be a feature for Bowen Island. Councillor Michael Kaile wondered if there was a way to make the signage a seasonal feature (so put up the signs when the frogs are crossing en masse.

Ultimately council left the details of the signage up to Brokenshire.

New pads: Council is ticking off more boxes for the 27-unit rental housing project on the lot across from the museum (Area 1 of Lot 2).

Council unanimously passed first, second and third readings of a housing agreement bylaw. The agreement is a condition on BIM’s impending sale of the parcel of community land to D.K. Harris Properties Ltd. Under the agreement, all planned 27 units must be for rent, though only four must be “affordable rental units.” The annual rent on the “affordable” units cannot be more than 30 per cent of the BC Housing-determined Housing Income Limits (basically there’s an income threshold under which households are eligible for this housing and then the annual rent is set no higher than 30 per cent of this threshold.)

Bowen residents (have lived on-island for a year or more), permanent employees or retirees are to have priority access to the units.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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3 course plated a la carte dinner w/ VIP party tickets (includes champagne toast and party favours) {reservations required} {limited seating available}

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2 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

Event Calendar December 13, 2019 9:30 am Economic Development Commitee

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Committees needing members • •

December 24, 2019 12:00 pm

•

holiday break

January 2, 2020 8:30 am Municipal Hall OPEN

January 10, 2020 3:30 pm Mayor’s Standing Committee on Community Lands Meeting

January 13, 2020 6:15 pm

• • • • • • •

Advisory Design Panel – Meets approximately three times a year in the evening, usually Mondays.

Community Economic Development Committee – Meets monthly during the day, along with subcommittee projects.

Community Grants Advisory Committee – Meets approximately twice a year to advise on grant applications and policy.

Cove Bay Water System Local Advisory Committee – Meets approximately three times a year.

Environment and Climate Action Advisory Committee – Meets monthly in the evenings on Thursdays.

Housing Advisory Committee – Meeting monthly during the day.

Heritage Commission – Meets approximately four times a year.

Parks, Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee – Meets monthly in the evening on Tuesdays along with walkabouts.

Recreation and Community Services Commission – Meets approximately four times a year.

Transportation Advisory Committee – Meets monthly in the evenings on Tuesdays.

Regular Council Meeting

For more information or to download an applicaiton form please go to www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/committees

All meetings are held in Council Chambers unless otherwise noted.

Submit your application to bim@bimbc.ca by 4:00 pm on Thursday, January 13, 2020.

Happy 20th Anniversary, Bowen!

On December 4, 1999, Bowen Island Municipality was incorporated, and Council held its very first meeting.

20 years later, we are here in the seventh Council term.

Congratulations on 20 years as a Municipality! The only island Municipality in BC.

Bay Water Treatment Plant project?

Bowen Island Municipality has issued an Invitation to Tender for construction of the Cove Bay Water Treatment Plant. If you are a sub-trade operating on Bowen Island, and are interested in working on the Water Treatment Plant project, you can submit your information to be included in a list of local sub-trades that will be provided to the successful bidder.

Please note, submitting your information for this list does not guarantee that you will be contracted to work on the project.

The general contractor who is successful in the tendering bid will have full discretion over the hiring of sub-trades.

Please submit your information by Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 2:00 pm.

• • •

Online at www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/wtp E-mail Rachel Pryce-Jones, Public Works Coordinator at rpryce-jones@bimbc.ca Fax 604-947-0193 (Attn: Public Works)

December Holiday Hours

Boats on beaches Sandy Beach, Tunstall Beach and King Edward Bay Beach have racks available to store small self-propelled water craft.

• All small water craft must be clearly labelled with the owner’s name and phone number.

• Only one small recreational water craft per community member.

• Rack storage is limited to: boats, life jackets, oars, paddles and bailers.

• Fuel containers, propane tanks, seafood traps, and all other personal, household or construction items will be removed at the owner’s expense.

Please label your boats by February 1, 2020. Boats that are unlabeled, unseaworthy or not actively being used will be removed.

Questions? Please call Bylaw Services at 604-328-5499 or bim@bimbc.ca

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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

Are you interested in working on the Cove

Bowen Island Municipal Council is seeking members for the following advisory Committees:

Meeting

Municipal Hall closing for the

Calling local trades:

We thank all who served before us, staff and elected officials, and look forward to the next 20 years.

General Enquiries

Contact Us

Phone: Fax: Email:

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

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

Find us on Facebook Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday, excluding statutory holidays December 12, 2019

Bowen Island Municipality

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019 • 3

Winter of ‘99: when Bowen became a municipality PART ONE OF THE UNDERCURRENT’S TWO-WEEK EXPLORATION OF 20 YEARS OF MUNICIPAL GOVERNANCE ON BOWEN

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor

It was Ricky Martin’s “Livin’ La Vida Loca” atop the Canadian music charts in June 1999 as islanders headed to the polls decide if Bowen would become B.C.’s only island municipality.

Whether it was the crazy life or local control islanders were looking for, 60 per cent of voters (960 people) opted to incorporate. Five months later, Bowen elected its first mayor and council.

“The whole community came down to the old general store for the election results,” recalls then and still councillor Alison Morse.

For the first time, Bowen, boasting a population of just over 2,700, wouldn’t just elect two islands trustees and a Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) director but also six councillors and a mayor.

It was Lisa Barrett who would win the tight mayoral race that late November evening. The professional mediator had run as a federal Green Party candidate in 1997 but hadn’t participated in local civic politics (Islands Trust, GVRD or Restructure Committee) like her opponents and many of those vying for councillor seats. As a single mother of two young children (the patient youth attended many a council and GVRD meeting), and to-date Bowen’s only female mayor, Barrett would go on to lead the municipality through its first two terms and serve a third as a councillor. Barrett had also publicly stated during her campaign that she had voted against incorporation.

Some of Barrett’s concern with incorporation lay with the fiscal burden of becoming a municipality.

“The provincial government sent in their consultants to do the analysis and so I read through all of [the prospectus] and I thought what they’re talking about is enormously under estimating what the actual cost will be,” remembers Barrett, who edged out Terry Cotter of Restructure Committee (which had headed up the incorporation discussions) for the top job.

“When you think of all of those

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOWEN ISLAND MUNICIPALITY

Mayor Lisa Barrett at the podium is flanked by the municipality’s first councillors at the inaugural council meeting at the old general store (now library) Dec. 4, 1999. ministries, departments, the Islands Trust, the GVRD, the floors of technicians and planners and all those people who are working on these issues, and then we’re supposed to take that all on for a fraction of that cost, it just doesn’t make sense.”

Barrett wasn’t alone: the anti-incorporation contingent was a strong voice in the community.

Then-Islands Trustee Eric Sherlock wrote in the Undercurrent at the time that he was concerned that becoming a municipality could undermine the Islands Trust mandate and open Bowen to the growth pressures of mainland Vancouver.

Bob Turner, who had also publicly campaigned against incorporation during the referendum debates, won the most votes of any councillor in that first election. Turner would go to be a twoterm mayor.

Yet, for the pro-municipality side, not having to deal with the many layers of government of previous eras was the point.

“It’s a one stop shop now,” says Morse. Pre-BIM, land use planning was the domain of the Islands Trust; GVRD had parks, recreation, cove water and sewer, building permits and more; and the Ministry of Transportation and Highways looked after subdivision and roads. “There were all these different authorities and nobody necessarily talking with

one another,” remembers Morse.

The retired chartered professional accountant is currently serving her seventh term as councillor. No other Bowen mayor or councillor has served more than three terms.

Ross Carter, Peter Frinton (a three-term councillor), Alan Leigh and Richard Underhill were the other members of that first council.

In December 1999, while some prepared for Y2K, the newly elected crew of mayor and councillors prepared the foundations of their fledgling government.

Even before they were sworn in, Morse, the late councillor Ross Carter and interim municipal manager Rick Page were tasked with setting a provisional budget and a tax rate. They added up taxes that islanders paid preincorporation and the taxes they’d be paying post-incorporation and built the budget back from that.

“We told people in the restructure process that…it wasn’t going to cost us any more as a municipality,” says Morse.

Dec. 4, 1999, more than 100 people watched on at the old general store (today the Bowen Island Library) as the new council was sworn in and bylaws one, two and three, including the budget, passed.

Then the glamorous work of municipal governance began.

“The first council was a really interesting one because we didn’t

know what we were doing,” says Turner. “It was very, in many ways, apolitical because we were like a construction team. There were just things that had to be done and we had to work through them.

“It was just a lovely experience because nobody really had strong opinions about a lot of these things because we were just all learning.”

“The letters patent…gave us all sorts of instructions of things we had to do,” explains Morse.

Municipal control wasn’t immediate. Improvement districts for water, sewer and firefighting were the purview of other organizations and over the next three years they transferred assets and responsibilities to the fledgling government.

One first tasks for the young municipality was to set up a staff.

Three staff, including current building clerk Sandi Laudrum, transferred from GVRD to the new BIM. Kathy Lalonde, BIM’s current chief administrative officer, was an early hire as a clerk.

