Bowen Island Undercurrent November 26 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

REAL ESTATE: What’s for sale & what’s been sold

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A1

$1.50

STARTS PAGE 11

inc.

GST

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2020

VOL. 46 NO. 47

BIUndercurrent

BowUndercurrent www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

GIVING ON BOWEN Our annual special feature returns PAGES 7  10

How to get a bump in the road

AND OTHER MUNI MORSELS BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

UNDERCURRENT PHOTO

THE CHRISTMAS LOCKER: Basia Lieske selects giant candy canes from the storage locker full of Light Up

Bowen decorations Saturday morning. While the usual Light Up Bowen celebrations won’t proceed, Lieske and a legion of elves are decorating the Cove this week to bring some cheer to the island. Lieske also hopes to have Santa visit neighbourhoods one way or another and has added a Light Up Your Home Challenge to this year’s festivities.

From the Nov. 23 regular council meeting: Bowen Island neighbourhoods wanting passing traffic to slow down now have a roadmap. Council adopted a traffic calming policy Monday.

The policy lays out procedures for Bowen Islanders to request traffic calming measures and how staff would go about approving or rejecting said requests. (Measures can cost up to $5,000; spending more than that would need to go to council.)

Speeding and road conflict are “major concerns” on Bowen as traffic volume is lower, curbs are few and active transportation facilities are lacking, says the policy.

Council saw the policy last month but asked for more community consultation before passing the island-sweeping policy. Under the policy, affected properties would submit a request form showing the support of a minimum of five affected properties or 60 per cent of affected properties (whichever is less). Staff then review traffic volume and speed data in the area for at least one week to see if calming is warranted (judged by volume of cars, percentage excessively exceeding the speed limit and proximity to schools, playgrounds or senior-oriented development.) Staff then consult on the appropriate traffic calming measure, fund, implement and monitor it.

Mayor Gary Ander was on the fence in his support of the policy. “I can drive from [home] to the Cove sometimes and not pass a car,” he said. “So we don’t have any issue with traffic currently on Bowen.”

Ander said he was concerned about cost to the municipality but that he also didn’t think there would be much uptake with Bowen’s current population and traffic levels.

CONTINUED ON P. 24

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A2 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

Events December 14, 2020 6:15 pm Regular Council Meeting All meetings are online via Zoom and

open to the public, unless noted otherwise.

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Committees are established by Council to provide opportunities for public involvement in municipal matters. Committees are advisory in nature and function within the authority set out in their Terms of Reference or by Establishment Bylaw. When citizen representatives are appointed, they serve in a voluntary capacity and bring local knowledge, expertise and experience to specific areas of municipal concern. Committees support Council in other ways as well - through fostering the spirit of volunteerism in the community, extending the capability of Council and staff to take on additional tasks and inviting community input, commitment and support throughout the process.

For more information on the committees requiring members and to download an application please go to:

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/committees

New COVID-19 restrictions New orders are in place to help everyone in BC significantly reduce their social interactions and to help stop COVID-19 from spreading in our province.

The following orders and direction are in effect:

Help slow the spread of COVID-19:

• • • • •

Stay home if you’re sick

We’re hiring: Fire Chief

Committees seeking members

Mandatory mask mandate for workers and customers in indoor public and retail spaces – and in workplace common areas No events or social gatherings with anyone outside your household or core bubble (if you live alone) COVID-19 travel advisory in BC: essential travel only Spin classes, hot yoga, and high intensity interval training are suspended No spectators – and no travel outside your community – for sports games

Learn more: https://gov.bc.ca/covid19restrictions

Bowen Island Municipality is looking for a permanent full-time Fire Chief to join our team. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Fire Chief will administer, plan, direct and control all aspects of the Fire Department including the administration, fire suppression, fire prevention and rescue activities. In addition, the Fire Chief will abide by and implement applicable local, provincial and federal legislation and regulations.

The successful applicant will: Have an excellent track-record as a fire fighter with demonstrated progressive leadership experience in a fire department setting.

• Have deep knowledge and understanding of Provincial Fire regulations.

• Have demonstrated excellence in organizational, interpersonal and communication skills, and a demonstrated success in working effectively with volunteers, staff and elected officials in a team environment.

• Have capital project management experience.

• Be able and willing to work both days and evenings any day of the week and be on call 24 hours a day unless the Deputy Chief or paid Duty Chief is available.

• Live on Bowen Island full time.

A critical role of this position will be to assist in the project management and delivery of the new $3.6 million Fire Hall and Emergency Operations Centre project.

•

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/jobs

Municipal Water System Local Advisory Committee Meetings Municipal Water System Local Advisory Committee Meetings are scheduled to start December 1, 2020. Residents are encouraged to contact their LAC ahead of the meeting for concerns they would like addressed. Residents will be able to watch the meeting, however participation will be limited.

Water System Local Advisory Committees have advisory powers to Council regarding water system issues, and also review the operating and capital budgets for the utility.

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/water-and-sewer

Translink Development Cost Charges

Clean your hands frequently 2 m or 6 feet

Development cost charges (DCCs) are applied to new developments in Metro Vancouver to help fund the construction or expansion of regional transportation projects by TransLink.

Keep a safe physical distance

This new “Regional Transportation DCC” was introduced in 2018 to assist in paying for eligible projects of the Phase One and Phase Two Investment Plan.

Wear a mask in indoor public spaces

www.translink.ca/About-Us/Taxes/DevelopmentCost-Charges.aspx

Contact Us Phone: Fax: Email:

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

Find us on Facebook Bowen Island Municipal Hall 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2

Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday to Friday Closed statutory holidays November 23, 2020

Bowen Island Municipality

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Translink Development Cost Charges (DCCs)are increasing as of January 1, 2021.

Subscribe to our mailing list bowenislandmunicipality.ca/subscribe

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A3

ISLAND NEWS

Bowen’s churches adapt to restrictions AS THE CHRISTMAS SEASON ARRIVES, UNCERTAINTY SURROUNDS CELEBRATIONS

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor

With Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry suspending all in-person worship and religious services last week, Bowen’s three churches are looking toward a very different Christmas season.

Cates Hill Chapel

At the beginning of November, after months of Zoom services, Cates Hill Chapel attempted to go back to in-person services. They got to do one service (with COVID procedures in place) before public health orders impelled the church back online.

So they’re adapting.

The church’s regular celebration of Advent on the four Sundays leading up to Christmas will all be online. Instead of the usual live Nativity that’s part of Light Up Bowen, the church will set up stationary figures with a sign with the lyrics to “Silent Night.” “[For] if people want to have a little Christmas carol on their own,” said Pastor Phil Adkins. “Just to remind people of the season.”

Instead of a live Christmas pageant, kids will pick up their costumes and act out their roles at home. They’ll then compile the home videos, add narration, set the virtual pageant to music and share over Zoom.

The Christmas Eve service will be a live virtual experience with likely pre-recorded musical segments.

“There’s some enthusiasm [in the church] to make it work,” said Adkins “We’ll just try to choose joy…lean into the love, joy, peace that’s part of the season that we hope to embody as part our faith.”

“We’re sad that we can’t be together, because usually Christmas Eve is by far our largest public worship service in the year.

“We always light candles and pass the flame, shoulder to shoulder and sing “Silent Night” at the end of our Christmas Eve service and we all go out with joy and peace and all the good things,” said Adkins. “I’m hoping that digital flame will still be passed.”

Cates Hill Chapel’s Practical Care Team, an arm of its Care Ministry Group, provides different kinds of gifts and encouragement as well as practical support in the holiday season. They give some families and individuals tailor-made gestures of support –– for some there are gift cards or ferry cards, for others there are notes of encouragement or a candle “This year, maybe more than half the people aren’t really all part of our church,” said Adkins.

“We’re just aware of a number of different people and families this year who are in a different place of need.”

This program received $1,000 from the Community Foundation, which Adkins said helped as things got a little bit tight financially this year.

“The Chapel wishes everybody peace with a sense of joy in the season, however they celebrate it,” added Adkins.

Bowen Island United Church (Little Red Church)

The United Church is pre-recording services and airing them on YouTube every Sunday morning. Sunday evenings for the next

four weeks, there will be Zoom all-ages Advent Vespers, gathering youth, elders and everyone inbetween. The church is also planning an old-fashioned outdoor service for Christmas Eve. “If that can’t happen, then it won’t happen,” said Rev. Lorraine Ashdown.

“And we will go back to the world of pre-recorded online.”

“Right now, Bonnie would not allow us to do what we’re planning to do so that’s up in the air.”

Some members of the church have also started a book club.

“Just as a way of connecting,” said Ashdown.

“Our connections really are, at this point, almost all electronic, almost all virtual,” said Ashdown.

“So we’re trying to stay connected in whatever way we can – phone, text, Zoom, YouTube.”

But Ashdown really wants to reach out and find the people who are on their own, who don’t Zoom, email, text or go on YouTube. “We’re really trying to find the people, not just within our own congregation, but in general, who are feeling quite cut adrift by all of this,” said Ashdown.

“Because it’s Christmas. And some people could be spending Christmas alone and we don’t know who those people are.”

If someone is reading this and wants to connect with Ashdown, as the minister of the Bowen Island United Church, she encourages people to do so. Her email address is Lorraineashdown@gmail.com and her phone number is 778688-2061. “Because we’re all in our houses, we just don’t know who would like to hear from us or to hear from me,” she said. “I’m happy to connect with anybody who wants to hear another voice.”

“It’s a very hard time,” she said.

“It was already hard and now it looks like in some cases family won’t to be able to gather and in many cases friends can’t gather.

“So it’s a unique Christmastime where we have to be creative in how we’re going to connect with one another.”

St. Gerard’s Catholic Christian Church

Until last week St. Gerard’s had been holding mass. They’d managed to work out spacing for a maximum of 22 people inside the church but that has now halted.

“I don’t think we’ve made any plans for Christmas because who knows where we’re going to be at,” said Angela Powell.

“We’ve had pretty much the same 20-odd people [attending],” said Powell. “The solid core community who felt safe to do that. We have some people who definitely said they would like to have done but don’t feel secure enough.”

“It’s been really great to have some sort of faith community, getting together and praying together again,” she said. “It’s hard when you’re on your own.

And I know there’s lots of televised things, lots of Zoom masses every day from the cathedral, but not the same as participating with folks that you know.

“We had the same priest most weeks [the priest comes over every week from the mainland] and it feels like family. We’re all wrapped up with each other and sharing with each other.”

Powell said she doesn’t think they’ll do Zoom mass from their church. Some members are using the cathedral in town instead.

KRISTIN JARVIS PHOTO

Christmas snacking away despite the lights around his antlers.

Meet‘Christmas’ THE DEER LIGHTING UP THE ISLAND

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor

At least one buck on Bowen is applying for Santa’s sled team.

Dubbed by some young Bowen Islanders ‘Christmas,’ a deer with a string of Christmas lights wrapped around his antlers has been reported to conservation officers a couple of times in the last few weeks.

