Bowen Island Undercurrent August 5 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Fire ban in effect: no beach fires, no camp fires

WEEKEND ACTIVITY: Trail society is holding a rogaining event Sat.

Thursday, August 5, 2021 • A1

$1.50

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inc.

GST

THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 2021 BEACH SECRETS

VOL. 47 NO. 31

BIUndercurrent

BowUndercurrent www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

Bowen has dozens of beaches, do you know them all?

PAGE 12

Creating water champions ISLANDER TACKLING POLLUTION IN B.C. WATERS

JANE SEYD

North Shore News

JAMES WILSON PHOTO

GOLF BREAK: Jack Welsh, Alexander Lipsey-Ouimett, Peter Goumeniouk and Jesse Durrant at the Bowen Island Golf

Course’s 15th anniversary fundraiser on July 18. The event was a great success says general manager Les Meszaros with finalized fundraising numbers still to come.

Have you got your grab and go bag?

PRIZES FOR ISLANDERS WHO ARE READY TO GO BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

Marie Neys is on a mission. She wants to have islanders create 500 ‘grab and go’ bags by Aug. 10.

With forest fires raging across the province, the potential to have to leave one’s home with hours or even minutes notice, is top of the mind for many.

“Living on an island makes you think differently, living in a tinder dry forest makes you think differently, living on

the coast in an earthquake zone makes you think differently,” writes Neys. She is holding a draw for some neat prizes for islanders who send her a photo of their grab and go bag before Aug. 10 (and a bonus five entries if one sends in a photo of their pet’s grab and go carrier).

CONTINUED ON P. 4

Bowen Island Gymnastics Club is pleased to announce

FUN, FITNESS and FUNdamentals Gymnastics Camps for ages 5 and up

Register Deadline: August 12 (Email only) lisagymstars10@gmail.com

August 16 -20 at BICS gymnasium 10:00 am – 11:00 am 11:15 am – 12:15 pm 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Kindergym (Ages 5-6yrs) Recreational Gymnastics (Ages 7-9 yrs) Advanced Gymnastics (Ages 10–16 yrs)

$80 $90 $110

Coming soon our FALL PROGRAM for 2021!

Peter Ross, an internationally recognized expert in water pollution and Bowen Islander, looks out over the sparkling waters of Burrard Inlet and sees something others do not.

Invisible chemicals tend to be out of sight and out of mind, says Ross. But they leach into watercourses and into the marine food chain, creating “an invisible crisis.”

“There are 500,000 chemicals on the global marketplace,” he said. Many of those will surreptitiously make their way into the food chain.

No single agency is responsible for water, says Ross, making tackling the problem complicated.

Now Ross is hoping to establish a team of “water champions” throughout B.C. by harnessing scientific tools to help Indigenous people and other communities understand how pollution is impacting their water.

The Raincoast Conservation Foundation, a non-profit agency which combines science and environmental advocacy work, announced Thursday that Ross will join the foundation to lead a new project focusing on the Salish Sea and the Fraser River watershed.

“Water is the tie that binds us together,” said Ross.

The problem with many chemical pollutants is their incredible persistence in the food chain, he said. Flame retardants banned decades ago can still be detected in local whales, he said, which are the most polluted marine mammals in the world.

Over 80 per cent of pollution that makes its way into the water originates on the land, he adds.

CONTINUED ON P. 7

A2 • Thursday, August 5, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Fire Danger Rating - Extreme

Job Opportunities:

Events

Communications Coordinator/ Admin Assistant II

September 27, 2021 6:15 pm Regular Council Meeting

Bowen Island Municipality has a vacancy for a Communications Coordinator/Administrative Assistant II position. We’re looking for a dynamic, self-motivated professional to join our team.

All meetings are online via Zoom and

open to the public, unless noted otherwise.

The fire danger rating is set to extreme. This means the fire risk to Bowen Island is very serious. New fires will start easily, spread rapidly, and challenge fire suppression efforts.

Absolutely no fires permitted anywhere. Propane BBQs are permitted on private property only.

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/alerts

This is a temporary full-time position at 35 hours per week, backfilling a temporary leave from early December 2021 to late November 2023.

Reporting to the Interim Corporate Officer, you will: •

• • • •

Coordinate and implement communication plans, using a variety of communication strategies and tools in accordance with the Communicating with the Public Policy 07-02.