The new council hired Isabell Hadford as Bowen’s first CAO. Hadford had worked in local governance for about 18 years before but hadn’t ever set up a municipality.

“It was very basic to start with, we had no computers, we had no staff, we had nowhere to work out of,” laughs Hadford. BIM operated between the space above the library and the blue cottage that’s

now the Caring Circle and Tourism Bowen offices before renting the current location, the former Island Pacific School, just above Snug Cove. (Morse jokes that was the fastest rezoning council ever passed.)

BIM’s halcyon days did involve cultural learning curve for both Hadford and the new councillors. “I went in as my first council meeting, and I had met all of the counselors individually except for Dick Underhill,” recalls Hadford. Richard Underhill, at the time, lived on Finisterre Island.

Depending on the tide, Underhill would row, walk or wade onto the mainland.

“So the first night he arrived in his hip waders,” chuckled Morse, describing Hadford’s eyes going wide at the sight of Bowen’s sixth councillor.

“At the end of the meeting, one of the councilmen said, well, you know, maybe now you can dress more casually for these kinds of meetings,” says Hadford. “And I said, well, we are running a business here. And if we want people to take a seriously, I think we should dress appropriately.”

“The next time they came, they were a little bit more dressed in a little bit more business attire,” says Hadford.

Over the decades, the dress code has evolved into Bowen-formal.

One can still tell when off-island delegations are visiting (“the suits have arrived” jokes Morse)––“You try and give them a hint that you know, you don’t need to wear a tie,” laughs the councillor.

Hadford remembers the referendum to buy the Community Lands from the GVRD in 2005 as a turning point in local acceptance that this was now a municipality. The 80 per cent turnout and an overwhelming yes to buy the property were signs that BIM was slowly becoming just another part of island life. Hadford herself left the island a couple of years later and moved to Clearwater to help set up another budding municipality after the community incorporated in 2007.

After all the fear and hope surrounding a new era of governance on Bowen, what happened? Well, that’s a story for next week.

Think outside the big box.

Avoid the crowds, and do some of your holiday shopping at Bowen businesses.

Community Economic Development Committee

4 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

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VIEWPOINT EDITORIAL

Anniversaries The changes of 1999 will have nothing on the changes coming to Bowen’s future.

We’ve got a wild ride ahead, how will we fare?

For better or worse, Bowen Island Muncipality has navigated some monumental controversies and disputes over its 20 years, many of which are reappearing in community consciousness today.

When I was writing the 20th anniversary story I realized too much has happened to fit into one article. So next week I’ll look at some of these issues and what Bowen’s former and current leaders see for the future. Write in if you have comments!

Also next week is our “Bowen’s yearbook” edition. We’re looking for islanders’ and organizations’ accomplishments from the past 12 months. What have you published, released or won? How have you (or someone else) succeeded?

Email submissions to editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com by 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16. Submissions can range from a line up to 250 words.

Next week will be the Undercurrent’s last edition of 2019 (and of the decade).

Tracey and I are taking a break the week of Dec. 26, so we’ll be back Jan. 2, 2020.

On another note, I realized that as I was thanking people last week, I omitted the island’s and the paper’s dedicated cartoonist, Ron Woodall. I think I’d left Ron out because it’s both obvious and impossible to put into words how important he is for both the paper and the island.

I always feel priviledged that I get to see the week’s cartoon a couple of days before everyone else. Thank you Ron! — Bronwyn Beairsto, editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Use land sales to reduce debt BIRCH update: The following letter was initially submitted to BIM mayor and council: DEAR EDITOR: During 2019, Council agreed to the sale of two parcels of municipally held lands as well as entering into a long-term lease agreement for part of Lot 3 of Community with Bowen Island Resilient Community Housing, with development plans proceeding ahead.

The Community Lands were purchased from GVRD (Metro Vancouver) 15 years ago using borrowed funds through the Municipal Finance Authority. For 13 years interest only was paid, with the $2 million purchase cost carried as debt, converted to long-term debt by council resolution in 2018.

The council agenda for December 9, points to the effects of ever-increasing property tax burden and other ongoing expenses on local residents.

Item 8.2––presentation of Island Survey Results 2019, captures a widely varied set of responses to questions aimed at measuring customer satisfaction with municipal programs and services.

A recurring theme is that it is becoming very expensive for homeowners to live on Bowen Island, many long-term, and that the costs for social housing programs

MURRAY ATHERTON PHOTO

Part of the Little Red Church light display donated by Yvonne McSkimming to raise money for the foodbank. A donation box for monetary contributions is at the entrance to the churchyard.

should not be added to existing homeowners’ burden as a subsidy. One respondent pointed out that it had taken 25 years to pay his mortgage down, likely not uncommon among the long-time homeowners across Bowen.

Item 10a––Finance Advisory Committee minutes Nov. 20, 2019, tax update: the chief financial officer reported that 222 homeowners had deferred paying their property taxes for 2019, up from 198 in 2018, an increase of 15 per cent. The dollar value increased by 27 per cent year over year. And the 2020 budget process update: further, the CFO advised that staff had completed all of the budget request submissions and, as expected, requests outweighed ability to fund.

I would strongly recommend that all net funds received from the land sales and lease payments be deposited and used to reduce the capital amount of borrowing for the Community Lands.

These lands are only one of the longterm outstanding debt package being carried by the ratepayers on a year-to-year basis, above and beyond taxation, fees and charges for ongoing municipal operations.

Thank you for your attention and support.

—Bill Granger

Bowen Island Undercurrent Subscription Rates: Mailed 1 year subscription on Bowen Island: $45, including GST. Within Canada: $65 including GST Newsstand (Single Copy) $1 per copy, including GST ISSN 7819-5040

DEAR EDITOR: As this year comes to a close, Bowen Island Resilient Community Housing (BIRCH) would like to take a moment to say thank you to everyone in the community who has helped us along the way. It was a busy year for BIRCH. Our project had several important milestones this year: we secured a leasehold lot of community land on Miller Road, we received over $90,000 in grants towards the project and completed a feasibility report.

Looking forward to 2020 and next steps, we’re extremely excited to announce that we’ve selected our project architect, Boni Maddison Architects. Over the next few months we’ll work with BMA to develop schematic design plans for our first community housing project, and will share those as soon as we’re able to.

Again, thank you Bowen for all your support this past year. We wouldn’t be where we are today without your help.

Now, let’s flip that last calendar page and get to work on 2020!

Thank you, —Robyn Fenton Executive Director, BIRCH

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.

All Advertising and news copy content are copyright of the Undercurrent Newspaper. All editorial content submitted to the Undercurrent becomes the property of the publication.

The Undercurrent is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, art work and photographs.

#102–495 Bowen Trunk Road, PO Box 130, Bowen Island BC, V0N 1G0 Phone: 604.947.2442 Fax: 604.947.0148 bowenislandundercurrent.com DEADLINE for all advertising and editorial: Monday, 4:00 p.m.

architect hiring

National NewsMedia Council.

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.

If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Remembering Ida Goodreau Her natural habitat was the corporate world––a BC Businesswoman of the Year, executive or director or chair of national and international forestry and healthcare corporations and companies, a global life of board meetings, airports, and hotels, a large extended family with roots in southwest Ontario and branches everywhere, an avid collector of European travel experiences, particularly with family in Holland and friends in Switzerland.

Ida Goodreau also wanted to be a local, immersed in local concerns and she’d years ago chosen to be a local of Bowen Island. She wanted her last sight to be the view from her cozy Millers’ Landing cottage but the pancreatic cancer was too efficient to permit that. She died on Monday in Vancouver surrounded by her four sisters.

It was impressive that she found time to care about Bowen seniors by joining the board of the Snug Cove House Society and doubly impressive that she put such a quantity of her customary intensity, wide-ranging expertise and alarmingly incisive intellect into the dream for a supportive seniors’ residence

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Snug Cove House board director Ida Goodreau died earlier this week. on the island. The residence is not yet built but she survived long enough to see the plans submitted to the municipality for an initial assessment.

Her fellow Snug Cove House board members are devastated by her absence and infinitely grateful for the achievements and memories of her very substantial presence.

Graham Ritchie

BIM 20 years later: OCP respect and citizen control lacking

DEAR EDITOR: You have noted that this fall is the 20th anniversary of Bowen Island’s incorporation as a municipality, inviting reflections (November 28).

The decision to form a municipality in 1999 was strongly debated. Proposals had been rejected twice before during the previous 20 years and proponents waged a strong campaign in favour of incorporation. Their efforts were rewarded in the referendum, which favoured incorporating by a small margin.

Some supporters of municipal status simply wanted more development. However, many believed that a Municipality would put more control of Island affairs in the hands of residents.

On the other hand, those who opposed municipal status believed that it would lead to substantial development, ignoring Bowen’s well-established Official Community Plan. They predicted creeping urbanization and taxation to pay for it. Opponents also doubted control by citizens would increase, predicting instead that a bureaucracy would develop, largely excluding citizen input.