“It seemed to be mobile, feeding, just doing normal deer behaviour and it was still able to feed itself and survive,” said conservation officer Erich Harbich. “At this time we don’t see any health concerns or concerns relating to its ability to survive.”

“We’re just monitoring and if anything comes up in a future report that’s concerning, like we always do, we’ll respond as per policy to maintain the quality of life,” he said. “If for humane purposes we can detach him from [the string of lights] if it starts to be a problem, then we’ll be glad to do it.”

A4 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

VIEWPOINTS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

About the deer incident

TO THE BOWEN ISLAND COMMUNITY, I am writing this to clarify the circumstances that resulted in the article published last week by the Undercurrent.

Three years ago, while driving home one evening, I saw a mortally wounded deer suffering in the ditch and took action to euthanize him without calling the RCMP. I understand that I acted without good judgment and sincerely regret causing any harm as a result of my actions.

I am incredibly sorry for the embarrassment this has caused my friends and family. I would also like to thank all those who have publicly defended my character; their support is appreciated.

Richard Chase The letter to the editor “Dock, easement controversy eroding public’s rights” provided the incorrect link to provide comment for a dock application. The link is - comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ application #2412347. The deadline to comment is Nov. 28.

Heather Hodson

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

EDITORIAL

A means of thanking our island heroes

This is our last edition that’s going out to every mailbox on the island this year.

We hope that you’ve found the local information you need and want in these special editions and we appreciate any feedback as to what you would like to see in the future.

This has been a year like no other and we feel lucky to be serving this community.

— Bronwyn B., Editor

Several years ago, we came to this place called Bowen Island, mainly because it was what we could afford. And it seemed a good place to raise our children. Little did we know that the community we were joining would be so supportive to our well-being, that it would become home. So many people have helped and are helping to raise our families.

I cannot say enough good things about the people that we have met on this island. During these strange times that we are in I have watched people step forward to help make the lives of others more

livable.

This wonderful community we live in is supported by businesses, public servants, and volunteers during this pandemic. Without these individuals our community would find it difficult to survive the social distancing and isolation during these times We came up with an idea to recognize and thank those individuals (heroes) who help look after us.

To that end we are providing a Thank You Prize.

There are five prizes ranging from $50 to $300.

A letter will be sent out or delivered to the

business owners/managers with the rules and a request for names and contact information of employees who interact with the public. The form is to be returned to the Undercurrent office by Dec. 14. The draw will be on Dec. 19 with winners announced in the Dec. 24 edition of the Undercurrent.

The Undercurrent has agreed to facilitate this prize giving as we wish to remain anonymous.

A sincere thanks goes to all of you heroes; may we all learn from your example.

— A Bowen Islander

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. Please limit to under 500 words.

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 advertising Monday, 4 p.m. DEADLINE for editorial Tuesday 5 p.m.

Bowen Island Undercurrent Subscription Rates: Mailed 1 year subscription on Bowen Island: $55, including GST. Within Canada: $85 including GST Newsstand (Single Copy) $1.50 per copy, including GST

ISSN 7819-5040

National NewsMedia Council.

EDITOR Bronwyn Beairsto 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

SPECIAL THANK-YOU Audrey Grescoe

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.

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A5

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Tax bill may kill golden goose DAVID HIILL’S PROPERTY TAX HAS RISEN 400 % OVER 28 YEARS

DEAR EDITOR: When I retired to Bowen Island in 1992 my water tax bill was $200. In the succeeding 28 years the cost has risen to $800, a 400 per cent increase. Over the same period, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has risen by only 161 per cent. Thus, at best, the water rate increase is more than twice the rise in the official cost of living (2.48 times to be exact).

There seems very little justification for such an excessive increase in the water rate, except perhaps to argue that a big chunk of the proceeds have recently had to be allocated to a capital fund, which was then raided to pay half the cost for road repairs when the road slid and broke the water main from the waterworks. The budget for the road repairs should really have paid for the remediation of the water main, not the other way round, since the water main would have remained intact if the road had not slid. Then additional moneys from the Blue Water Park Water System reserves ($75,000 I understand) were wasted on non-productive water wells, apparently sunk where it was convenient to have wells, rather than being sunk where there was known to be water.

At the same time the property tax on my home, calculated for: (1) a homeowner; and (2) an owner over 65; has risen from $698.41 to $2,821.09, an increase of slightly over 400 per cent (again, remember that the CPI increase over the same period was only 161 per cent).

Thus this year I have had to pay out $3,621.09 total

municipal tax, out of after income tax income, compared to the $898.41 I was billed in 1992 — an excess of $2,722.68 compared to 1992.

For someone on an effectively fixed income, coping with the usual increases in health and other costs due to age, this is a hardship. It has been particularly galling to see Bluewater water system reserve money spent with such gay abandon on questionable projects, or projects that should fall 100 per cent into the road repair budget. These are not the only concerns regarding the water system, when compared to the other better endowed water districts, as well as the loss of our water to King Edward Bay, due to the differing elevations of the storage facilities. Also, how come we cannot use our reservoir because it is open, whereas other water systems continue to use open reservoirs for their water. Isn’t this a matter of installing a simple filter similar to those installed in thirdworld countries?

Ten years ago this summer, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution affirming that water and sanitation are fundamental human rights.

More than four-dozen countries have now either enshrined the right to water in their constitutions or framed the right within national legislation (April 22, 2020). [nationalobserver.com/2020/04/22/opinion/ covid-19-puts-human-right-water-front-and-centre] I should point out that I also pay for my sanitation with a septic field and regular maintenance.

An important support for the island economy arises from the incomes of retirees but this ongoing trend may well kill that particular golden goose.

David R. Hill

ORANGE by FASHION VILLAGE SAM MPLE SALE

Call 604 947-0881 for store hours

DEAR EDITOR: Snug Cove House Society is happy to welcome four new directors to its board: Cindy MacLeod is a registered nurse specializing in geriatric outreach at Vancouver Coastal Health, Holly Mackintosh manages a mainland seniors’ residence, Chris Passier is an information technology manager, and molecular biologist Martine Sampath is now the society’s Treasurer.

The society thanks retiring director and society secretary John Barr, who is leaving the island after many decades here. Also leaving the board and the island is Carol MacKinnon, who for 18 years has been a key motivator in the drive to build a supportive seniors’ residence on Bowen. Thank you Carol.

The society had hoped to hear before its annual general meeting last Saturday if its bid to obtain BC Housing funding for its planned residence had been successful but the recent provincial election and subsequent appointment of a new cabinet has now delayed that process.

Graham Ritchie For the board of Snug Cove House Society

Knick Knack Nook closing for now: pandemic

The Knick Knack Nook has closed for the time being.

The Nook’s last day was Monday as it shutters in a usually busy season for the protection of its volunteers, customers and community. “Just to protect everybody,” said Nook president David Wrinch, adding that they’re not an essential service.

While Wrinch is disappointed about needing to close, he noted that the Nook isn’t laying anyone off (as it’s entirely volunteer-run) and at least no one will suffer financially.

Our special edition celebrating 100 years of the relationship between Union Steamships and Bowen is next week! Send in memories, stories and photos of the era by Nov. 30 - editor@bowenislandundercurrent. com.

PREMIUM GIFTS FOR MEN

Event starrts Friday, Nov. 27 Wholesale prices on coats, shirts, sweaters, tunics and pants.

All one of a kind.

Great opportunity to SHOP LOCAL for holiday gifts.

Snug Cove House Society sees board turnover

SAMPLES by Tommy Bahama

An exceptional opportunity to choose from a large assortment of sweaters, sweatshirts, shirts, jackets, polo shirts and pants.

Call 604 947-0881 for store hours

A6 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

You're invited...

ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

25

YEARS

CELEBRATING

A CYBER SOIRÉE

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 28, 2020 @ 6:30PM

FREE Online Party & Celebration with Top Entertainment - visit islandpacific.org for details.

This party is kickstarting our Bridge to the Future Fund, empowering IPS to thrive for the next 25 years!

DINE

ORDER IN FOR YOUR VIRTUAL VIEWING PARTY The virtual soiree starts at 6:30pm sharp, so order your meals, gather in your bubble and prepare to wine, dine, and sit back to enjoy the show!

REUNITE

ALUMNI, STUDENTS, FAMILIES, COMMUNITY MEMBERS Let’s go, let’s go, let’s rock & roll to celebrate the last 25 years of IPS!

Support our local restaurants who have supported us in this event!

CELEBRATE

TOP ENTERTAINERS

REUNION AFTER PARTY

MEET US IN THE VIRTUAL IPS MANSION Visit with Ted Spear, Scott Herrington, Jennifer Henrichsen, Mr. Simmonds and many more teachers and students - open to everyone!

Weaving memories of the last 25 years with the possibilities for the next 25 – with Barney Bentall, Adam Woodall, Kelly & Gibson, John Stiver, Teun Schut, Rob Bailey & Buff Allen.

CONTRIBUTE

ONLINE AUCTION & CONTESTS The Online Auction is now LIVE! Check out the amazing items and get bidding! Two awesome contests: PRIVATE CRUISE – an afternoon of luxury for up to 8 guests.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

REVELSTOKE & SUTTON PLACE STAY AND SKI PACKAGE – legendary power, big mountain terrain small town vibes.

Or check out this fabulous auction item – TOFINO 3 NIGHT GET AWAY – includes $600 in gift certificates!

REGISTER NOW! CHECK OUT THE AUCTION & CONTESTS (Party link will be sent just before the event) ISLANDPACIFIC.ORG

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A7

MURRAY ATHERTON PHOTO

Bowen Island Community School students held a parade of kindness that passed in front of the Undercurrent office Wednesday afternoon. They stopped to cheer on some of Santa’s helpers putting up Light Up Bowen decorations.

GIVING ON BOWEN

It’s cliché these days to say that when the pandemic hit we turned to the arts but it warrants repeating.

On Bowen, we’ve had musicians playing online shows, artists giving online lessons, actors live-streaming screenplay readings. We’ve had talent shows, poetry readings, book launches, gallery tours in a virtual world. We have artists reinterpreting and reimagining our world, articulating our fears and chronicling our experiences.

Honestly, my head hurts a bit from looking at the screen so much but I can’t imagine these past months without artists. Thank you.

Bronwyn Beairsto, editor

The giving arts

On that note, the Undercurrent talked with Hearth executive director Jami Scheffer and program coordinator Kathleen Ainscough about how the arts council and

Our special section dedicated to one of our community’s greatest strengths: giving artists of Bowen are faring.

The Hearth had planned a December market with outdoor and indoor components but with the new health orders limiting any sort of gathering, crowd control for an outdoor market became difficult said Scheffer. The indoor market is still a go but resembles more of a gallery show with about a dozen artists participating and the artists won’t be on hand. The Hearth is also expanding its gift shop.