Coordinate with BIM Staff, the Mayor, and Council for advertising municipal-related business and public education matters.

Coordinate ongoing website maintenance and development with the website developer.

Prepare information for the BIM website, social media accounts and other online platforms, where applicable.

Provide support in preparing Council agendas, Council meeting follow-up, public notices, managing corporate records, including bylaws, policies and preparing general correspondence.

Dogs on beaches Dogs are not permitted on Bowen Bay Beach, Tunstall Bay Beach and Sandy Beach during the months of July and August.

To read the full job posting, job descriptions, and instructions on how to apply, please go to our website:

Help stop COVID-19:

bowenislandmunicipality.ca/jobs

Community Recreation Program Supervisor Get vaccinated - everyone over 12 is eligible

We have a vacancy for a Community Recreation Program Supervisor. Reporting to the Manager of Recreation and Community Services you will: • • •

Stay home if you’re sick

work as part of the recreation team to offer a diverse suite of recreational and cultural activities for the Bowen Island Community. develop and oversee the child & family portfolio. supervise and support other recreation team members.

This position is available immediately and will remain open until filled.

To read the full job posting, job descriptions, and instructions on how to apply, please go to our website:

Consider wearing a mask in indoor public spaces

bowenislandmunicipality.ca/jobs Contact Bowen Island Municipality

PAID ADVERTISEMENT August 5, 2021

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

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

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

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca

Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday to Friday Closed statutory holidays

Beach closures Snug Cove Beach and Mother’s Beach are not suitable for swimming. An advisory is in effect for unsafe levels of bacteria in the water. Signs have been posted at the beach.

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/alerts

Find us on Facebook Bowen Island Municipality

Subscribe to our mailing list bowenislandmunicipality.ca/subscribe

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New permitting requirements for organized sports, activities on municipal lands adopted BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

A new suite of permitting requirements and prohibitions have come into effect in municipally managed places on Bowen.

Bowen Island Municipality council adopted a new public places bylaw at a special council meeting July 29.

The new regulations affect areas owned or managed by the municipality including “wharves, parks, trails, beaches greenways, playgrounds and streets.” (This does not include Metro Vancouver-owned Crippen Park, the Crown lands or private property). Listed among the prohibitions or activities requiring permit: allow one’s animals to

damage vegetation; abandon possessions; create or modify pathways or trails; smoke or use a vape; place or keep possessions in public places so as to be unsightly; post ads, bills or posters other than in designated areas or community notice boards; set off fireworks or pyrotechnics; camp; and hold organized sports or organized activities (preplanned, limits public access to a public place and involves a group of 20 people or more). The bylaw also limits temporary shelters for people experiencing homelessness.

The bylaw went three readings with few public comments but prompted a slew of letters ahead of its planned adoption at the regular council meeting July 26. Concerns voiced from the public included: the bylaw targeting and further

marginalizing people experiencing homelessness, municipal overreach and concerns about permitting costs being prohibitive (councillors noted that the BIM CAO has discretionary power to waive permit fees).

The intent of the new regulations isn’t to “dissuade enjoyment and recreational and casual use,” nor to “create barriers” to use of public places said interim bylaw manager Bonny Brokenshire at the July 26 meeting.

Staff and council made a few adjustments to the bylaw to clarify permits would not be required for gatherings of “non-exclusive and casual purposes.”

The majority of councillors chalked the public outcry up to misconceptions of what the bylaw

imposed and was trying to achieve.

“It’s a protection of municipal spaces for the general public,” said Mayor Gary Ander, “And as we get larger, we’re going to find that not everybody is easy to get along with.”

Coun. Rob Wynen is the one councillor who has been consistently opposed to the bylaw – “It is a big thing to tell people that this is not allowed on your public property,” he said. “I think we have a really broad community consensus that a lot of these areas are not where we should be moving on Bowen.”

Councillors agreed the bylaw should have a review in short order to see that it’s achieving what it’s meant to achieve.

Editor’s note: Coverage of the rest of the July 26 council meeting will be in next week’s paper.

Try out a new sport this weekend: the trail society is holding a rogaining event

If you’re looking for an excuse to get out on the trails this weekend, Bowen Island Trail Society may have the event for you. BITS is holding its first rogaining event Saturday morning.

Rogaining, a long distance, cross country orienteering sport, sees teams of two to five people route planning and navigating between checkpoints, choosing which checkpoints to visit within the time limit (in this case three hours) to

maximize their score, according to Wikipedia.