A snapshot of current issues on Bowen suggests that the opponents were correct: The OCP: while initial municipal councils respected

the Official Community Plan in zoning decisions, more recently, it has become routine for council to simply amend the OCP to allow greater development.

Urbanization: long-time islanders perceive it everywhere but the recently installed acre of blacktop and urban style roundabout on Cardena Drive leaves no doubt about the direction of the municipality. Anyone with doubts should take a look.

Citizen control: the municipal bureaucracy has grown over the years, and many decisions appear to be made with very little citizen input. Most recently, the municipality’s conflict with volunteer fire department, including threats and ultimatums from our mayor, has put our emergency services at risk. I don’t recall a single complaint about the volunteers’ response to fire or medical calls in the almost 50 years I have lived on the island. Nor did the municipality solicit public input, let alone agreement, before engaging in such behaviour.

Perhaps the good news is that the municipality is now in the process of evaluating its own performance. However, this is being done with no public input, as has become usual.

—John Rich Bowen Island

This season, pledge for health care access on Bowen Island DEAR EDITOR: As program director of the Caring Circle for the past five years I’ve seen far too many cases where our neighbours and friends have suffered poor health outcomes as a direct consequence of the limited access to health care on Bowen Island.

Some of these cases have been heartbreaking. They are the reason why I’ve been working with other members of the Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation to build a health centre on Bowen.

As a member of the foundation’s fundraising committee, I’ve also been privileged to experience how people in this community understand our need and are pulling together to make this project happen. This past week, two women in particular inspired me. One of them donated a cheque for $50,000, her first installment of a $200,000 pledge over four years. The other stopped by the Caring Circle to drop off $50 to add to our fund. Each in her own

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

From all of us at the Bowen Building Centre!

Bowen Building Centre would like to thank all our customers for their support over the last year.

Please come to our customer appreciation Friday Dec 20th from 11:00 a.m.To 5:00 p.m.

There’ll be lots of good eats and refreshments.

Bowen Building Centre’s Holiday hours Tuesday Dec. 24th Christmas Dec. 25th Boxing Day Dec. 26th Friday Dec. 27th Saturday Dec. 28th Monday Dec. 30th Tuesday Dec. 31st New Years Day Jan. 1st Thursday Jan. 2nd Friday Jan. 3rd Saturday Jan. 4th

THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019 • 5

7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Closed Closed 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Closed 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

way struck me as wonderful examples of the caring and generous nature of Bowen Islanders.

These donors understand what a profound difference the health centre will make to our health security and quality of life. Not just for you, your family, your friends and neighbours, but for everyone––including the less fortunate. We all will benefit and we all need to play our part to make it happen. A health centre is a vital social and economic asset to a resilient community.

This season, for the first time, we are going directly to everyone in the community to ask for your pledge. You may have seen our mailer in your mailbox. Go to our website at bowenhealthfoundation.ca––hit the “pledge/ donate now” button––and give like your health depends on it. On behalf of your community, thank you for your generosity and have a wonderful holiday season!

—Colleen O’Neil Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation

6 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

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Remembering those we have loved and lost LORRAINE ASHDOWN & CO.

Contributor

Christmastime is meant to be a season when friends and family gather to share laughter, food and drink and count their many blessings.

But, this is not the case for everyone. Grief and sadness can also play a role at this time of year.

Many of us remember those we have loved and lost in the past year, or several years, and we find our longings for their presence intensifies at this time of year.

To help us live with this reality, some of us have created an evening to “Honour A Life”––to gather and to remember those we have loved and lost. On Thursday, December 19, we shall gather at The Cove Commons at 7 p.m. We will hear readings from a variety of faith traditions: Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Indigenous and perhaps more. After the readings, we will proceed outside carry candles and place a blue ribbon on the nearby Remembering Tree.

All are welcome to participate in this ritual on one of the darkest nights of the year as we stand together to hold one another’s grief.

After our visit to the tree, we will head back to the Cove Commons to hear Bowen’s Threshold Singers, led by Shasta Martinuk and the men’s Crossing Over Choir, led by Brian Hoover.

These singers regularly offer songs designed to provide comfort and care at bedsides or any situation involving a difficult life transition.

We will also enjoy some tea and refreshments.

All are welcome. If you have any questions, please contact Lorraine Ashdown at lorraineashdown@gmail.com. Wishing all deep peace at this time of year.

‘Grief is not a disorder, a disease or a sign of weakness. It is an emotional, physical and spiritual necessity, the price you pay for love. The only cure for grief is to grieve.”––Earl Grollman

The Nature Club needs your help counting birds THE INITIATIVE IS PART OF THE 120TH ANNUAL AUDUBON CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT, THE LONGEST-RUNNING CITIZEN SCIENCE BIRD CENSUS IN THE WORLD

PAM DICER

Bowen Nature Club

From December 15 to January 5, tens of thousands of volunteers throughout the Americas take part in an adventure that has become a family tradition among generations. Families and students, birders and scientists go out on this annual mission, complete with binoculars, bird guides and checklists. The desire to both make a difference and to experience the beauty of nature has driven dedicated people to leave the comfort of their warm houses.

Each citizen scientist (that’s you) who annually braves snow, ice, wind or rain, makes an enormous contribution to conservation. Audubon, Cornell Lab of Ornithology and many other organizations use data collected in this longest-running wildlife census to assess the health of bird populations and to help guide conservation action. It is (or should be) consulted by various levels of government when deciding if development is feasible or not.

Bowen’s contribution to the Christmas Bird Count will be on Saturday, January 4, 2020 and the Bowen Nature Club invites you to take part. The more pairs of eyes and ears the better. Bowen is part of the

A barred owl watches Jen Ludin Ritchie in Fairy Fen. Howe Sound Count Circle, a 15-mile radius taking in other nearby islands, Lions Bay and some of West Vancouver.

Your level of bird expertise matters not––it’s an opportunity to improve your knowledge by teaming up with someone more experienced. Participation during any daylight hours you can spare would be welcome or you can stay home and count the birds at your feeder. It is best to start early because the light can begin to fail as early as 2:30 p.m. Forms, maps and protocol will be provided.

Another way to contribute is that if you have significant bird habitat on your property (this includes wetlands, shoreline and open grassland or farm), let us know if you don’t mind having a birder access these areas to include them in the count.

We would also like to put a call out for a boat to capture Paisley, Worlcombe, and

JEN LUNDIN RITCHIE PHOTO

Ragged Island, which are technically in our area as well. These islands haven’t been included in the past few years and it’s a shame we’re missing them. As these islands are privately owned, we can’t dock on them but we can certainly bird from a boat nearby.

If you have any interest in any of these activities, please contact Micaele Florendo at (604) 838-2321 and she will fill you in.

Just in case you are wondering: no, I haven’t returned to Bowen, not even for a visit over Christmas but I do miss you all and taking part in the count. The U.K. winter count is simple compared to the North American––it only requires an hour of my time on one day.

I wish you fun, fair weather and fab birds (with the climate breaking down, there is more chance of something unusual being seen.)

Patient of the Week MEET WINSTON

BOOK A TOUR

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

MATTERS

ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

CELEBRATING YEARS

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Meet Winston the bunny and his canine companion, Ireland!

Winston recently came in for a mandibular abscess which is more often than not caused by dental disease. As you can see, they are giving each other a little cross-species TLC.

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

islandpacific.org

or email reception@bowenvet.com

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019 • 7

• WINTER 2019 •

BOWEN ISLAND real estate guide • what sold what’s next

s$'($)"* P'#k • 1652 a%'m! r&'% NEW LISTING

Fully renovated inside and out, this West Coast-style home blends into the natural surroundings of this park-like property. Vaulted ceilings on the main floor, with an open plan LR, DR and Kitchen that opens on to a large wrap around and partially-covered south facing deck. The 340 sf upstairs is a versatile space presently used as a master bedroom/office/hobby area. A detached studio/office sits on the lower part of the property, and there is a large cistern for water maintenance and control. Access to Sealeigh Park Beach - one of Bowen’s favourites.

1652 Adams Road

$858,000 TOP PRODUCING REALTOR on Bowen Island since 2009 President’s Club 2015, 2017 & 2018 for Top 1% of Realtors in the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver

11 years

604.612.7798

bowenhomes.ca

8 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

1130 Miller

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

892 Schooner

1291 Oceanview

Bowen’s best deal. With its unique roof lines, this charmer exudes character. Easy walking distance to the amenities of Snug Cove and the Ferries. The cozy main floor features an open plan kitchen, living and dining room, as well as an additional flex room space - all surrounding a freestanding propane stove that can be used to heat the whole house. Follow the winding staircase up to two bedrooms and the second bathroom. The fenced-in yard features a separate 180 sf studio, office or sleeping cabin, along with sheds for storage and private decks both front and back.

This very special one of a kind home offers a unique Bowen experience and opportunity. Cute and cozy, this circular home is built like a yurt and is sited to take advantage of striking and expansive ocean and sunset views over Keats Island, and the Sunshine Coast.