The December art market had an unusually low response, which Ainscough and Scheffer put to a few factors. The Hearth had to reinvent the market a few times as COVID cases rose and restrictions grew.

“A lot of people were trying to figure out how to do their own thing,” said Ainscough. “Artists are trying to market their own work from home, creating online stores,”

said Ainscough. “Or just getting another job because it’s not sustainable right now.”

Scheffer noted the loss that’s come with a modified holiday shopping season. “Christmas craft shows in any community are huge.

It’s not just a venue for artists to sell. It’s also a social interaction with the community and with the artists and to see what the artists are up to,” she said. “None of that’s happening and I think that that just deflated everyone’s balloons.”

“It’s really hard to get the energy up these days, going into the second wave and just the fatigue,” said Ainscough, who is herself an artist and co-owner of the Catching Stars Gallery. “You’re producing a body of work...for shows and things and not knowing if anything is going to happen with it. It’s very tricky.”

Some are finding creative fatigue while others are finding inspiration in the suffering and difficulty

said Ainscough.

“But that’s a different kind of art – it comes from a different place.

Less of a celebration and more of a catharsis,” said Ainscough.

“Like a country song,” joked Scheffer.

“Some of the best creative stuff comes out of suffering. So that may be a year from now that that work is coming to fruition,” said Ainscough.

The two also point to a virtual fatigue. “It’s definitely a burnout for all of us,” said Scheffer “And [you’re] not feeding on that energy of when you’re together,” said Ainscough.

And the future isn’t a matter of going back to the template of yore with a simple change of dates. “It’s reimagining everything, because everything is different,” said Ainscough.

The Hearth is also seeing the economic effects of the pandemic

in art sales, ticket sales (as shows haven’t happened), gift shop purchases and it’s affected their bottom line. “We’ve scraped the bottom of the money bucket,” said Ainscough.

Though it’s unlikely the mini gala fundraiser will look like years past, the Hearth is hard at work creating a COVID-era version of the event. “Something that will create a stir and some excitement and, and an opportunity to showcase some artists,” said Scheffer.

When asked about what Bowen Islanders can do to help the arts, the answers are obvious, though bear repeating – buy local, donate to the arts council (or arts organizations) and become a member of the arts council.

Arts Pacific Gallery is offering a draw for a $100 gift certificate.

Anyone can enter by visiting their Artisan Square storefront between now and Dec. 20.

THANK YOU

Light up Sponsors!

Make cheques payable to B.I. Christmas Hamper Fund mail to PO Box 19 Bowen Island TAX RECEIPTS WILL BE PROVIDED Infformation: Linda Pffeifff (9625)), Janice Skeels (952 24)), Pernille Nielsen (2210), or Ian Thompson (329-8097)

p

Bowen Island Christmas Hamper Drive

STARTING DECEMBER 6th S

our panel of judges will be driving by your neighbourhood - looking for the best “decked” out homes and over all neighbourhood. The winners will be announced Mid D December in the Undercurrent.

Barcelona Tapas & Wine Bar Bowen Barber Bowen Building Centre Bowen Event Rentals Bowen Island Properties Bowen Pet Supplies Bowen Island Pub Branch on Bowen Cocoa West Chocolatier DK Harris Properties (Bellringers) Edward Jones Fabulous Finds General Store Libellule Cottages Leigh Auto Marie Neys Fine Art Movement Global Phoenix Company Remax Crest Realty Story Tellings Squirrel Tuscany The Undercurrent

. . . and . . .

SPECIAL THANK YOU

To ALL our GOFUNDME Donors

A8 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Giving nature

Island Pacific School students raise funds while cultivating humanity

Covenant House provides love and hope to Vancouver’s homeless and at-risk street youth.

They help young people aged 16 to 24 who have fled physical, emotional and sexual abuse; those who have been forced from their homes; and those who have aged out of foster care.

Every year, since 2015, Island Pacific School students have supported Covenant House and their Sleep Out: Student Edition. IPS students go to Covenant House in downtown Vancouver to volunteer on the day of their sleep out. They get a small taste of what it would be like to be on the street as they are given a toonie for dinner and spend two hours in the Downtown Eastside, usually in the pouring rain. The idea is that they are sleeping out so that someone can sleep inside the Covenant House accom-

PHOTO COURTESY OF ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

Island Pacifc Students participate in the overnight event Sleep Out: Student Edition. modation.

In 2018, Island Pacific School students raised more than any other school in the Lower Mainland and in the past six years have raised $47,928 for at-risk street youth.

In 2020, through their efforts, students raised an amazing $7,735 and one student, Danae Jan, was the top Sleep Out: Student Edition fundraiser in Vancouver.

The grade nine students share their experiences sleeping out —“After being thrown out of their house, running away from violence or being shoved out of foster care, the pain and trauma would

be unbearable and almost unimaginable. But by doing this sleep out, it opened my eyes to their world.”

“I had mentally prepared myself for an uncomfortable and wet night. However it was not until after tonight the realization struck me… youth in Vancouver undergo this every night.”

“The Sleep Out isn’t about pretending to be homeless. It is to recognize the importance of groups like Covenant House and how they can help kids like us turn their lives around.”

“Although last night’s sleep was cold and uncomfortable, I am glad

to have done it with my class. I cannot imagine having to do what we did last night every night and alone.”

“I think that as a city, Vancouver needs to address this issue. I can’t imagine sleeping like this day after day. I would feel so run down, depressed and lonely. No youth should have to feel this way. We need to come together to end this cycle.”

At a time like this in our world, looking after each other, especially those most vulnerable, is so important.

Julia McCaig

Giving Ours is a community who loves to give.

The people who pick up, clean up, and show up. The people who lead. The people who follow. The people who quietly advise. The people who speak out.

The neighbour who notices that your lawn is looking ragged and that you are away at work, so cuts it for you. The kind person who buys your groceries because you again forgot your wallet.

Receiving We are a species that is wired to help.

When we volunteer we may start out with altruistic intent, but as we work at the task or cause, we receive countless benefits. Giving makes us better and makes us feel better.

Thank you for helping.

And thank you for making room for me to help.

David McCullum

Giving on Bowen Through the government’s Emergency Community Support Fund, we partnered with local charities and non-profits to answer the call to adapt and increase frontline services for vulnerable populations on Bowen during the pandemic.

And our Helping Hand Fund and Youth at Risk Fund both answered the call to provide emergency assistance to islanders in great need.

Bowen Island Community Foundation Bound together by the act of giving, we continually nurture our community to be stronger, healthier, wiser and more caring.

This has been an unprecedented year. No matter how many times we hear that phrase, it never seems to describe the depth of uncertainty and despair that this pandemic has caused our families, friends, and neighbours.

But your community foundation was able to answer the call for local assistance thanks to the generous giving of Bowen Islanders’ time, ideas, expertise, money, and energy.

The Resiliency Fund was established to answer the call to enable local charitable organizations and individuals to contribute to system-wide responses to our community’s needs.

More than 20 individuals answered the call through our Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grants to tackle social isolation, build community strength and resilience and foster community creativity and wellbeing.

We know that there is still much ahead of us to help rebuild the lives in our community that continue to be affected by COVID-19. We hope this year, in particular, you will answer the call to contribute to your Community Foundation and help lift us all up.

Please make a tax-receiptable donation with personal meaning for you and one that will have an impact on the community we all love. As our funds grow, so too will our ability to plan, adapt, and respond to the needs of our community.

contact us

www.bowenfoundation.com info@bowenfoundation.com https://www.facebook.com/ BowenIslandCommunityFoundation/

the other half. The Library Foundation will continue to “build” a better library by supporting the Library through COVID as new needs arise.

Bowen Island Public Library Foundation 430 Bowen Island Trunk Rd. Bowen Island, V0N 1G0 Supporting free and equal access to information The Bowen Island Public Library Foundation is the fundraising arm of the Bowen Island Library and was established in 1989 to “facilitate and fund the provision of materials and services at the Bowen Island Public Library”.

The Foundation supports library services by funding one-time projects and providing supplemental assistance in times of change or unforeseen circumstances.

At this difficult time for all, the Bowen Library seeks to provide stability for our island community by maintaining access to materials and keeping our doors open as much as possible. The Library Foundation supports this goal by providing opportunities for the Library to be nimble and flexible adapting to the shifting sands of the COVID-19 realities.

Some of the projects supported in the past include funding for Summer Reading Club staff wage support, improved library software systems, onetime collection enhancements, library renovations, and most recently the creation of the Cove Commons and the Library’s Annie Laurie Wood Annex.

Building a better library Working together with the Arts Council, the Library Foundation raised $1 million dollars to construct a 2900 square foot addition to the Library’s historic building called the Cove Commons. The Cove Commons opened in 2018 with the Arts Council’s Gallery in one half and the Library’s Annex in

Everyday* in the Library 175 people visit 183 items borrowed 160 wifi connections 22 questions answered 8 people attend a program 6 people use the public internet 1 new member joins the library *pre-COVID What the community says about the library “The Library feels like one of the things that makes Bowen a community” “A physical, safe public space to gather learn and connect” “The great leveler in our society, where everyone is welcome” Tax deductible donations The Foundation accepts donations online, in person or by mail.

Donate online through our website: https://bowenlibrary.ca/about-us/ support-the-library/donations/

contact us www.bowenlibrary.ca info@bowenlibrary.ca 604-947-9788

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Giving for our health

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM MATZEN

Pots such as these adorned Artisan Square this summer.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM MATZEN

The Well was among the recipients.

Giving Lavender love in Artisan Square If you dropped by Artisan Square this summer or fall you’ll have seen a couple of dozen beautiful blue pots filled with Lavender, Nepeta, Viburnum plicatum, Astilbe and Fuchsia. These planters are now bringing some added joy and love to the neighbourhood.

Thanks to funding provided through a Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grant from the Bowen Island Community Foundation’s Neighbourhood Small Grants Program, the Bowen Island

Municipality and the Vancouver Foundation these little planters of “Lavender Love” (and other shade friendly plants) now are sprinkled across Artisan Square.

Special thanks to Lynn Williams, Cameron Rolfe, Bowen Island Florists (Caroline, Devon and Chanelle) and my son Tyler for their help in making this happen. A little bit of joy in a COVIDcrazed era.

Tom Matzen

May we all be thankful for our general good health, especially in light of these trying COVID-19 times, and the efforts of all the healthcare professionals and essential workers who are helping us navigate these very trying times. Let us also give thanks to all those in our community and those communities throughout the world who willingly abide by the COVID-19 protocols.

On a happier note, thanks to both the Bowen Island Health Centre Committee and Foundation volunteers for their passionate dedication for a much needed medical facility on the island and to the many who have made a donation to this most worthy cause. Our col-

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A9

lective support of this initiative is all the more unique as this amenity will give back 24/7/365 to each and every member of the community for many decades so we can all be eternally thankful.