BITS is hosting a runner and family friendly “Rogaine” event on Aug 7.

This event can be done in groups of three or four running or families / friends can walk and find as many checkpoints as possible in the three-hour timed event, which takes place in Fairy Fen/ Quarry Park / Cape Rodger Curtis and the Disc Golf Course.

Admission is by donation and runners/ walkers will need to sign a waiver.

Meet at Thompson Road for 8:30 a.m. start and finish by 11:30 a.m.

This event will be followed by a talk by Mara Letaine, World Rogaine Championships medalist, at the Golf Course at noon.

New and renewed membership for the trail society with our brand new hat swag will also be available at the golf course, noon to 1:30 p.m.

It is with immense sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Susan Lynn Miller on July 7, 2021, at the age of 67 years.

Susan loved laughing, being creative, but most of all, Susan loved her family.

Born in Port Alberni, BC to parents Louran (aka Bud) and Doris Olstad. Susan met Kenneth Miller in 1981 and married in the spring of 1983.

Susan is survived by her two daughters Kelly Miller (eldest), Cindy Miller and grandson Kenneth Lee-Baumgart, her sister Vicky Williamson (David Williamson) nephew Christopher Williamson, her brother Randy Olstad (Emma Olstad) and nephews Ethan and Nicky Olstad.

Predeceased by her husband Kenneth Miller and mother Doris Olstad.

Susan passed peacefully and rests now with the love of her life. We imagine her and Ken are sitting on a beach somewhere enjoying each others company while laughing at each others humour. They always knew how to make each other smile. They built an amazing life on Bowen Island where they connected with everyone they met while raising their two daughters.

Susan had the ability to let everyone feel welcome and comfortable.

Our universe has a small crack in it where she once was. She kept a spark in our hearts. We will carry her energy by remembering her strength and smile.

Special thanks to the staff at Sechelt Hospital and Lions Gate Hospital for their attentive care.

Memorial donations may be made in lieu of flowers to Craig’s Cause Pancreatic Cancer Society.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LISA BROUGHAM

Katie Brougham doing a July rogaine in the Cove on Bowen.

Happy trails!

Lisa Brougham

Thursday, August 5, 2021 • A3

One Bowen / Lions Bay case

For the 5,000-odd people of Bowen-Lions Bay area, BCCDC data shows that as of Aug. 2: • There was one new case of COVID-19 between July 27 and Aug. 2; • 74% of people 12+ have had two vaccine doses; • 77% of people 18+ have had two vaccine doses; • 66% of people 18 to 49 have had two vaccine doses • 84 % of people 50 and over have at least one vaccine dose as of July 19.

See a list of Vancouver Coastal Health vaccineclinics at vch.ca/covid-19/ covid-19-vaccine.

The West Vancouver clinic has closed as the demand for immunizations there has been falling significantly in recent weeks, according to Vancouver Coastal Health.

Those who are seven weeks past the date of their first vaccination date can also drop in to clinics for a second dose or schedule an appointment in North Vancouver or any other clinic in the Lower Mainland.

Peter Erskine Ross passed away on July 24, 2021 at his residence in West Vancouver after a short illness. He was a longtime resident of Bowen Island having built a home in Tunstall Bay in the early 1980s. He was very active in the development of the Tunstall Bay Club Association, serving as its Treasurer for many years. He enjoyed playing tennis and the company of the many close friends he and his wife Marja-Liisa came to know over the years on Bowen. He also loved walking their dogs on the beach at Tunstall Bay. Peter was born in La Tuque, Quebec in 1927. After graduating in Business from Sir George Williams University, he worked as an executive at Bell Canada in Montreal and AT&T in Manhattan. He married Jacqueline Patricia Ross in 1952 in Montreal and they had three children. They later divorced and in the early 1970s he moved to Vancouver to start his own firm, Ross Systems, Ltd. He married Marja-Liisa shortly thereafter. He was active in Ross Systems into his late eighties and very much enjoyed advising his many clients. He and Marja-Liisa moved to West Vancouver in 2017 but always held Bowen Island and their many friends close to their hearts. He is survived by Marja-Liisa, his brother Donnie, his three children David, Stephen and Heather and their spouses, ten grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He was intelligent, steadfast, a proud father and a true gentleman. He will be deeply missed by those who loved him. He will be interred at the family plot in Riviere Du Loup, Quebec.