The inside open plan is functional and fun. Use it while you build a new home or turn it into your own escape from the city.

This is property has loads of potential. Wrapped by forest, it is private and quiet consisting of flat benches on a slightly sloped .8 acres. A three bedroom, one bath home is located at the bottom of the property - a fixer upper with plenty of charm. At the top of the property sits a partially finished 2 car garage/workshop. Views to Black Mountain and a peek-a-boo view of the ocean below.

Close to the ferry and Snug Cove. Co-list with Frazer Elliott.

$699,000

$699,000

$739,000

1244 Miller

879 Windjammer

921 Fairway Lane

Rosebank Cottage - a special Bowen property with a long history dating back over a century. This classical and quaint 3 bedroom cottage sits on 0.44 acres close to Millers Landing Beach. The home centres around an oversized living room and features a covered deck that will become the focal point of your summers The cottage and garden are waiting to be restored to its original glory or a project to start anew.

Minutes walk to 3 of the Islands best beaches. This tastefully renovated Bluewater charmer boasts vaulted ceilings, framing a wall of glass for awe-inspiring view of the Salish Sea, coastal islands and the mountains beyond. Enjoy relaxing summer sunsets over the water in the summer and the reflective light on the snow capped mountains in winter.

A designer eye and attention to detail come together in this impeccable home. A new renovated separate guest suite with 3 piece bath to use for company or as a cozy BnB.

Basking in all day sun on Bowen’s south shore, this tasteful and immaculate 7 year old home is perched above the golf course’s 8th hole. Home Warranty still in effect. Main floor features an open plan living room, dining room and a gourmet kitchen with a BlueStar 6 burner stove and three bedrooms above with premium finishings throughout including German Hardwood flooring and wool carpeting.

Sundeck off the master bedroom, and covered patio space below – each with views across the Salish Sea. Outside offers a maintenancefree, fenced-in play space for kids. Close to beaches and trails.

$769,000

$849,000

$999,800

871 Valhalla

921 Forecastle

464 Melmore

At the top of Valhalla where the Howe Sound views are unsurpassed from Black Tusk in the North, to Vancouver and beyond in the South. This is a large family home built with space to call your own. On the main entry level is an open plan living & dining room and kitchen. Down one floor to the master bedroom and 2 other bedrooms and then to the garden level with a large recreational/office, high ceiling studio and the 4th bedroom.

Trails to the Cove and more trails through the Ecological Reserve close by give great satisfaction to the nemophilists among us.

WATERFRONT This immaculate Panabode offers complete privacy and serenity. Sited on 2.28 acres of west facing Bowen waterfront, views of Pasley & Keats Island with the Sunshine Coast beyond. Inside features an open plan DR/LR opening out onto a wrap-around deck, two bedrooms, and plenty of log-home charm. Take your pick of nearby swimming options - the property is directly above the south end of Crayola Beach, or a short walk down the road to Clipper Beach.

Evergreen Hall is a well maintained and updated private home (4400 sf), presently known as Evergreen Guest House and Events Hall.

Located in Deep Bay, with a short walk to Snug Cove Village and the Ferry. Easy walks to Pebbly and Sandy Beaches, with stunning ocean and mountain views of Howe Sound. This property is a popular destination for both Bowen Islanders and off Island tourists, hosting many special occasions, business meetings, workshops and retreats.

A truly special, one-of-a-kind find on Bowen Island, with historical charm and many options for the creative mind.

$1,299,000

$1,588,000

$1,679,000

604.612.7798 Dee Elliott

Personal Real Estate Corporation

For more information on individual listings go to bowenhomes.ca

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019 • 9

Cloudy with silver linings. Clearing anticipated.

TIMOTHY RHODES Four Metro Vancouver municipalities have typically out-performed their neighbours over the past year. Bowen Island, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, and Langley City have shown the highest positive increases in the year-over-over MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) when measured over the last two years, although each saw a decrease monthly from June 2019 forward. Bowen Island showed the best performance in every month except February 2019, when it placed second. All statistics are for detached homes.

“MLS® HPI measures the rate at which housing prices change over time taking into account the type of homes sold [...] This type of pricing model involves estimating the price of a property’s features rather than the property itself.” (rebgv.org/newsarchive/mls-home-price-indexexplained.html) The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver’s (REBGV) aggregate

HPI is down -11.1 per cent from its peak in June 2018, and -2.2 per cent from November 2016. Bowen Island’s HPI is down only -2.1 per cent from its peak (March 2019) and up 33.6 per cent from November 2016.

HPI for all municipalities continues to trend down as of November 2019 with Bowen consistently demonstrating the lowest decrease in YoY MLS® HPI since July 2019.

The resilience of the four communities is not unexpected because they have some of the lowest prices for detached homes in the Lower Mainland, and government policies like the mortgage stress test have moved buyers to these markets. There were 43 sales on Bowen Island YoY ending 30 November 2019.

Twenty-three per cent sold under $800,000, 60% sold under $1 million, and no homes were sold for over $1.5 million.

Average sale price Bowen Island

Nov 2019

Nov 2018

2019

2018

2019

2018

Per cent change in MLS®Home Price Index YoY at 30 November 2019 Comp paringg Bo owen,, Maaplee Rid dge, Pittt Meeadows, and d Laanggleey Citty

-3.7% 24.4% -7.4% 27.0% -4.9% 24.6%

BOWEN ISLAND PITT MEADOWS LANGLEY CITY MAPLE RIDGE

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Overall performance of Bowen’s HPI is the silver lining, but cloudy conditions continue in the market.

YoY and YtD dollar volume, number of sales, and median and average sales price are down significantly, while the number of Bowen Island YoY Statistics @30 November 2019 • MLS®HPI: $976,650 • Median Price: $940,000 • Average Price: $1,002,108 @31 October 2019 • MLS®HPI: $985,800 • Median Price: $940,000 • Average Price: $1,010,52

Data represents the MLS® detached home data only as at 30 November 2019. Data source © 2019 BC Northern Real Estate Board, Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board, Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, and Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver. All rights reserved. Data deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Perched just below its peak, Cates Hill’s Rivendell Heights is the newest addition to the neighbourhood. Enjoy the convenience of flat and easy build sites, with sewer already to the lot line. The view is framed by Mt Gardner and Mt Collins, and looks out over Killarney Lake towards Gambier Island and northern Howe Sound - a vista that is unique on Bowen. Right next to the trail down to Artisan Square, within walking distance of the school, and close to all the amenities that Snug Cove has to offer, including shops, restaurants and the ferry.

Address

December 2017 - November 2019 -2.1% 33.6%

PEAK VALUE

C O N T R I B U TO R

Price (Including GST)

Price (Excluding GST)

Lot 1

901 Rivendell Drive

$ 450,000

$ 428,571

Lot 2

899 Rivendell Drive

$ 440,000

$ 419,048

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PEAK VALUE MO. TO 30 NOV 2019 YoY 30 NOV 2016 TO 30 NOV 2019

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days on market is up.

An REBGV News Release on December 3, 2019, reported that sales of detached homes in November 2019 were up 59.9 per cent from November 2018. It’s and encouraging sign; however, real estate trends tend to track several months behind on Bowen, so Islanders may not see a similar uptick until late spring of 2020.

Those interested in purchasing a home may see what advantage buyers have in the current market being eroded as we move into 2020 while for sellers, patience is a virtue.

Timothy Rhodes, REALTOR®

Angell Hasman & Associates, Realty, Ltd. www.rhodesonbowen.com/blog-main

SOLD

SOLD

Offer Pending

COMING SOON Lots plus new home packages starting at $879,000

Evergreen Estates - Phase 1 279 Jason

$499,000

Close to the Cove, and in a quiet setting. This 1/3rd acre building lot is largely flat, with a unique rock outcrop on the property’s southwest corner. A perfect property for the avid gardener, as the yard gets sun throughout the day. Views of the North Shore Mountains to the east, and a filtered view of the ocean to the south. Drilled well in place. Needs septic approval.

1620 Evergreen 1630 Evergreen

$599,000 $515,000

These property’s are ridge lots with an ocean view of Collingwood Channel, over Keats Island to the mountains on the Sunshine Coast. Close to a network of trails through the forest and an easy walk to Bowen Bay beach. Close to Aarons field. Green Build and building scheme applicable.

347 Aerie Tree

$668,000

Surrounded by Crown Land on two sides, this picturesque bare land property provides complete privacy for the ideal family island estate. There is a sun-soaked, flat and established build site, with a south-facing ocean view that reaches all the way over the southern Gulf Islands to the mountains of the Olympic Peninsula. Featuring terraced landscaping and access, water and power to the build site already in place. A second, unserviced potential build area sits lower on the property.

1802 Emily Lane King Edward Bay

$929,000

Bowen Island offers some of the most beautiful West Coast ocean scenery to be found anywhere in British Columbia. So close and yet so far from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis of Vancouver.