At some point in the future we can be certain some member(s) in our families will have to visit our on-island medical centre for some need or emergency and will be thankful the dream was turned into a reality. We appeal to everyone to help put the fundraising campaign over the top so if you have not already committed to a donation please do so now and give us all much more reason to be thankful. My wife and I are delighted to have supported such an essential need in our community.

Bruce & Dorene Russell

A giving anniversary: CAWES Coast Animal Welfare Education Society (CAWES) is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. The local non-profit marked the occasion with a special presentation with BIM a few weeks ago.

“Over the 20 years, CAWES has rescued hundreds of cats, some dogs, some birds and even rabbits that have been discarded in some way or another,” the society’s new (and first) executive director, Kim Sinclair explained. “We’ve trapped numerous feral cats and had them spayed or neutered to help control the stray cat population on the island.”

Sinclair also paid tribute to two women who were instrumental in building CAWES who have both since died: Iris Carr and Rosalee Parish On behalf of the municipality, BIM’s manager of environment Bonny Brokenshire thanked CAWES for all of its work.

CAWES is also holding a ‘winner’s choice’ raffle fundraiser where people can buy $10 raffle tickets for the chance to win a Stuart Slind oil painting (valued at $6,000). The winner gets to choose which painting they take home from a selection of the acclaimed artist’s works.

Giving on Bowen $6,000,000

CHALLENGE $ DONATION 500,000

$5,500,000

,

$5,240,000 $4,980,000 $4,720,000 $4,460,000 $4,200,000

WE NEED YOUR HELP FOR

LIFTOFF

10 MAY 2020

DONATE NOW! bowenhealthcentre.com

info@bowenhealthcentre.com

Give like your health depends on it.

$1,500,000 1 JAN 2020

to help residents through this difficult time.

generous donor has challenged

Creating a home for health care on Bowen

pledge to be triggered when

We have secured the land for a new health centre on Bowen.

And, with over $5 million in pledges and donations to-date, your community has made the Health Centre capital campaign the most successful fundraising drive in Bowen’s history. Now, a

our community with a $500,000 donations reach $5.5 million.

Help Bowen meet the challenge!

Go to bowenhealthcentre.com and make your contribution today. Consider giving the gift of health this holiday season with a donation in honour of someone on your gift list.

WHAT THE HEALTH CENTRE WILL BRING TO BOWEN BIHCF thanks TELUS for permission to place our sign at this location

Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation PO Box 316, Bowen Island

Bringing health care close to home Responding to COVID-19 This spring, as COVID-19 gripped the world, BIHCF – when we need it most hosted virtual Town Halls to provide the community with

Our mission at the Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation is to promote wellness, enhance the quality of life, and improve health security for all Bowen Island residents. In 2020, amid a global health crisis, we’ve made great strides in fulfilling this mission – but we need your help to get all the way there.

expert information and advice on the pandemic and how to cope with its many challenges.

With special emergency funds from the federal government, we worked with many Bowen front-line organizations to create or expand a range of programs

• Ready access to on-island primary health care when we need it • Team-based, community-focused health care delivery • Access to Vancouver Coastal Health services and programs • Convenience of a full dental practice • Ability to age in place on Bowen

BE A PART OF HISTORY - DONATE NOW AT BOWENHEALTHCENTRE.COM

contact us info@bowenhealthcentre.com Colleen O’Neil: 604-947-0232 Bill Brown: 604-947-9012

A10 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friends and family help in the face of cancer diagnosis

It was a year ago that I learned I had cancer. From the moment of my diagnosis, I found kindness on this beautiful island at the doctor’s office. I called friends and family that evening and by the next day my mom was on a plane from Toronto and I had my good friend planning the next steps.

I received immediate and constant support from my colleagues. They created a food train that seemed to reach the whole island through the connections made having taught at all three island schools. I’ve been so fortunate to find a calling that allows me to know the island’s children and their parents, and the meals that were brought to us helped me to gain weight during chemo, because I was eating something different and delicious all the time!

My friends organized rides to the hospital and took care of paperwork. Another friend started and maintained a GoFundMe for us, and so many people donated so much.

So much financial stress has been lifted because you gave.

We continue to benefit from what you gave.

Thank you to every kind soul that brought meals, donated money, gave me rides to the hospital, sent me letters, offered kind words, sent presents, and helped take care of my family.

And thank you to my children whose laughter and closeness brought me such joy, and to my spouse for all the times you dropped everything to give me comfort. Thank you, thank you. You are all wonderful.

Victoria van Schouwen

TRISTAN DEGGAN PHOTO

That SwimBowen magic of giving If ever there was a time for reminders of how small, community-based initiatives can have big, beautiful impacts it is now. The SwimBowen Society was conceived in 2018 with the idea of providing financial support to Bowen Island residents during cancer treatment. The idea has blossomed into powerful action with 22 Cancer Care Fund gifts totaling $28,500 given to date. We are in awe of the response to the open water fundraising events and the stunning generosity of our participants, donors, sponsors and volunteers. Even our pandemic response “Un Event” last July with a mere four swimmers raised almost $7,000. Incredible. Part of the SwimBowen magic is feeling empowered in the face of cancer, a disease that can make us feel so utterly powerless. The secret sauce is seeing our efforts in action making a real dif-

ference with our neighbours and friends during the hardest experience of all. Over the next four months you will be hearing a lot more from us as we launch our Cancer Care Fund Community Outreach Program generously funded in partnership with the Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation supported by the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund, Community Foundations of Canada, and the Bowen Island Community Foundation. We want SwimBowen and the Cancer Care Fund to become household words ensuring everyone knows and has access to the support we have waiting for you. Because sometimes it takes an island to get through cancer treatment!

Mary Letson & the SwimBowen Team

Giving on Bowen

BOWEN CHILDREN'S CENTRE WISHING YOU A SEASON FILLED WITH LIGHT & HOPE If our work speaks to your heart there are many ways to give

Bowen Island Community Centre Our Community Hub The Bowen Island Community Centre (BICC) will be a place for islanders to truly call their own. Imagine -- a dedicated public space where all can gather, share and participate in cultural and recreational activities and events that build and celebrate a healthy and resilient community. It will invigorate our lives through connection and help us stretch our understanding and perceptions of who we are as a community and how we can work, play and live together on our island. It will help us realize our community brand promise: “We are better for being here.”

contact us ourislandplace@bimbc.ca

https://www.ourislandplace.com/donate

Foxglove Fund (www.bowenfoundation.com/foxglove-fund/)

Volunteering & Donations Gail Taylor Bursary Nicolette McIntosh Education Bursary For more details... www.bowenchildrenscentre.ca/giving Inviting all Bowen children to visit the "Children's Tree" at the Festival of Trees & bring a wish for 2021 to hang on the tree

“It was devastating for me to have to leave Bowen."

“I work with Bowen's elders as a private home care aide and know first hand how this housing project will make a huge difference in the lives of the families on Bowen." “ If Snug Cove House had existed I would have stayed in my familiar community.”

“It has been absolutely heartbreaking to watch as our seniors struggle with the prospects of leaving behind the community they love.”

“Snug Cove House would add so very much to this proud community.”

“Moving off Bowen Island presents a much more profound life change than simply moving to another neighbourhood.”

“This project is perfect for Bowen Island.”

snugcovehouse.com

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A11

• WINTER 2020 •

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

970 seaview Place, Cates hill See inside for details on cover photo of 970 Seaview Place

Dee’s October and November SOLDS to date Lot 3 Douglas Road (sold as Buyer’s agent) 1335 Mt. Gardner Road - Co List with Frazer Elliott 1793 Olivia Terrace 974 Windjammer - Co List with Frazer Elliott 739 Minnows Lane 1102 Foxglove Lane

1247 Millers Road 1321 Hillcrest Road 1221 Adams Road 351 Josephine Drive 1544 Eaglecliff Road

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

604.612.7798 12 years

For more listings visit bowenhomes.ca

A12 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

on the cover

bowenislandundercurrent.com

New Listing 970 Seaview Place $1,349,000

An unique grove of Arbutus trees in various stages of growth helps make this property sta sta and out. Located near the top of Cates Hill, with expansive & ever-changing views acccross Snug Cove and Howe Sound to the North Shore Mountains. Cozy in winter, with a an a n open plan, kitch, DR, LR & den - all warmed by the fireplace & a hearth created by giiifted craftsman -Nicholas Purcell. Antique stained-glass windows add a gorgeous touch g & lighting between the hallway & den. In warmer months, the main flr opens to a large ex xtended deck taking life outside. The upper level is a mstr suite including an office area, e x bd b drm & mstr ensuite with combined shower/steamer. On the lower level 2 bdrms and a d FFR R opening to the garden area. Close to amenities of Snug Cove – near trails, Artisan Sq quare & the school.

S q

New Listing

1096 Foxglove Lane $779,000

Within one of Bowen’s newest developments, W 10 10 096 Foxglove is the last unit available in this ttw wo unit strata. Enjoy stress free living and w exxxcellent Bowen value from this new build e iin ncludes New Home Warranty. Three bedrooms an nd 1.5 bathrooms makes this the ideal place for a n a family. An easy stroll to Snug Cove, the school, an nd the ferry, and close to the future Community a n Center & BI Health Center. Enjoy natural Bowen with numerous hiking trails, Killarney Lake and w Brrridal Falls nearby. GST applicable B

360 3 60 C Creek k $ $1,200.000 $1 12 200 00 0 000 00 C Co-list llii with ihF Frazer E Elliott Elli lli

044 Grafton $1,399,000 10

Se Se ecluded and set back in Scarborough, this Bowen home is charming, well cared-for, and perfect for those looking for a turn-key property in w a family-friendly neighbourhood. Extensively renovated and recently up u pdated with tasteful and high-end appointments throughout, including p ne ew flooring and a new walnut and silestone gourmet kitchen. Three n e be edrooms above, with an expansive master suite. Work from home b e with flexible options for private offices. Other features include a hot w ub and new driveway. All on a south facing slope, with a covered ttu u eck opening out to a fenced in garden complete with fruit trees, de iirrrigation, and a small detached hobby studio. On the bus routes, and close to Scarborough Beach and walking trails.

6..5 acres of stunning, flat, sun-soaked gardens criss6 ccrro ossed by meandering brooks – this is one of the prrremier pieces of property on Bowen within the p A Ag g gricultural Land Reserve. Pink Chestnut trees flank tthe he entrance and driveway, leading to two separate Pa P anabode homes – one 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, a an nd another 4 bedrooms and 1 bath. Start your love a n affffair with this gorgeous property by viewing the a vvid id deo tour, and call for more details

9 49 A rbut Bay Lane $3,990,000 949 Arbutus Arbut

En nter through the gates to one of Bowen’s most exclusive Estates.