A4 • Thursday, August 5, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

VIEWPOINTS EDITORIAL

Home again, home again?

I’m pulling together this paper while surrounded by piles of belongings collected from the home of one of my sets of parents.

When I was 14, Mom, my brothers and I moved to my stepfather’s property 40-ish minutes outside of Whitehorse, Yukon. I don’t remember a ton about that time but I remember yelling, a lot. (I was 14!)

Instead of moving into a house together, we moved into a series of cabins – two boys in one, my parents in another, my then-youngest brother and I in the main cabin. (Our youngest brother joined us a few years later.)

Fifteen years later, with my parents leaving the property, I’m picking up the pieces I want to keep of a place I never wanted to move to and resolutely avoided adopting. (I was an adult before I agreed to chop wood – the teenager that I was figuring that the more skills I gathered, the more work I would have to do.)

For me, the compound, as we came to know it, holds the scars of many arguments and the ropes tossed across a chasm by people trying to figure out a new form of family.

There’s the gouge in the driveway from the

first time I ever drove a car and my stepfather had to yank the emergency brake. There’s the shed where my brother crashed his second vehicle (the car rolled down the hill) before he could even drive. There’s the tree that a family friend ran the skidoo into in its first day with the family. And the outhouses that – in a door, no door compromise – have swinging half-doors like a saloon so you can see feet and hair (if one’s tall enough).

Compromise is a valuable skill (one I have yet to hone) and in stepfamilies as in small towns is critical to survival and mental health. So is letting things go.

Leaving this property I never wanted to come to is really hard. It seems that that resentment settled into love at some point.

Yet, it is an opportunity to decide what to keep and what to leave behind.

On that note, I leave Whitehorse for Bowen Island Friday. This is my last paper from the North and thank you all for bearing with me in my absence!

I’ll see you soon.

Bronwyn Beairsto, editor

Commitment to our natural environment should be in the municipality’s planner job description DEAR EDITOR: I was concerned enough about the ad for an Island Community Planner in the July 15, 2021 Undercurrent, to search out the job description. My concern is that neither the ad nor the job description mentions that we are an island in the Islands Trust, guided by the provincial mandate of the Islands Trust Act “to preserve and protect.”

The first bullet says the planner will: “Identify and research issues related to the management of land use and the orderly development of Bowen Island.”

Whatever happened to the 2021 Island Plan and its priorities which include the following in its Mission Statement: “Preserves and enhances the unique mix of natural ecosystems and green spaces that Bowen Island possesses.”

And Priority B1 in the Plan: “Adopt a policy to embed Conservation Development Principles in municipal planning” “Begin work on an Ecosystem Protection Policy.”

Steps to be taken include: a) Present and

draft policy, engage the public and make recommendations to Council. b) Adopt policy.

I researched further and discovered that the Advisory Planning Commission, under Council’s instructions, drafted a Conservation Development (“CD”) Policy, dated October 2019. Almost two years have passed and the public has heard nothing about this promised policy. After a few emails, I discovered this CD policy is expected to come to Council in early 2022. I will watch for it, and will look for Ecosystem Protection Policy as well.

Every survey ever done on our island has emphasized the importance of the natural environment as a key factor in why people live here. I would hope that our new “island community planner” would be given notice of this and that the selection committee would be looking for someone who has the skills and/or experience to incorporate the importance of our natural environment in any tasks related to “orderly development.”

Nerys Poole

There’s a slew of prizes for islanders with grab and go bags CONTINUED FROM P. 1

Prizes include $100 restaurant gift cards, $50 clothing store gift cards, books, vehicle first aid and safety kits, an artists’ gift basket, a painting class and a floral bouquet. Send entries to Marie@ marieneys.com.

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

Neys thanks Bowen Island Municipality and Neighbourhood Emergency Response Program coordinator Edward Wachtman for inspiring her mission.

Find the full grab and go list at bowenisland.civicweb.net/document/247531.

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

New poetry book celebrates Joy Kogawa House

DEAR EDITOR: Last June I was writer in residence at Joy Kogawa House. I was invited by the executive director to do a residency.

I thought long and hard about what I wanted to achieve when I was there. It became obvious to me I needed to explore and document Joy Kogawa House itself, the very symbol of oppression and displacement during the Second World War. In 1937, Joy Kogawa and her family moved to this dwelling until internment in 1942. It is here where Ms Kogawa had her fondest memories. She once commented that she “would never live in such a beautiful house again.”