Its only a 20 minute ferry ride away but enough time to transition from city life to Bowen tranquility. This property is one of the last remaining undeveloped lots in King Edward Bay and epitomizes the best of Bowen with views over Collingwood Channel, Pasley Islands and the Sunshine Coast. Services at the lot line and one lot back from the waterfront. The building site is located on a flat bluff prepped to build. A short walk to King Edward Bay beach.

For more information on individual listings go to http://www.bowenhomes.ca

10 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

FRANCES FROST & FELICITY BUSKARD bowenislandrealestate.info

604.947.9090 RE/MAX Crest Realty - Bowen Island

2016/2017

wwv w

PRIVATE WATERFRONT

1429 Eaglecliff Rd

WATERFRONT BUILDING LOT

$2,400,000

214 Finisterre Rd

$869,000

1820 Cape Drive

$3,580,000

118 ACRES TO BUILD YOUR DREAMS

Lot 19 Smugglers Cove Rd

$2,600,000

Thank you Bowen Island for your continued trust and loyalty!

Our Remax Office acted as either Buyer’s Agent or Seller’s Agent for all the properties listed below in 2019 on Bowen Island, AND several on Gambier as well!

1320 Oceanview Road

$695,000

1153 Senator Road

1308 Chevy Chase Lane

$699,000

831 Taylor Road

$1,075,000

1205 Adams Road

$799,000

962 Windjammer Road

$875,000

1605 Whitesails Drive

$1,149,000

1344 Eaglecliff Road

$895,000

1104 Harding Road

$1,149,000

1250 Miller Road

$899,000

101 Baker Road

$1,229,000

1612 Whitesails Drive

$899,000

1710 Woods Road

$1,599,000

949 Spyglass Road

$912,000

1727 Bowen Bay Road

$1,488,000

653 Cliff Road

$935,000

839 Seymour Bay Drive

$1,488,000

$995,000

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019 • 11

Bowen Island Properties LP SUMMARIZING A CHAT WITH WOLFGANG ABOUT “THE SHIRE” Back in 2014, I was excited to see Wolfgang Duntz and Bowen Island Properties (BIP) pitch a vision for what they called “Parkview Slopes.”

I have been wondering, almost ever since, what happened to this plan.

During the past few months I’ve learned that the dream is still alive. It has shifted quite a bit, and has been renamed “The Shire” to fit in with other Tolkienesque landmarks on Cates Hill.

Plans for “The Shire” here on Bowen (located between Rivendell Retreat and Leigh Automotive) see it as being in the middle of things: walking distance to Artisan Square, Snug Cove, the ferry and schools.

Wolfgang says: “The aim for the Shire is to provide a range of affordable housing options—primarily rental apartments (studios, 1- and 2-bedrooms) and 3-bedroom townhouse-style units. A high percent will be “non-market rental” (i.e., subsidized), with the balance rented at mar-

Park

Deep Bay

AG ED R

D ER R MILL

Crippen Park

NORTH

B

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Community School

Cates Hill Estates D

Rivendell Retreat

B.I. TRUNK RD

Ferry



Cates Hill Village

RIVENDELL DR

Snug Cove

VIL L

Crippen Park

DORMAN RD

DORMAN RD

THE SHIRE

GRAF TON RD

Leigh Auto

Crippen Park

AN UPDATE FROM THE MARKETING TEAM As 2019 closes out the end of a decade, it brings an opportunity to reflect on accomplishments during the past 10 years. We can proudly look back, knowing that we have created over 60 homes for families throughout the communities of Cates Hill and Cowan Point. We have also worked diligently on ways to create new neighbourhoods within these communities to take in the varying demographics and life stages of both current and future Bowen Islanders, something our rezoning team remains focused on.

We, the marketing team, would like to take this opportunity to let you know what we have been busy with and what you can expect for 2020.

Rivendell Heights on Cates Hill. This 12-lot subdivision is the newest addition to the Cates Hill neighbourhood. Located at the top of Cates Hill, it enjoys panoramic views and is within walking distance to schools, Artisan Square, and the many amenities of Snug Cove.

Development of the first 5 lots is complete, the first 2 lots are sold and a third sale is pending. Home + Lot packages will be available soon for the remaining lots with package prices for a 2-bedroom + den home starting at $879,000 (including GST) and 3-bedroom + den home starting $1,023,000 (including GST).

Seymour Shores at Seymour Landing. The first two of three waterview homes at our waterfront community of Seymour Shores are under construction. These homes are perched above Seymour Bay and enjoy stunning ocean and city views. Construction of these homes is near-

Since 1988, building communities where people love to live

ket rates. A smaller percentage of the same housing variety will be “For Sale” and occupied (or rented out) by their owners.

He says BIP has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lookout Housing and Health Society to help make it happen. “Lookout will bring extensive experience in designing, financing and managing this kind of development,” says Wolfgang, “a kind of development where my partners and I feel out of our depth.”

He continues: “In our thirty years of working on Bowen Island, our best moments have come from seeing people make homes out of the houses we’ve helped to build. The Shire, however, symbolizes a major shift in our work—one we are happy to embrace in our ongoing efforts to keep building community on the island we call home.”

THE BIG UNKNOWN: HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? Wolfgang wants to sound some caution because he thinks there are major challenges ahead for “The Shire.”

The most obvious challenge is the readiness and timeliness of Municipal Council to grant the necessary zoning at a time when many projects in and around Snug Cove are already on the table.

Another worry is the nagging question about whether Snug Cove will have the needed sanitary sewer treatment capacity to serve all the new development projects. If capacity is assured, then BIP will make best efforts toward developing “The Shire.” If sewer capacity is not assured, then BIP will focus on providing similar “rental” and other alternative housing options on “Josephine Ridge” at Cowan Point (the hillside above the golf course’s 7th fairway) until the Shire is ready. — Meribeth Deen

ing completion and they will be released to the market in early 2020.

Designs for the third water-view home are also underway.

In addition to these three water-view homes, we have one spectacular waterfront lot for sale for $1,158,000 + GST. This low-bank waterfront property enjoys southeast exposure and has unobstructed views into Seymour Bay, and toward Vancouver and English Harbour. This lot is ready for your custom design to be built by your builder or by us.

CONCEPT—NEW HOMES AT SEYMOUR SHORES

We wish you and your families the happiest of the holiday season and all the best for 2020. — The Marketing Team Office Phone: 604-947-0099 Marketing Inquiries: 604-947-0000 www.bowenislandproperties.ca PAID ADVERTISEMENT

12 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

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2019 Lights on Bowen

A special thanks to the merry map makers Freyja and Merewyn.

For more info, map link, or a 2020 light map submission please email lightsonbowen@gmail.com

GREG IS SO CHEAP...

967 Captain Cates Walk • $918,000

…HE DID NOT BUY A BIG ENOUGH AD TO LET US FULLY DESCRIBE EVERYTHING HE DID FOR US. HE WAS GENEROUS WITH HIS GUIDANCE, PATIENT AND UNDERSTANDING DURING A COMPLEX HOUSE PURCHASE. DAVID OVERTON AND CAROLINE WIGGINS HAPPY HOME OWNERS

GREG BOSWORTH REALTOR©

YOURBOWENHOME.CA 604 340 8056 GREGB@SUTTON.COM

Enjoy the easy commute and convenience of living close to the Cove, yet still while being immersed in Bowen’s quiet forests surrounding Cates Hill. This 2-3 bedroom, flexible family home is moments away from shops, restaurants and the ferry, as well as Crippen Park. The main floor features a recently-redecorated kitchen, and an open plan LR and DR that spills out on to a sunny deck. Upstairs is currently a master suite, but could also be a den, and below offers two bedrooms, one with a walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. Untapped garden/yard potential from a cleared, flat terrace below the home means lots of room for the kids to play.

Specializing in BOWEN ISLAND and HOWE SOUND

FRAZER ELLIOTT REALTOR®

604.910.3401 felliottbowen@gmail.com www.bowenhomes.ca

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

“I already know what I like to do, and I’ve found a place where I get to do it.”

To learn about Pat’s story and active aging life at Tapestry, visit DiscoverTapestry.com or call 604.225.5000 to schedule a personal visit and complimentary lunch.

www.DiscoverTapestry.com Tapestry at Wesbrook Village 3338 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver BC 604.225.5000 ®Registered Trademarks of Concert Properties Ltd., used under license where applicable.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019 • 13

Timothy Rhodes REALTOR®

R O B

RHODES ON BOWEN

604-341-9488

tim@rhodesonbowen.com www.rhodesonbowen.com

527 Collins Lane

$2,990,000

WALK TO THE FERRY, SCHOOLS, AND SHOPPING

6657 sq. ft. designed for family and entertaining, this awardwinning architectural design overlooks a sunny, 4-acre, parklike setting with sports pool, detached suite, barn, workshop, and orchard. Level entry with master suite on main and upper floor.