Drive down to the house past two 2 car garages each with their D ow o wn separate living/studio/ conference room space above. w LLo ocated on the sunny south end of Bowen on 1.45 acres with o an expansive view over the Salish Sea to Vancouver Island. he main house features an exquisite living room with stunning Th eams and a high vaulted ceiling, plus gourmet kitchen. Four be edrooms and five bathrooms. Large deck off the main living be oor provides a year entertainment area with a covered outdoor flflo o ounging area, stone surround fireplace and hot tub. Downstairs llo o ha as a huge recreation room and gym, a media room, and a h a wine room. A short walk to Alder Cove Beach and across the w sstttreet from the 2nd hole of the Bowen Island Golf Club.

1531 Eaglecliff Road $1,998,000 Waterfront

En nticing east south east-facing Eaglecliff waterfront estate on 1.75 acres. The main home features three bedrooms, Den, Fa amily Room opening on to the kitchen and a sun-drenched eck with a sunken pool. The property has a stunning de anoramic outlook towards Horseshoe Bay and Passage pa Island. Also included is a gorgeous Doug berry designed etached one-bedroom cottage – which is set away from the de main house for total privacy. The main house and property m eeds some TLC, but is an excellent opportunity to snag a rare ne owen waterfront acreage.

Bo

892 Schooner $699,000 8

Esscape from the City life to this little cottage in Bluewater.

Es Pa P anoramic views over Keats Island and the Sunshine Coast. a Ro R ound cottage said to be a PNE prize home from the o 60’s sits atop this .4 of an acre property. 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom provides a comfortable living space while you cco ontemplate the endless possibilities of what could be built on o tth his gorgeous property. h

1519 Williams Road $1,585,000

Architecturally designed West Coast Modern home by Hassell Griblin. The split level flow of the home offers intriguing spaces to live, work and play. Privately located at the end of quiet road in Eaglecliff. High bank waterfront with 1.4 acres, waiting for you to reconstruct the trail to the ocean side below. Expansive ocean and mountain views across Howe Sound. Watch the sun rise above the mountain range of the Sea to Sky corridor and the never ending diversity and ocean activity that this waterfront home provides.

1100 Foxglove $798,000

The first finished flat listed for sale on Foxglove Lane! This b brand rand n new ew a apartment partment ffeatures eatures three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, covered deck and own carport. Built by Bowen Island craftsmen, and featuring the new home 2-5-10 warranty. Pre-wired for solar panels, metal roof, hardwood flooring, 9’ ceilings on the main level and carefully designed for sound-proofing. Engineered quarty counter tops and back splash and a 5-year appliance warranty. Built green with attention to detail. New home living within easy walking distance of everything – the school, ferry, stores, restaurants and Crippen Park’s tranquil trails. GST applicable. Certified Built Green Gold.

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

12 years

604.612.7798

bowenhomes.ca

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A13

COMING SOON Stunning Modern Luxury

NEW

3 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms

1285 Scarborough Road

•

plus

1 bed guest suite

$1,098,000

With a sense of English flair, this lovingly cared for family home will envelope you with its charm and warmth. Special touches like wooden plantation shutters, artistic wall treatments, and a wood-burning fireplace provide for a cozy cottage vibe.

Downstairs, the bright 1 bed / 1 bath guest suite, with separate entry and in-suite laundy, is perfect for a mortgage helper or for extended family.

604.220.7085

MARY LYNN MACHADO

buyonbowen.com

For Sale

REALTOR®

Frazer’s October and November Solds

1257 Adams Road

Three to four bedroom versatile family home on a sunny nearly half an acre. Lots of room to garden.

$789,000 #207 - 726A Belterra Road A charming studio apartment with views of the North Shore Mountains. Includes access to Common Building and Gardens.

962 Seaview Place

1102 Foxglove Lane

1693 Malkin Creek Road Sold as Buyer’s Agent

Sold as Buyer’s Agent

$479,000

1335 Mount Gardner Road Co-listed with Dee Elliott Personal Real Estate Corporation

Lots 3 and 4 Foxglove Lane Fully serviced single family building lots.

A fantastic investment opportunity. Lot 11 (duplex) also available for $382,000.

$326,000 Rem. District Lot 3042 * Co-listed with Dee Elliott Personal Real Estate Corporation. Forty-seven acres of development potential in Bluewater - to the east of Schooner Road.

1324 Catalina Road and 1325 Oceanview Road

$3,500,000

Specializing in BOWEN ISLAND and HOWE SOUND

FRAZER ELLIOTT REALTOR®

Lot 3 Douglas Road

347 Aerie Tree Lane Co-listed with Dee Elliott Personal Real Estate Corporation

604.910.3401 felliottbowen@gmail.com www.bowenhomes.ca

974 Windjammer Road Co-listed with Dee Elliott Personal Real Estate Corporation

A14 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

923 ELROND’S COURT

$1,328,000

240 SHORE LANE

3 BED / 2.5 BATH / 1885 sq.ft.

$1,360,000 3 BED / 2.5 BATH / 1890 sq.ft.

Cozy Up In Cates Hill. Tucked away at the end of Elrond’s Court, this picture perfect home awaits the next family to join the neighbourhood. Set high above Cates Hill this property enjoys excellent light exposure throughout the seasons & late into summer evenings. Enjoy coastal mountain views, basking in the glow of sunsets or snow capped in the winter months. Follow the nearby trails to Artisan Square or Snug Cove for all the local amenities. Stay connected with your loved ones in the open concept plan. Stoke the wood stove on autumn & winter nights marvelling at the moonrise. Outdoor patios & fenced gardens add to the mix.

Soak in the impressive views from Seymour Shores. City, ocean and mountain views are yours to enjoy from this quality new build boasting beautiful design fixtures and finishes. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure this exceptional unit with expansive sundeck plus a lower level covered patio for enjoying the stunning scenery of Seymour Bay and beyond. Vaulted ceilings on the main level compliment an open concept plan with the convenience of a master & ensuite on this level plus a powder room for guests. The lower level encompasses a family room, two additional bedrooms, generous sized bathroom plus laundry room and storage.

935 FAIRWAY LANE

SOLD LISTINGS

$495,000 0.45 ACRE BUILDING LOT

Envision overlooking Bowen Island’s critically acclaimed golf course taking in the serene views morning through evening.

South facing and on Bowen’s south end this building lot enjoys excellent light exposure throughout the seasons. A

848 WINDJAMMER RD

341 AERIE TREE LANE

1749 EMILY LANE

relatively flat and cleared lot lend to ease of building. Water and sewerage connection available. Walking trails outside your door and beautiful beaches within 15 minutes walk.

907 RIVENDELL DRIVE

Sold As Buyer’s Agent

Personal Real Estate Corporation

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A15

Dollar volume of sales up 109 per cent

BOWEN HAS MOVED FROM A BALANCED TO A SELLERS MARKET TIMOTHY RHODES

YoY Dollar Volume – 6 Months – May-Oct 2020 $86,951,017 $38,848,548

2020

Contributor The Bowen Island detached home market continued to out-perform 2019 in all indicators. The dollar volume growth rate year-over-year (the past 12 months of activity) was up 109 per cent compared to 2019, the number of sales was up 60 per cent, the average sold price was up 30 per cent, the average sold price per square foot was up 24 per cent, and the MLS®HPI was up 1 per cent.

After decline of almost $250,000 during the 11 months from June, 2018, through May, 2020, the YoY average sold price grew by over $350,000 in the 5 months from June, 2020, through October , 2020, to 9 per cent higher than the previous all-time high in June 2018. During the same period, the median sold price increased by $230,000 to 11 per cent above its all-time high in June, 2018, and the MLS® HPI or benchmark price grew by $39,000 ending just 1 per cent below its all-time high in March, 2019.

This dramatic difference was in part attributable to higher list price inventory coming to market while lower price inventory became relatively scarce. Thirty per cent of sales YoY at October were under $999,999 compared to 57 per cent for 2019, sales between $1.0-$1.5 million were up 11 per cent, and 23 per cent of sales brought over $1.5 million compared to just 2 per

2019

cent in 2019. These larger and higher-price homes were well received by buyers.

In the Vancouver Sun, (20 November 2020, p. A13), Douglas Todd quotes real estate analyst Steven Saretsky: ‘As long as this pandemic is with us, it’s hard to imagine consumer preferences changing anytime soon. The massive exodus to the suburbs continues. [...] Evidently those who kept their jobs are eager to up size.’

Telecommuting, at least part-time, has come of age and room for a home office and access to good digital communications is essential, while the time it takes to commute is of less concern. Bowen Island is relatively affordable—the sixth lowest MLS® HPI in Metro Vancouver—and offers typically larger lots, good schools, Metro Vancouver’s lowest crime rate, rural ambiance, and lots of elbow room, trails, and green space—all within striking distance of Vancouver.

These aspects combined with low inventory helped move Bowen Island from a balanced market to a sellers’ market during October.

Timothy Rhodes, REALTOR® rhodesonbowen.com Angell Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd. Data represents the MLS® detached home data only as 18 November 2020. Data source © 2020 Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver. All rights reserved. Data deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

0 10MM

YoY Dollar Volume - 12 Months at 31 October

124%

30MM

50MM

70MM

$95,,763,,517 $45,799,048

2020 2019 0

90MM

25MM

YoY October Sold Price Categories 35 30 20

22

10 0

2020 < $1.0MM

2019 0

1 $1.0-$1.5MM

2019

$1.4MM

100MM

+34%

$0.5MM

$1.0MM

$1,,341,,528 $1,029,524

2020

1

0 $1.5-$3.0MM

75MM

Y0Y Average Sold Price

8

3

$1,,368,,614 $1,,018,,553

2020 21

19

14

50MM

YtD Averagge Sold Price

31

27

109%

2019

2018 >$3.0MM

0

+30%

$0.5MM

$1.0MM

BOWEN ISLAND YoY Average Sale Price, Median Sale Price, MLS® HPI 12 Moontthss Acctivitty at 31 October

$1.2MM

$1.0MM

$0.8MM

Averagge Sale Median Sale $0.6MM $0.5MM 01-2010

MLS® HPI 01-2011

01-2012

01-2013

01-2014

01-2015

01-2016

01-2017

01-2018

01-2019

01-2020

VBD - Bowen Island Detached (All) Each data point is 12 months of activity, Data is from November 18, 2020

RIVENDELL HEIGHTS AT THE SHIRE

5 5 LOT 5 5 5 Trail to Ar 5 5 tis 5 5 5LOT 4 5 5 an Squa 5 re 5 5LOT 3 5 5 (and Utilit 5 ies 5 5LOT 2 5 5 5 ) LOT 1 HOLD 5 5 RI V Strata Lot 11

0.24 ac 960 m2

THE SHIRE (subject to rezoning)

Strata Lot 12

0.24 ac 960 m2

0.24 ac 955 m2

Strata Lot 13 Strata Lot 14

0.24 ac 975 m2

0.24 ac 953 m2

EN D

SOLD

This is not an offering for sale. Any such offering can only be made with the applicable disclosure statement.

Prices & descriptions of real estate in this publication are subject to change without prior notice. E.&O.E.