503 Collins Lane $988,000

WALKING DISTANCE TO SNUG COVE, THE FERRY, SCHOOL, AND BEACHES, AND BORDERING ON CRIPPEN PARK This very private, sunny, mountain-view property is a 3-acre lot with a drilled well, approval for septic, two building sites with a building permit for a carriage house/ detached suite, and roughed-in driveways and utilities.

Happy Holidays

Wishing you a happy holiday season and a joyous New Year from all of us at First Credit Union! *Please see firstcu.ca for our holiday hours.

firstcu.ca

14 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

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BOWEN BEAT

Posting trails

Bowen Island Trail Society in collaboration with Bowen Trails Coalition partners has made some great progress on the Mount Gardner navigation improvement project over the past few weeks and weekends. Over the past two weekends teams of volunteers have worked to dig holes, procure and prepare posts and install the posts on the mountain. We have so far installed 10 red cedar posts at key intersections with a focus on the Skid Trail as the means of primary hiker access to the summits.

––Phil Osborne, Bowen Island Trail Society

Jes Slater playing with fire and the Shou Sugi Ban method of preserving wood (Photo: Alicia Hoppenrath)

Andy Hoppenrath treats the base of a cedar signpost with the Shou Sugi Ban method which involves burning the surface of the wood and sealing it with an oil. (Photo: Alicia Hoppenrath)

Rachel Canning and Lisa Holleman show off their work (Photo: Phil Osborne)

Above: Emilie Kaplun, Carol Cram and Cindi Keep at Jacqueline Massey’s BIAC goodbye party.

Right: Joyce Ganong embraces Massey after giving a short speech.

Jacqueline Massey (centre right in green) enjoying Marc Gawthrop’s adapted musical treat (unfortunately the Undercurrent correspondent cannot remember what the adapted song was––strains involved “Irreplaceable...you’re so irreplaceable.”)

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More Muni Morsels: Snug Cove House and active design guidelines

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Long time coming pads: For more than 20 years, the Snug Cove House Society (formerly Abbeyfield) has worked for supportive housing for seniors on Bowen.

Monday, council saw plans for the 22-unit building on Miller Rd. The society is applying for variance permits to increase the allowable lot coverage from 55 per cent to 65 per cent and some variances to setback, including to accommodate the underground parking. Council voted unanimously and with little debate to give notice that it would be considering issuing the permits.

Coordinating lilies and pads: Council adopted an

active design guidelines policy. The guidelines provide developers and BIM with basic ideas to keep in mind when designing growth. Active living and wellbeing are

THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019 • 15

central to the document, which is intended to guide through planning, subdivision and building. (If one is simply building a house, one skips to the building portion of the policy.) It includes four tenets: building and site design, development patterns, parks and open spaces, and transportation and mobility. The document suggests considering density, walking routes, car-free capacity, outside lighting, versatile spaces, downplaying parking, driveway safety, age-friendly and accessible parking, attractive stairs and community gardening. There’s a handy-dandy checklist at the end of the document for developers.

Pad satisfaction: Eighteen per cent of Bowen adults (523 people) responded to BIM’s 2019 Island Survey.

The survey found slightly lower ratings for overall quality of life (4.41 out of 5, a weighted average that was down from 4.45) but overall results were similar to the survey circulated in 2017. A notable difference was the importance of diverse housing types went from 3.97/5 down to 3.75/5 and satisfaction with (housing) affordability rose from 2.09/5 to 2.32/5. Councillors and staff noted in discussion that in the last survey 17.7 per cent of respondents were renters while in the 2019 iteration only 13.23 per cent were renters. The survey asked about quality of island life, households, municipal

SHARI ULRICH

Everyone’s relationship with Christmas seems to be complicated mix of expectations and emotions. Personally, I wasn’t raised in any religion, so its meaning has always been about the gathering of family and the giving of gifts.

But of course it runs deeper than that with our rich familial connections with parents, children, spouses, grandchildren, ex-spouses and all manner of friends and relatives and our unique warm (and yummy) traditions that have woven their way though through our lives. I love the Christmas holiday. I love that the western world seems to stop for a week and hunker down together and relax. I love sleuthing gifts that I know will bring joy to my loved ones and, okay, mostly I love the twinkly lights! Such a simpleton!

My personal relationship with the Christmas Story is as

Paying for pads: a tax update to the Finance Advisory

Committee from financial officer Shayle Duffield says that BIM had 227 tax deferrals in 2019, up from 198 the year before. The deferral value is a $190,000 increase over the previous year.

on Bowen Island

CLOUDFLOWER CLAYWORKS

Contemporary take on Christmas story comes to town Dec. 21 Contibutor

services, transportation, emergency preparedness, housing and the local economy. The summary of results includes comparisons with the last survey and has 58 pages of written comments from islanders.

a colourful fable, but of course, for much of the world it is deeply rooted in their religious faith. So when I considered joining two exceptional musicians (Russ Rosen and Brit Graham Ord) and another Brit–– the wonderful storyteller Justyn Rees, in their seventh year presenting “Christmas Tales” in churches and venues throughout B.C., I was taking my own little leap of faith that it would be a good experience for this heathen. And I’m so glad I did. Justyn has created a very funny contemporary take on the Christmas Story, which is woven with both original songs and traditional carols. Though the show is aimed at adults with its humour, it is certainly entertaining for children as well.

I couldn’t help but want to bring it to Bowen so we will be performing Christmas Tales at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 21 at Tir-na-nOg Theatre. Tickets are $22 and available at Phoenix Books and The Hearth as well as on line at BigTreeShows.eventbrite.com.

presents a show of local painter Gregg Simpson’s acrylic paintings, all reasonably priced and lots of new pottery including recent student work.

Pop in for some Pottery ornaments for the tree.

Hours are 12-4 pm. • Monday to Sunday.

Open Boxing Day.

604-947-2522

The West Coast Symphony and guests chamber concert

Sunday Dec 15, 2 pm

NOW OPEN 102-555 PROMETHEUS PL LOWER ARTISAN SUSTAINABLE SUPPLIES & REFILLS CANADIAN MADE GOODS

HOUSEHOLD SUPPLIES/ PERSONAL CARE ITEMS VEGAN OPTIONS/GIFTWARE OPEN TUES - FRI 3-6 AND SAT 9-4

www.bowengymnastics.com

PH: 604-341-2788

16 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

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I've got my island to keep me warm

UNION STEAMSHIP COMPANY STORE IN THE COVE

The most wonderful time of year is here and we have that special treasure for everyone on your list - unique stocking stuffers, stylish home decor and maritime classics! We look forward to seeing you this holiday season.

DOC MORGAN’S RESTAURANT & PUB IN THE COVE

THE GALLERY AT COVE COMMONS

Share the gift of arts and culture with someone special this Christmas: concert tickets, a workshop, a book, or a handmade creation from It’s A Wrap at the Gallery @ Cove Commons. Gift Certificates available. www.thehearth.ca

OUT OF THE BLUE BOUTIQUE IN THE COVE

Traditional pub fare and that little bit more! Daily lunch and dinner specials plus festive treats beginning December 15th. And don’t forget Martinis with Santa Friday December 13th. Catch him before he gets really busy!

Apart from fabulous clothing other great gifts include - cards, Voluspa Candles, hats, scarves, jewelery, fun socks, Papaya bags & accessories.

30 % off Fall and Winter clothing sale on now. Open 10 – 6 daily

PHOENIX IN VILLAGE SQUARE

FABULOUS FINDS ON BOWEN IN THE COVE

Spend the Holidays playing games and doing puzzles with the whole family! Puzzles and board games for all ages - Throws, Candles, and Picture Frames - Cook-books, Adult & Children’s literature - Arts and Crafts, Toys and more!

Perfect and affordable gifts for the whole family! Luxurious organic soaps from Provence for men and women, toques, gloves, scarves, ponchos, velvet hair scrunchies, jewelry, whimsical tea towels and beverage napkins, brand name sample clothing, men, women and kids.

FLORA SHAMANA BLOOMS, fsblooms@yahoo.com

CATES PHARMACY IN VILLAGE SQUARE

Love the flowers at Ruddy and the Bowen Farmer’s Market? Ask Santa for a 2020 Seasonal Flower Share. One bouquet per week for a month. Order at fsblooms.com and choose a month. Online purchases receive a digital gift certificate via email.

We are happy to provide gift ideas for the special people in your lives... art supplies, Honey Candles, Bamboo Ecowear, bath treasures, Daniel Chocolates, cozy sleepwear, scarves, toques, gloves, mugs and more. Stumped? Gift certificates available.

CATCHING STARS GALLERY IN THE COVE

Enjoy the Season of Gift Giving made easy at Catching Stars Gallery – Ornaments, Artworks, Jewellery, Hand Turned Pens, Ceramics, etc.