HOLD

LOT 7 0.36 ac 1,472 m2

Bowen Island Properties LP www.bowenislandproperties.ca 604-947-0000

Since 1988, building communities where people love to live

Artisan Square Strata Lot 10

N O R T H

PHASE 2 lots at Rivendell Heights are now available for pre-sale! These fully-serviced lots are THE LAST single-family lots planned within our Cates Hill development. With only 3 of the 7 lots available, the opportunity to build a new single-family home in desirable Cates Hill is becoming increasingly limited. These panoramic view lots join the neighbouring Phase 1 homes in capturing the stunning view of Mt. Gardner, Killarney Lake, and beyond to Gambier Island and the Sunshine Coast. Easy access to a network of trails and roads that connect the Cates Hill neighbourhood by a short walk to Snug Cove, the ferry, schools, shops and parks.

LOT 2 $442,000 LOT 4 $442,000 LOT 5 $449,000

Strata Lot 9



PRICE LIST (LOTS ONLY) (Add GST)

Boundary of Buildable Area

5

EL L

DR IV E

LOT 6

NEW HOME COMING 2021

PHASE 1 SOLD OUT 5

0.36 ac 1,448 m2

4

Rivendell Retreat Green Belt

RIVENDELL DRIVE

3

A16 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Vaune Kolber - Bowen’s Bridge to the City

1308 Oceanview Road $875,000

GREAT NEWS! You get a second chance at a Christmas miracle! This home is now available for quick possession, you could still have a home for the holidays! There are only 2 houses left under $900,000 on Bowen. This might be your last, best, opportunity to own a house.

604.338.3072 SHANA@SHANARICHMOND.COM

SHANA RICHMOND

“ “ “

If you are thinking of selling, there has never been a better time.

I’m here to help.

Vaune has been my real estate agent for two investment property purchases.

I would highly recommend her to anyone looking to buy or to sell real estate, and have referred her to my friends. Vaune is extremely hardworking, communicative, diligent, and market-savvy. Any future property purchases I make will definitely be handled by her.

Laura

”

I have been through the process of buying/selling properties at least 10 times, and can unreservedly say that Vaune is the realtor I’ve liked working with the most by a long shot. She is most decidedly the hardest working realtor I know, and I simply love her personality and approach. She really had our interest at heart, and put that foremost in her dealings with us.

Bertrand

”

Our purchases both went smoothly and were handled professionally. We greatly appreciate that Vaune took the time to listen to our ideas and dreams ALWAYS --however often they changed!

Rebecca

”

Vaune Kolber, Realtor® BetteronBowen.com 604-506-7534 kolber@dexterrealty.com

holiday local

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A17

A SELLERS’ MARKET

RHODES ON BOWEN

Ask me about the 8-WEEK MARKETING PLAN.

Timothy Rhodes

SOLD

Representing sellers and buyers with professional, creative, and discrete service informed by an architectural, interior, and graphic design background.

REAL ESTATE MARKETING REALTOR®

604-341-9488 tim@rhodesonbowen.com

rhodesonbowen.com

Lot E, Robinson Road List - $1,400,000 Buyer’s Agent

1218 Miller rd. • $1,291,000

1156 Senator rd. • $985,000

This superb contemporary 4 bedroom, 4 bathrooms home is, simply one of a kind.

The front stairs take you to a home that is truly unique, surrounded by mature grapevines, fig-trees, and many more well-established feature plants. Vegetable gardens and still space to develop in this usable 1/2 acre property. From the welcoming solarium all the way to the bedrooms upstairs you find interesting details that make this home special. Super comfortable heated ceramic tile floors, sunken solarium, two master bedrooms each with a gorgeously finished ensuite bathroom. Vaulted ceilings, rough cedar, ceramic tiles, natural wood, and travertine throughout. High-end stainless steel appliances, gas oversize range, attractive and super-efficient Regency stand-alone wood stove for those cold winter nights. You’ll be completely comfortable every day and on the occasional power outages as well. Walking distance to the ferry, stores, schools, beaches, trails, and on the bus route. Plus an in-law suite with its own driveway.

INVESTORS ALERT LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! This home is in a superb location with magnificent ocean and mountain views.

TLC required. Enjoy the sunrise from your living room in the mornings and sunsets reflected on the not so distant mountain ranges while you’re having a glass of wine with dinner in the evenings. Two separate suites. The upstairs has 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, downstairs 2 bedroom suite, The solarium doubles up as a music room and it is surrounded by beautiful mature trees. You don’t need a car, 3 mins away from pebbly beach and a short walk to the ferry, stores, schools, beaches, and trails.

Bonus! Make an appointment to view this special home.

carmendives@gmail.com

Carmen Dives 604-802-8267

www.bowenislandproperties.com If you are thinking of selling or buying a home Call Peter for a Complimentary Market Analysis and friendly knowledgeable advice.

Peter Dives 604-802-8559

divespeter@gmail.com

www.bowenislandproperties.com

A18 â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

The COVID-19 pandemic in Canada is serious.

Continue to practise all public health measures: Follow local guidelines for gatherings Maintain physical distancing Wash your hands Wear a mask Stay home if you have symptoms, even mild ones Download the COVID Alert app

Protect yourself and others.

Learn more at Canada.ca/coronavirus or 1-833-784-4397.

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A19

Going electric: islanders buy first vehicle in decades PETER WING, CLAIRE WEEKS

Contributors

Until a month ago when we bought our robin’s egg blue electric Fiat, pictured here in the simpatico company of two Nissan Leafs, we had not owned a car for nearly 25 years.

We generally managed very well without one but would rent for short periods of time as needed, not infrequently when coming to Bowen with our cat who didn’t like travelling by bus from our condo in Vancouver. Our local Avis franchise in town was kind to us and always seemed to have one available at a moderate price. Renting proved to be simpler, cheaper and far more flexible than owning, as we could choose the kind of vehicle we needed.

Not having a car, we walked and cycled a lot and this was both fun and healthy. But, well into our 70s now, we realized that diminishing mobility would likely become an issue for one or the other or both of us, so we decided last fall to take advantage of the BC Hydro rebate to install a type two charger here on Bowen. We were able to buy from a Canadian online distributor at a discount price in the pre-Christmas sale and had a very professional installation done by Bowen‘s Tyler Jacquette in time to get our $700 rebate. But we still had no definite plans to get a car, despite having taken several for test drives last year.

When the pandemic struck in earnest this spring, we decided to spend all our time on Bowen where we felt far safer. We rented a big car in Vancouver, delivered a load of clothes, staples and gear of various kinds to Bowen, then returned the rental vehicle and cycled back to Bowen. We took advantage of the generous delivery services of the Ruddy and the General Store and put in a large order to them alternately, each week. Otherwise, we made our way around the island on foot and on bikes, mostly for recreation and always safely isolated from others.

Four weeks ago, in Vancouver for the first time, we were

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The robin’s egg blue fiat that has charmed Peter Wing & Claire Weeks.

walking near Cambie and Broadway, when Peter suggested to Claire (reluctant to buy any car) that maybe, with increasingly wet and dark weather, it was time to seriously consider buying a car. We agreed that we would consider only an electric car for environmental reasons, and that we’d want one that was fun to drive, small, cute and stylish…kinda like the Fiat 500 that was parked right next to us as we chatted!

Peter is somewhat caffeine intolerant and had too much dark chocolate after supper that night. Eyes wide open after half an hour with the lights out, he checked Google and YouTube and learned that a number of 500e Fiats were available for sale in the Vancouver area. We learned that this little car was produced from 2013 to 2017 by Fiat Chrysler in North America, in order to drop the fuel consumption average for the fleet from that manufacturer to comply with state regulations in California and Oregon. Dubbed “compliance cars”, they were lease-only, for three years. Those cars now available in Vancouver were coming off lease, mostly with

only 20 to 30,000 kilometers on the odometer, and were selling for about one-third the price of a new midsize Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) from one of the other major e-car manufacturers.

YouTube reviews of the Fiat 500e by the owners were enthusiastic, and we found no mention of problems such as the rare battery fires described from some manufacturers.

The battery packs and transmissions were developed and produced by Bosch, and the low centre of gravity with an upgraded suspension reportedly made the car responsive and a delight to drive. Its quite limited range of about 120 kilometers is fine for a day traveling around Vancouver or Bowen and commuting between the two. Only one person acknowledged a battery problem early on which was quickly remedied under warranty. Furthermore, it now appears that expertise in the private sector has enabled battery repair if one or two cells become faulty. No-one has described early failure of the Fiat’s liquid-cooled battery.

We have now put a few hundred km on the car, our perfect island car. The cost of recharging it from empty for four hours on our type 2 charger has turned out to be about $3 or $4 on the higher step rate charged by BC Hydro. We’re adjusting to the G-forces as it accelerates…even up the 16 per cent grade out of Bowen Bay, and, although the energy cost of this is steep, we love to watch the anticipated range increase with regenerative braking on the steep downhill run home. It is quiet. It has four seats – the rear two meant for smaller folks and shorter distances – and with the two rear seats down easily accommodates a couple of months recycling.

ICBC stats for 2019 showed 58 electric and 77 hybrid vehicles registered on Bowen. We wonder how many more Bowenites, other than the owners of the Leafs shown in the photo, have adopted e-vehicles and what the owners’ experiences are. Perhaps the Undercurrent would like to investigate?

WhMaekresea YDifofeureBncae nk firstcu.ca (604) 947-2022

106-996 Dorman Rd

A20 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Weihnachtskuchen GERMAN CHRISTMAS CAKE

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Book your complimentary meet & greet and first walk or drop in. Rates are $25 for group hikes and start at $15 for drop-ins.

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Jo Hayes of the Snug Café and Artisan Eats shares her fruit cake recipe, a longstanding Hayes family tradition.

Ingredients 250 g Currants 250 g Sultanas 250 g Seedless raisins 175 ml Water 375 g Butter 5 Eggs, lightly beaten 270 g Soft brown sugar 420 g Flour, sifted 3 ml Dried all spice 10 ml Cocoa powder, sifted 10 ml Bicarbonate soda ** 250 g Glace cherries (red & green), washed & halved 375 g Pecan halves Directions: In a saucepan combine currants, sultanas, raisins, water and boil for 10 minutes. Remove from heat, add butter, stir well and leave to cool. When cold, add eggs and sugar, mix well, fold in flour, spice, cocoa and soda.

Grease an 8-inch round

PHOTO COURTESY OF JO HAYES

deep cake pan or tin and line with wax paper. Spoon half of the mixture to cover the base, sprinkle over half of the cherries and nuts.

Cover with remaining mixture, level the surface and decorate with remaining cherries and nuts. Alternate green and red cherries with a pecan for a beautifully decorated cake.

Bake at 300°F for 1.5 hours. Then reduce to 250°F for 1.5 hours or until skewer comes out clean.

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bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A21

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ONGOING

Letters to Santa Nov. 15 to Dec. 15 For an express delivery to the North Pole, write a letter to Santa and drop it into the red mailbox at the Recreation office. Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Bowen Island Winter Fair Online Nov. 21 to Dec. 22.

An online version of the winter market Saturday mornings at Collins’ Hall.

Visit facebook.com/ events/738063303466214/ to see Bowen-made products!

Arts Pacific Gallery gift certificate draw Nov. 20 to Dec. 20 Enter to win a $100 Gift Certificate from Arts Pacific Gallery at the Artisan Square storefront

FRIDAY NOV. 27

Drive-through dinner at the Legion Legion 4:30 p.m. to sold out Roasted chicken, green beens, lemon potato and

lemon bars. All dinners by donation. Cash or cheques are welcome.

not raining because studio across a very wet garden.

SATURDAY NOV. 28

Hearth Annual General Meeting Zoom 3 p.m. Review our past year of Arts on Bowen; Financial Update; Plans for our future. Pre-registration required, Submit any questions/comments and interest to participate in the AGM: executivedirector@ thehearth.ca

Winter market Little Red Church 10 a.m.noon “Make the weekends merrier with fresh produce, jams, sweets, baked goods, handcrafted items and more from your favourite local farmers and artisans” IPS Cyber Soiree 6:30 p.m.

Celebrate IPS’s 25th anniversary with a special soiree. More information at islandpacific.org.

Emily’s Holiday Art Sale 602 Collins Rd. Noon- 5p.m.

Open studio for a few hours of holiday shopping, including recent abstract paintings, paintings from vegetation collection, intaglio & double-sided monoprints, one-of-akind reclaimed garments, SuperMAMA t-shirts & project books. Masks & phsyical distancing mandatory. Keep visits brief.

Bring rain rain boots even if

SUNDAY NOV 29

MONDAY NOV. 30

Vancouver Coastal Health virtual open board forum, Sea to Sky, Sunshine & Central Coasts Online 6:30-8:30 p.m. Virtual meeting to join conversation with VCH board and for them to hear from the public. RSVP eepurl.com/ hdvt4b

TUESDAY DEC. 1

Islands Trust council meeting Online 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. collaboratevideo.net/ MaxPlayer98/default.aspx Islands Trust town hall Online 7-9 p.m.

Hood Point Water System Local Advisory Committee Meeting Zoom 1 pm

WEDNESDAY DEC. 2

Islands Trust council meeting Online 9 a.m.- noon

Tunstall Bay Water System Local Advisory Committee Meeting Zoom 3 pm

THURSDAY DEC. 3

Islands Trust council meeting Online 9 a.m.-noon

King Edward Bay Water System Local Advisory Committee Meeting Zoom 1 pm Bowen Bay Water System Local Advisory Committee Meeting Zoom 3 pm

FRIDAY DEC. 4

Drive-through dinner at the Legion 4:30 p.m. to sold out; Gumbo, rice, greens with pound cake. All dinners by donation. Cash or cheques are welcome.

SATURDAY DEC. 5

Winter market Little Red Church 10 a.m.noon

SUNDAY DEC. 6

Light Up Bowen All lights will be on by Dec. 6; get in the spirit and decorate your own home with the Light Up Your Home Challenge

MONDAY DEC. 7

Cove Bay Water System Local Advisory Committee Meeting Zoom 3 pm

TUESDAY DEC. 8

Snug Cove Sewer Local Management Committee Meeting Zoom 1 pm Bluewater Park Water System Local Advisory Committee Meeting Zoom 3 pm

THURSDAY DEC. 10

Light Up Your Home challenge winners announced

Eagle Cliff Water System Local Advisory Committee Meeting

Zoom 2:30 pm

FRIDAY DEC. 11

Drive-through dinner at the Legion 4:30 p.m. to sold out; Roast beef, mashed potatoes, roasted root veggies, gravy, yorkshire pudding and treacle pudding cake. All dinners by donation. Cash or cheques are welcome.

SATURDAY DEC. 12

Winter market Little Red Church 10 a.m.noon CAWES Winner’s Choice Raffle 7 p.m. More information at cawes.org

SUNDAY DEC. 13

Christmas Carol Live-streamed 7:30 pm 22nd annual reading

MONDAY DEC. 14

Regular Council Meeting Zoom 6:15 pm Have a submission for the calendar? Send to editor@ bowenislandundercurrent. com

Patients of the Week SEVEN KITTENS This adorable litter of 7 kittens and their mom came to visit us here at Bowen Vet. A lovely Bowen lady recused the mom

REGULAR HOURS Tuesday to Friday 9- 5 Saturday 9- 1 Closed Sunday and Monday

and they found out shortly after that she was pregnant. These 7 kittens came in for their first exam and now are all healthy to go to their forever homes.

To schedule appointments, please call

604.947.9247

or email reception@bowenvet.com

A22 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

NATURE CLUB

ROTARY CLUB NOVEMBER UPDATES

Do you know the difference?

HAIR VS. HOAR FROST

ALAN WHITEHEAD

Bowen Nature Club

Freezing temperatures create two types of frost on Bowen Island: hoar frost and hair frost. Hoar frost is the most common; it occurs most often as patches of white in open, low-lying areas where freezing air pools overnight. It becomes more widespread when the entire land surface is exposed to sub-zero temperatures. Hair frost, on the other hand, is less obvious though not uncommon under specific conditions in our moist forests. Whereas hoar frost can occur throughout the winter and shoulder seasons when temperatures dip below zero Celsius, hair frost seems to be limited to the early part of winter, while there is still a lot of moisture in the undergrowth. Their origins are quite different.

Hoar frost forms when water vapour in the air that, in the process of freezing, condenses directly into ice on solid surfaces that are also frozen. In fact, under certain conditions, when air currents deliver new moisture, hoar frost can form again on top of older frost or snow, creating a beautiful landscape.

Hair frost originates, not from water vapour, but from water contained within dead twigs and branches, particularly of red alder, that have been soaked through by the

Seafood Water Fountain Project

ALAN WHITEHEAD PHOTO

Hoar frost forms from water vapour in the air.

No, we aren’t installing seafood into a water fountain! But we will be selling Christmas seafood in an effort to raise funds for installing a water fountain at the ferry dock. We will be offering tuna, cod, salmon (both smoked and fresh frozen) and prawns in mid-December for your Christmas dining pleasure. Check out Facebook and your email feed for upcoming information.

AEDs

ALAN WHITEHEAD PHOTO

Hair frost forms from the water within.

rains. This internal water expands as it freezes and, as a result, gets extruded through the pores of the wood’s cellular structure, forming thin white hairs. These hairs can continue to grow until all the water in the saturated wood has been expelled. In some situations, the hairs take on the appearance of dense whiskers, much like a moustache. However, the moustache will quickly disappear when melted by the breath of a human or other warm-blooded animal.

As temperatures drop, keep a lookout for these two types of frost during your winter walks.

Nature Matters is an occasional column of the Bowen Nature Club, dedicated since 1985 to the enjoyment, understanding, and preservation of Bowen’s diversity. For more information: bowennatureclub.blogspot.com.

There are 20 of these small, lightweight and portable electronic devices (that deliver an electric shock through the chest wall of a person whose heart has stopped beating) on site on Bowen Island, and more to come. Please see the BIM Emergency program website for locations, and contact Allard Ockeloen (allard.cypress@gmail. com) if you are interested in Rotary help for installing an AED in your area.

Rotary’s contribution to the Health Centre Foundation

As a result of our spring bulb project, well supported by Bowen Islanders, Sheila Webster who championed the project has handed a cheque for $1,174.25 to Tim Rhodes of the foundation.

House Number signs

Bowen has sold over 350 signs over the past three years but there are still properties that are tough for visitors and delivery people to find. Either there are no signs at all or they are poorly displayed and difficult to see, particularly at night. In some

areas, there are large gaps in consecutive numbers (say 1343 to 1353); some properties share a common private entry on a main road with no indication of numbers up the driveway. Overall, our blue Rotary signs have appeared on many roads since the start of our project but there is still a long way to go. If you would like more information, check out the Rotary website (bowenrotary.com). And remember to display your sign prominently and securely once you have received it.

Rotary project for refundables

Last year Rotary contributed to a new bin cover for refundables, and this year (thanks to our dedicated group of volunteers who sorted cans and bottles in July) we are contributing $1,000 to cover part of the cost of a tent to protect the outdoors beverage can and bottle bins that are currently open to wind and weather. Hopefully, this tent will be erected soon, with the current weather making present conditions very muddy for workers and recyclers.

Reflective Lights

Rotary has a limited number of reflective lights for distribution again this year. Please check on the counter at Cates Pharmacy for a free reflector. And when purchasing a new rain jacket, remember that black coats are cool but dangerous at this time of year.

Rotary club holds Zoom meetings on the second and fourth Thursday evenings every month. We host a variety of interesting speakers and the public is welcome to attend. More info: bowenrotary.com.

Somebody you love would love this t-shirt

Guaranteed delivery before Christmas on all orders placed before December 15th Shop now at bcisawesome.com

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ A23

Thank you, Bowen Island

A24 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Muni Morsels: controversial DVP proceeds, tough tax decisions to come CONTINUED FROM P. 1

Ander was willing to support the policy with the understanding that it’s revisited in a year’s time to see how relevant it is and how much it’s costing.

Coun. Rob Wynen was in full support of a “consistent policy,” noting that Bowen doesn’t have off-road facilities – bike lanes, sidewalks, curbs – so everyone uses the road. “I do think there are areas where we need to start looking at some ways of slowing some of the speeders down,” said Wynen, adding that he thinks most people on Bowen are “pretty good.”

Coun. Sue Ellen Fast voiced similar sentiments to Wynen. “I’m somebody who’s ridden horses and pushed those strollers and I still ride my bike,” she said. “We’re all traffic participants. And I think this lets us have a more safe and equal kind of travel experience.”

Coun. Alison Morse was the lone vote against the policy, citing lack of data or proof of excessive speeding on Bowen and calling the policy “a citified traffic management report for a rural community.” She also had concerns about budget allocations for calming measures.

While Coun. Maureen Nicholson said she shared some of Morse’s concerns, they could be dealt with within public works, and the poli-

cy offers a framework that’s not yet in existence.

Coun. Michael Kaile supported the policy with the understanding that it be brought back to council in a year’s time.

Ecclestone Beach

The matter of public access to a pocket beach on Miller’s Landing dominated the public comments and delegation sections of the council agenda. Two homes back onto Ecclestone Beach with a road right-of-way skirting one side of one of the properties.

Neighbourhood members say that they’d been able to access the beach via the public access until a few years ago when a structure was built in the way. Others say that the road access has been little used in recent years and that the only way to the beach has been through private property. The current owners of the land abutting the right-ofway are applying to the province for permission for a dock, which has raised questions about whether said dock would divide a public beach (which is not allowed under bylaw). The dock application didn’t come before council Monday as the applicants are looking at the dock design and balancing interests. “We wish to further investigate with the municipal staff if there’s a way to construct

holiday local

the dock and allow for passage, so interested parties can access the pocket beach,” said applicant Tim Klauke at the meeting.