We offer Complimentary Gift Wrap also. Open Daily 11 – 5. catchingstarsgallery.com

CLOUDFLOWER CLAYWORKS AT ARTISAN SQUARE

Cloudflower presents a show of local painter Gregg Simpson’s acrylic paintings, all reasonably priced and lots of new pottery including recent student work. Hours are 12-4 pm. Monday to Sunday. Open Boxing Day. 604-947-2522

34th Annual

CSA Christmas Craft Fair Merry thanks to all our Volunteers and Sponsors who helped make this event so memorable: Volunteers: Scott Stevenson Greg Cormier Hudson Henriques Denis Cormier Eliot Cormier Jewal Maxwell Brandon Goth Tammy Brockmeyer Willow & Harper Tom Surtees Kathryn Gaitens Nicola Murray All the Parent-helpers at the Youth Craft Fair

It’s a Wrap ANNUAL EXHIBIT & SALE

Sponsors: Kyle Pendleton Kat Stephens Cam Stephens Kat Haxby Sarah Carachelo Marlie Behm Marie Pedley Roxy Pedley Terri Dewar Wendy Harding Kristin Jarvis Tess Taylor

Artisan Office Snug Cove General Store Ruddy Potato Cocoa West Shura Good Cake Fresh St Market Safeway at CaulfeIld Jade & Jamie Weismiller Hope & Ivor Kerr Pernille Nielsen, Notary Bowen Island Community Recreation WV Secondary School Wood working program

CSA Board Members:

Fine Art Creations by Local Artists & Artisans November 20 - December 30 LATE NIGHT SHOPPING THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13

Sarah Cormier, Frazer Elliott, Scott Slater, Jade Weismiller, Sarah Winny

Thanks! From the CSA Christmas Craft Fair Committee:

Katie Cooke, Janina Elliott, Sarah Haxby, Courtney Morris, Pernille Nielsen, Sheana Stevenson, Joan Vygner, Helen Wallwork

GALLERY @ COVE COMMONS 430 Bowen Island Trunk Road 604-947-2454 thehearth.ca

Wed - Mon 10 am - 4 pm PRESENTED BY THE BOWEN ISLAND ARTS COUNCIL WWW.BIAC.CA

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019 • 17

COMMUNITY CALENDAR THURS. DECEMBER 12

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

Info call Pat at 778-288-7090 Recycling for Bowen Island Collins Hall 7:30 p.m. Daniel Rotman of Master Recycler Vancouver presents a Rotary talk

FRI. DECEMBER 13

Martinis with Santa Doc Morgan's 8 pm. An ugly sweater Christmas party. Live music from Richard Lowy & guests Snug Cove Blues Band Bowen Island Pub 7-10 pm Live music, dinner specials, and no cover

SAT. DECEMBER 14

BI Community Choir Winter Concert Cates Hill Chapel, 2 pm and 7:30 pm Musical director, Ellen MacIntosh with special guests The Bowen Quartet, Brian Hoover, and Cam Stephens.

Tix available at Pharmacy.

Free wine tasting Bowen Beer and Wine Cellar 2-5 p.m. Paul Jordan, Mondiale - Featuring Bourbon, Cuban Rum and BC wine

Noon-2 p.m. For children 3-12 to come to the store to choose gifts for their families. Prices will be greatly reduced and volunteers on hand to help children. Parents can socialize outside.

Outdoor Meditation Circle Meet at the picnic tables at the entrance to Crippen Park 11 am. No cost. More info at lisa.shatzky@gmail.com West Coast Symphony and guests winter concert for the community BICS gym 2 pm Admission by donation. All ages welcome.

Bowen Island Pub patio 5-7 p.m. "Enjoy a glass of wine while you shop for lastminute holiday gifts."

WED. DECEMBER 18

A Child's Christmas in Wales Snug Cafe, 7:30 p.m A well loved Bowen tradition returns featuring Martin Clarke, Bob Doucet & special guest. Admission by donation.

All proceeds go toward the Christmas Hamper.

Archery

BICS Gym drop in $10, 7:45 - 9 pm Newcomers welcome!

THURS. DECEMBER 19

Free wine tasting Bowen Beer and Wine Cellar 4-7 p.m.

Knick Knack Nook shopping day

Tumbling with Santa

Honour a Life Cove Commons 7 pm More information page 6

BICS 10 a.m. to noon Crafts, Presented by Bowen Island Gymnastics; $10/person; children under 5 must have parent/guardian present.

Warm and Cozy!

SAT. DECEMBER 21

Christmas Tales Tir-na-nOg 2:30 -5:30 pm "Storyteller, Justyn Rees and singer/songwriters;

Evensong Bowen Island United Church 7 pm An opportunity to pause; meditate in silence, pray and chant. A special focus on this particular service will be placed on holding grief and sadness at this time of year.

MON. DECEMBER 16

Pom Pom plush lined hats $17 Assorted colours

Seniors Keeping Young 1070 Miller Road Exercise at 9 a.m., carol singing and socializing at 9:45 a.m., and a pot luck luncheon at 11 a.m.

Everyone is welcome to attend the pot luck brunch.

JUSTY TYN Y REES

SHARI ULRICH

GRAHAM ORD

RUSS ROSEN

21st

TUES. DECEMBER 17

SUN. DECEMBER 15

Russ Rosen, Shari Ulrich and Graham Ord to deliver the songs and stories like you've never heard before."

Bowen Island AA Collins Hall 7:15 pm

Artisan Holiday Pop up

604-947-0881

2:30 PM Matinee Tickets $22 at The Hearth, Phoenix Books and online at bigtreeshows.eventbrite.com

Gifts, Books, and Fun for Everyone!

LIGHT UP

BOWEN ISLAND

BIG THANK YOU to all the VOLUNTEER ELVES who helped us BIG SHOUT OUT to our VOLUNTEER ELVES who put up lights, posters, decorated Doc Morgans, sewed costumes & helped organize; you are so appreciated ~ Candy Ho, Hayley Bradley, Hilary Butler, Jen Ritchie (Lead Decor Expert), Jen Davidson, Jeni Redekopp, Jody Lorenz, Lisa Cowburn, Michelle Harrison, Michelle Mountain, Michael Windler, Micaele Maddison, Abigail & Hannah Florendo, Murray Atherton, Rebecca Hurst, Rob Forbes, Russell Hackney, Sasha Buchanan, Steph & Kevin Boggan, Siobhan Catchlove, Susan Nelson, Yvette Gabrielle (my cousin Azha), Noah Pryce Jones for help & advice and SPECIAL APPRECIATION to Liz Nankin ~ our amazing costume designer!!!

Spend the Holidays playing games and doing puzzles with the whole family!

• Puzzles and board games for all ages • Throws, Candles, and Picture Frames • Cook-books, Adult & Children’s literature • Arts and Crafts, Toys and more!

Extended Holiday Hours: December 1st - December 14th Monday - Saturday 9 - 5 pm Sunday: 9 - 4 pm December 15th - December 23rd: 9 - 6 pm Christmas Eve: 9 - 3:30 pm CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY, BOXING DAY and New Years Day

604-947-2793 • Village Square

THUMBS UP to those who kept us safe: Bowen Island Fire Department & RCMP. Our volunteer flaggers: Jewal Maxwell, Anne Smitton, Hayley Mythen & Brandon Goth. Thank you Brian & Leanne Biddlecombe for bringing Santa safely to us. Cheers to Tammy Brockmeyer for putting on the LANTERN WORKSHOP SPECIAL THANK YOU to Mark Turk, who constructed our Grandfather Clock (& the giant tree on the USSC lawn) and Darren Thompson, who painted and decorated the clock ~ fantastic work!

THANK YOU Light Up Helpers: Henry Wing, Isabella Onorato, Marie Pedkey, Sarah Carachelo, Hilary Butler and Lisa Cowburn. BIG HOORAY to our MASCOTS: Charlie Segal, Colleen Ireland, Cynthia Van Hoof, Ethan Harrison, Hannah Florendo & her friends, Lucy & Jenny, Lise Cote, Maggie Hocking, Michelle Harrison, Michael Nankin, Michael & Robert Windler, Noah Pryce Jones & his family, Stewart & Issac Procketer, Suzan Ross, Wendy Hackney & new comers to Bowen Island, Ryan & Sophie.

Thank you BOWEN ISLAND COMMUNITY CHOIR for singing. Thank you Bowen Island Recreation for providing Santas’ Workshop.

(If I forgot anybody in this letter please stab me with a candy cane) Last, but not least, BIG THANK YOU to Jewal Maxwell, always dedicated to this event! I wouldn’t do it if she didn’t insist. Of course I need to thank my dear husband, Paul. Every year he says “leave me out of it” but then he dives in & helps me all along the way. Of course I would like to thank Santa Claus & Cates Hill Chapel for their very special Live Nativity.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !

OUR SPONSORS: BOWEN ISLAND MUNICIPALITY KNICK KNACK KNOOK Bowen Building Centre Bowen Island Properties First Credit Union Orchard Recovery Centre Artisan Eats Arrow Solar & Security Films Bowen Island Land & Sea Taxi Bowen Island Pub Bowen Island Vet Cowper Family Edward Jones Green Books MacDonald Realty Metro Blasting Northern Ani Solutions Snug Cafe Simon Parker Family Barcelona Branch on Bowen Connies’ Knits & Gifts Squirrel Gift Shop

OUR DONORS: Bowen Island Family Place Bowen Island Recreation Bowen Island Realty Catching Stars Gallery CORMORANT MARINE & TUG Copper Spirit Distillery Doc Morgans Fabulous Finds Phoenix Ruddy Potato Tuscany UNION STEAMSHIP MARINA

THE UNDERCURRENT

18 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

Bowen Island Community

MARKETPLACE Call to place your ad at

or 604-444-3000 Email: classifieds@van.net

604-630-3300

FOR SALE - MISC STEEL BUILDING CLEARANCE ... “FALL BLOWOUT - PRICED TO CLEAR!” 20X25 $6,687.

25X29 $7,459. 28X29 $8,196. 30X35 $9840. 32X37 $9,898. One End Wall Included. Pioneer Steel 1-855-212-7036 www.pioneersteel.ca

ANSWERS

LEGAL SERVICES

ATTENTION

INVENTORS! Ideas wanted!

Call Davison today!

1.800.218.2909 or visit us at inventing.davison.com/BC Free inventor’s guide!

RENOS & HOME IMPROVEMENT

CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer Employment/Licensing loss?

Travel/Business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US Entry Waiver. Record Purge. File Destruction. Free Consultation 1-800-3472540. accesslegalmjf.com

SPROTTSHAW.COM

SUDOKU

BC WIDE CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

COMMUNITY SUPPORT WORKER

Phone Hours: Mon to Fri 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Office Hours: 9 am to 5 pm

CM Homes & Renovations Experienced General Contractor Quality Sub Trades Clean Honest Reliable. www.cmhomes.ca Contact Charles 778-999-8072 Charlesmc@shaw.ca West Vancouver BC

Join the conversation at

follow us on

www.facebook.com/BIUndercurrent

INDUSTRIAL/ COMMERCIAL

bowenislandundercurrent.adperfect.com

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

Adam.s@integritybuilt.com.

1-250-351-5374.

@BowUndercurrent

@bowenislandundercurrent.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Dr. Susanne Schloegl M.D.

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

604-947-9986

Bowen Island Chiropractic

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

778-828-5681

www.drtracyleach.ca

Dr. Dana Barton

Naturopathic Physician 596 B. Artisan Square

604-730-1174 Natural Family Medicine

Dr. Gloria Chao HOLISTIC COUNSELLING Brooke Evans, MSW, RSW 604-781-3987

brooke@becounselling.ca becounselling.ca

SHIATSU Shiatsu massage therapy follows traditional Chinese medicine to restore your body’s health with flow and relaxation.

Vicky Frederiksen

Certified Shiatsu Practitioner.

778-881-9012 call or text email: v.gathe@gmail.com

BOWEN ISLAND WELLNESS CENTRE 604-947-9755

Located in Artisan Square

MARY MCDONAGH

Dr. Alea Bell, ND

❦

RMT, DCH Registered Massage Therapist

604-338-5001

❦

HEIDI MATHER

Registered Acupuncturist, Homeopath, Doula

Mary Coleman, MSW, RSW Compassion minded counselling

778-233-4425

MARY MCDONAGH RMT HARMONY SHIRE RMT ALICIA HOPPENRATH RMT KIM HOWDEN RMT

Celebrating 29 years

Registered Acupuncturist Registered Nutritionist

Julie Hughes, RPC

Book online bowenislandwellnesscentre.ca

778-858-2669

Community Healthcare

Psychologist

Lifelabs

Dr. Carolyn Nesbitt PhD, R.Psych #1484

Dr. Zandy’s former office

INHABIT

Alternate Fridays 10am - 4:30pm

Massage Therapy Matthew van der Giessen

FREE

RMT

www.bowenislanddental.com

778-891-0370

Registered Physiotherapist

SANDY LOGAN

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

Online Booking: www.birchwellness.com

❦

NexGen Hearing

Hearing Testing

@ Artisan Square

Dr. Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncturist

Family Dentist

Call us at

604-947-9755 EXT #1

At entrance to Artisan Square Suite #597

CATHERINE SHAW

BOWEN ISLAND

MASSAGE THERAPY

SOMATIC CENTRE

(778) 952-3757 566 Artisan Square www.inhabitcentre.ca

Breathe Move Touch

Counselling

604-376-9801 www.CarolynNesbitt.com

Tues - 6:45 - 8:45 a.m.

Thurs. - 6:45 - 8:45 a.m.

For routine lab tests.

Specialized tests & children may be referred to the mainland.

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019 • 19

BOWEN HOME SERVICES love the life you live CUSTOM WOOD SIGNS

NEW CONSTRUCTION

Window Blinds

RENOVATIONS

Wood & metal work designs rendered with a CNC Router to produce commercial quality work. From custom signs to furniture.

RESTORATION ADDITIONS SECONDARY STRUCTURES

On Bowen

UNIQUE OUTDOOR SPACES SUB CONTRACT WORK

BUILT GREEN BC BUILDER

778-995-1902

CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTATION WWW.WHITEHART.CA ADDRESS 302-566 ARTISAN LANE BOWEN ISLAND, BC PHONE 1 (778) 999-3434

Accounting Bookkeeping Taxation Virtual CPA

located on Bowen Island

Craig 604-366-2229 • 778-722-0269 • craig@seatoskycnc.com

TOP PRODUCING REALTOR on Bowen Island since 2009 President’s Club 2015, 2017 & 2018 for Top 1% of Realtors in the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver

Leila Swann, CPA, CA 604-318-5414 leila@greenbooks.ca www.greenbooks.ca

BOWEN ISLAND SPECIALISTS! QUALITY SERVICE GUARANTEED!

11 years

Keep Calm and Call Econo

604.980.3333

604.612.7798

991 West First Street, North Vancouver, BC www.economovingandstorage.com

bowenhomes.ca

GUTTERS & SNOWBARS

Landscape Lighting Irrigation

(604) 947-2025

Seascape

A T

Bruce Culver

Office: 604-947-9686

Cell: 604-329-3045

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.

Leave 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

▼

BOWEN ISLAND Snug Cove

* 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.

AQUA TERRA EAVESTROUGHS A BOWEN ISLAND FAMILY COMPANY

Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH Reverend Lorraine Ashdown and Tina Overbury Service and Sunday School 10:30 am Collins Hall Bookings: Helen Wallwork Minister of Music: Lynn Williams

FOOD BANK DROP-OFF

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

Administration Office: 604-682-6774

CATES HILL CHAPEL

www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661 Carter Rd.)

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

Pastor: Phil Adkins

20 • THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 2019

WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM

Joy to you and yours from

Village Square Gifts, Books, and Fun for Everyone!

EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS December 1st – December 14th

Monday-Wednesday: 9:00am-5:00pm Thursday-Saturday: 9:00am-5:00pm Sunday: 9:00am-4:00pm December 15th - December 23rd 9:00am – 6:00pm Christmas Eve 9:00am – 3:30pm CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY, BOXING DAY and New Year’s Day 604-947-2793

Happy Holidays

Happy Christmas from our family to yours

from all of us at

BOWEN SUSHI Open for Lunch & Dinner 11:30 - 8:00 pm closed Tuesdays.

Take out or Eat In We do special PARTY TRAYS!

604-947-6806 BEER & WINE CELLAR

Merry Christmas SEASONAL TREATS

• Christmas trees • Gifts for foodies • Handmade soaps and beeswax candles • Stolen, panettone and Christmas cakes • Chocolates, vintage candy canes • Specialty cheeses and antipasti

CHRISTMAS DINNER

• Complete turkey dinners from the Ruddy Kitchen • JD farms all natural turkeys • Tourtiere • All the veggies • Sparkling organic juices • Fresh pies, cream and icecream

Happy Christmas to all

HOLIDAY HOURS Christmas Eve 9am - 7:30pm Christmas Day Closed Boxing Day noon - 7:30pm New Year’s Eve 10am to 10pm New Year’s Day noon to 7:30pm

Open everyday 10am - 11pm

Season's Greetings to all from CATES PHARMACY

Thanks for your support!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

778-873-3125

Have a “Happy” Holiday!

Warm wishes fo! "

HAPPY HOLIDAY

Dee Elliott and Frazer Elliott

Happy Holidays Wishing you a happy holiday season and a joyous New Year from all of us at First Credit Union!

HOLIDAY CLOSURES E

DEC 25, 26, AND JAN 1 EARLY CLOSING DEC 24 & 31

We wish wii you the merriest!

Hap appy Hololidays frfrom alall ofo us u ata

Bowen Island Integrated Health

Gift cards available

962 Dorman Road • 604 947-9888

Bronwy wyn, y Tracey, and Peter

Dr. N. Lendvoy DC Rachel Canning Kin Michael Witten SLP Kierra McIntyre OT Dr. Greame Saruk PsyD

Gregory Smith MPT Katie Mackay RMT Ellie Mackay RD Sara Kraatz RN Dr. Karla Saruk PsyD

www.bowenislandhealth.com