The Undercurrent will revisit this story in more depth in a future edition.

Development permit

In a five-to-two vote, council opted to issue a development variance permit for a Tunstall Bay waterfront property that seeks to reduce the sea setback by five metres. (Sea setback DVPs are fairly common.)

“Several key concerns did come up and they were mainly around… potential environmental impacts from this reduction in sea setback,” said community planner Emma Chow. “There were also concerns on community impact to the recreational use of the surrounding area, the very popular Tunstall Bay Beach and the bay itself.”

In exchange for the setback and to address the concerns, the property owner agreed to a restrictive covenant over much of the property to protect it from development, including along the shoreline.

BIM’s Parks, Trails and Greenways Committee was unanimously opposed to the DVP, as were five of the six letters sent to council on the matter, and several speakers in the open comment

section of the meeting citing environmental and recreational concerns.

Chow noted that the location of the house is mostly hidden from view of the beach and without a restrictive covenant, the property owner could have blasting, tree clearing, fence building and structures smaller than 10 metres all the way up to the shoreline.

“If the house were to be sited further away from the sea…it may entail significantly more tree removal for views and for access to water,” said Chow. “Therein lies the value of the proposed covenant.”

Without the covenant, the municipality doesn’t have the tools to restrict the type of development that was of concern during the referral process Chow conveyed.

In the public comments section of the meeting, former mayor Bob Turner noted that covenants aren’t monitored or even digitally accessible, making them weak environmental protection tools.

Coun. Fast was against the DVP, pointing to the Official Community Plan as a guide to be followed and agreed with Turner’s assessment of covenants. “I can’t see the value that’s coming to the community, I don’t see why this proposal should lead me to vote against our policies,” said Fast.

Councillors Hocking, Kaile, Morse and Mayor Gary Ander pointed to the environmental protection benefits of the covenant and the muni’s lack of control without them.

“I’m not happy to see more development along this bay but it is someone’s property and their right to do so and they seem to be doing it in a reasonably good way,” said Hocking.

Councillors Fast and Wynen opposed the DVP.

Tax decisions to come

It looks like there are some tough decisions in the works. A resolution released from a closed Finance Advisory Committee meeting reveals that all of the program requests for the 2020 budget process would require a 15.5 per cent property tax increase.

There will be a committee of the whole meeting (a committee meeting composed of all of the members of council but without the formality and authority of a council meeting) to delve into matters of capital renewal cost and funding and budget constraints.

Councillors voiced interest in having the public see BIM’s budget constraints. The date is yet to be set.

KEEPING IT LOCAL 1/2 price SHOE SALE Shop right here on Bowen Bootts,, flats and clogs from

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bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A25

ENCHANTED FOREST

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bowenislandundercurrent.com

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bowenislandundercurrent.com

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BOWEN ISLAND SPECIALISTS! QUALITY SERVICE GUARANTEED!

ADVERTISING POLICIES

All advertising published in this newspaper is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services offered are accurately described and willingly sold to buyers at the advertised prices. Advertisers are aware of these conditions. Advertising that does not conform to these standards or that is deceptive or misleading, is never knowingly accepted. If any reader encounters non-compliance with these standards we ask that you inform the Publisher of this newspaper and The Advertising Standards Council of B.C. OMISSION AND ERROR: The publishers do not guarantee the insertion of a particular advertisement on a specified date, or at all, although every effort will be made to meet the wishes of the advertisers.

Further, the publishers do not accept liability for any loss of damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of an advertisement beyond the amount paid for the space actually occupied by the portion of the advertisement in which the error occurred. Any corrections of changes will be made in the next available issue. The Bowen Island Undercurrent will be responsible for only one incorrect insertion with liability limited to that portion of the advertisement affected by the error. Request for adjustments or corrections on charges must be made within 30 days of the ad’s expiration.

For best results please check your ad for accuracy the first day it appears. Refunds made only after 7 business days notice!

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bowenislandundercurrent.com

Places of Worship Welcome You

Queen of Capilano Ferry Schedule October 13 to May 15 2021

BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH

DEPART BOWEN ISLAND DEPART HORSESHOE BAY 5:20 am except Sundays 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 except Wednesdays 5:10 pm 6:15 pm 7:25 pm Mon Wed Th Fri 7:26 pm Tue Sun 8:30 pm 9:30 pm 10:30 pm

5:50 am 6:50 am 8:00 am 9:05 am except Wednesdays 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 except Saturdays 9:00 pm 10:00 pm

Thursday, November 26, 2020 • A27

Now offering a youtube channel of reflections and hymn/songs with Reverend Lorraine Ashdown and Lynn Williams. youtubewatch?v=tejV7Y6jo

FOOD BANK DROP-OFF

ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Sunday Mass at 9.30 (limited seating due to Covid 19)

Contact Angela Powell 604-947-2515

CATES HILL CHAPEL

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

Now offering worship services via Zoom.

A link available on website.

Note: Schedules subject to change without notice: Please check BCFERRIES.COM Schedule changes on statutory holidays

Pastor: Phil Adkins

BOWEN HOME SERVICES love the life you live Santa’s Chimney Services

NEW CONSTRUCTION RENOVATIONS RESTORATION ADDITIONS SECONDARY STRUCTURES

• WETT Certified Sweeping/Inspections • Repairs • 2021 Consumer Choice Award Winner

778-340-0324

Window Blinds On Bowen 778-995-1902

UNIQUE OUTDOOR SPACES SUB CONTRACT WORK

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

Landscape Lighting Irrigation

Seascape Bruce Culver

Office: 604-947-9686

Cell: 604-329-3045

A28 • Thursday, November 26, 2020

bowenislandundercurrent.com

To the Generous Donors and the Bowen Island Conservancy who shared our Dream of a park at Cape Roger Curtis and then made it a reality Thank you for Sparking Inspiration and Hope for the Environment now and for Generations to come.

Thank you for Embracing our Community with Generosity and Commitment to Conservation.

Thank you for Entrusting the Bowen Island community with the care of this Extraordinary and Wonderful Gift

From a few of us, on behalf of the rest of us

Aaron Davison • Alison Nixon • Andre Chollat • Angie Bosworth • Ann Ramsay • Anne Dingwall Anne Franc de Ferrière • Barry Adams • Betty Morton • Beverley Lindsey • Bill Brown • Bob Doucet Bonny Brokenshire • Brenda Duce • Brenda McLuhan • Brent O’Malley • Brent Walker • Brett Graham Brian Thomas-Peter • Bruce Carroll • Bruce McTaggart • Bruce Steele • Caitlin Frost • Caitlyn Walker Candace Sorrentino • Carmen Dives • Caro Johnson• Caroline Walker • Catherine Epps • Cathy Robertson Chai Graham • Chanelle Walker • Chantal Underdown • Chris Corrigan • Chris Leigh• Chris Pollard Chuck Venhuizen • Claire Africa • Claudia Schaefer • Claire Weeks • Clive Butler • Clive Jones • Cohl Shelley Colin Johnson and family • Colin Ritchie • Colleen Huskison• Damian Carroll • Dane Gilbert Danuta Zwierciadlowski • Dave Cameron • David McCullum • David Smith • Dawn Brett-Hauschild Deborah Bramm • Deborah Thomson • Dennis Vetter • Devon Walker • DG Blair • Don Shafer Donna Sinclair • Doug Hooper • Dyan Spear • Edward Wachtman • Elaine Jones • Ellen Goldberg Ellen MacIntosh • Emily Erickson-McCullum • Everhard van Lidth de Jeude • Frank Gish Furio Sorrentino • Gail Lotenberg • Gary Mangel • Gary O’Doherty • George Milligan George Sullivan • Gillian Darling • Gordon Reid • Gordon Rose • Graham Ritchie • Greg Bosworth • Haig Farris Harmony Davison • Heather Coulthard • Hilary Butler • Holly Cleater • Ian Stuart • Ian Thomson Ian Watson • Jack Resels • Jackie Bradley • Jackie Minns • James Milligan • Jane Henley • Jane Skipsey Jani Carroll • Jasmine Gish • Jay Graham •Jeb Gutelius • Jeff Kellner • Jeff Matheson • Jen Ritchie Jenny Anstey • Jim Bydak • Jim Taylor • Jo Quarry • Joanna Mereu • Joanne Forbes • Joel Voyer Joel Weise • Jude Neale • Judith McBride • Judy Balko • Judy Taylor •Julie MacLean • Julie Rogers Kailey Spear • Karen Davis • Karen Munro • Kate Coffey • Kate Thomas-Peter • Katherine Gish Katherine Wolters • Kathleen Sullivan • Kathy Clarke • Kelley Voyer • Kelly Konno • Ken Simpson Keona Hammond • Kevin Boggan • Kevin Manning • Kiley Redhead • Kim Rich • Kim Selody • Kit Africa Laurel Bailey • Lauren Spear • Leah Cline • Len Gilday • Linda Carson • Lisa Holleman • Lisa Shatzky Liz Watson • Loraine Ashdown • Lori Canning • Louise Escallier • Louise Macintosh • Lucia Arreaga Lyn van Lidth de Jeude • Mal Hoskins • Marc Gawthrop • Margaret Butler • Martin Clarke Mary Ellen deGrace • Mary Leigh • Mary Pottier • Mary Sullivan • Matt Walker Matthew Redekopp Maya Arreaga • Michelle (Elle) Pentz • Michelle Gibson • Mimi Hall • Monika Arreaga • Morgan Quarry Nancy Cox • Naomi Thomas • Neil Cusworth • Nicola Murray• Ockeleon family •Pam Matthews Pat Greyell • Paul Hoosen • Paulo Arreaga • Penny Martyn • Peter Boronkay • Peter Canning Peter Clarke • Peter Dives • Peter King • Peter McLean • Peter Wing • Phil Kemp • Philip Day Rachel Canning • Rebecca Salmon • Richard Dawson • Richard Helm • Richard Underdown Rob Bailey • Rob Gilbert • Robin Butler • Ron Kato • Rory MacIntosh • Rosemary Knight Ross Allan • Ross Beaty • Ross McDonald • Ryan Hauschild • Sam Spea• Sandra Dawson • Sarah Nicolson Sheila Vetter • Shelley Cohl • Sheree Johnson • Soorya Ray Resels • Stefania Shortt • Steph Boggan Sue Ellen Fast • Sue Ritchie • Susan Alexander • Susan Munro • Susan Nelson • Susan Swift Susanna Braund • Susanne Schloegl • Suzan Gilbert • Suzanne Allan • Tamara Kaminiarz Tamsin Miley • Taya Brokenshire • Ted Spear • Thomas Newman • Tina Nielsen • Toby Davidson • Tom Rafael Toni Leverett • Trisha Beaty • Val Lowdon • Val Geddes • Van Shouwen Flemings family • Warren Franklin Wendy Alexander • Westley Walker • Will Husby • Willow Gilbert • Wilson Dives •