I wanted the house and its many household items to be immortalized in haiku that would go with pictures that Paul Hooson would take. I wrote 60 haiku while I was there accompanied by photographs. Feeling rather pleased I sent my haiku to a haiku master who told me they weren’t haiku! The 5/7/5 syllable pattern was wrong. I had to start again and change each poem to a real haiku. After much research and advice and

10 complete edits I sent them off to the great innovative and prize winning haiku writer, Jacqueline Pearce.

It was through her extensive knowledge of this form that I found out I had now written haiku, so different from the original version three months before.

After Joy Kogawa read the manuscript she responded with these words: “I just read Inside the Pearl and what a delicate beautiful tone comes by. A light bell sound.

Wonder. Grace...”

All the author’s monies will be going to Joy Kogawa House Society Residency programme. They have also purchased books which will now represent the house and its legacy.

During this process I fell in love with the house and feel blessed to have created a book that will carry on the story and maybe move us all to do even better.

Inside the Pearl is published by Guernica Editions and can be ordered through them, the Hearth Gallery, or me!

Jude Neale

The freedom of choice is ours but there can be consequences DEAR EDITOR: There are some rebels who have decided not to get vaccinated. Their reasons may be quite varied and they may not be of the tin foil hat wearing anti-vaccine persuasion.

They may simply be folks who are not comfortable (on a gut level) with this particular vaccine, or people with sensitive bodies and nervous systems who are concerned about the vaccine’s effects on them, or they may be persons who trust their immune system and the accumulated protection of their virome.

However, the consequence in not following the medical/pharmaceutical/governmental model could be exclusion from various groups or even from employment opportunities, as though even without any symptoms, they are somehow a walking contagion. Even the World Health Organization is not enthusiastic about supporting the notion of asymptomatic transmission. This

divisiveness creates an Us/Them scenario and is not helpful.

Social distancing, mask wearing, staying home if you are sick, and coughing or sneezing into your elbow; these basics, are still the best ways to avoid contamination.

Fortunately we have learned a lot from these simple safety protocols and hopefully we are beyond the point where some folks think it is okay to go to their scheduled public tasks with cold or flu symptoms.

My thinking is to trust the science, (not necessarily the media which are addicted to reporting the next thing that we need to fear), trust your gut, and support your microbiome for stronger immunity and a better mood.

And most importantly respect people’s choices in what they feel are best for themselves by not judging or excluding them.

Richard Best

David and Shirley Wrinch take pleasure in announcing the marriage of their granddaughter Sophia Wrinch, daughter of Shael and Lisa Wrinch, to Ben Blair, son of Alan and Allison Blair.

Both attended BICS, WV and UBC. T h e w ed dding was on July 21 and held on Galiano Island.

A great day for both families.

A lot of happy tears.

FIRE DANGER Bowen Island Fire Rescue

Thursday, August 5, 2021 • A5

In support of responsible motorized use of Mount Gardner DEAR EDITOR: I am writing to voice support for true multi-use recreation, the continued responsible off-road vehicle access and stewardship of Mount Gardner by the Bowen Trail Riders Association in partnership with the Province, members of the former Bowen Trails Coalition and other stakeholders.

For some of us, motorized use on Bowen’s Crown lands has been a part of our island identity for decades. With the 2018 formation of the coalition and signing of the section 56 partnership agreements, the Mount Gardner trails have never been in better condition. Bridges, markers and signage have been installed, and trail tread armouring, drainage features, pruning and clearing of blow down along established routes has made the trails more accessible and safer for all to enjoy. Stakeholders have worked together on signage, work parties, trail names, trail etiquette and more.

Many of the trails are based on old logging or mining roads, and frequenters include ATV, dirt bike, equestrian, hiking and mountain bike users. A variety of multi-use single track options and hiking-only routes exist for those who prefer this type of experience.

I know of very little actual conflict on the trails and no accidents relating to motorized use. I see opposition as coming from a small group who wish to see singular trail designa-

tion because they do not agree with certain types of recreational activity.

Most emergency calls on Mount Gardner I have heard of have been related to lost hikers visiting from off-island or hiking related injuries. In fact, most motorized use seems to occur at different times of day and on less popular trails so encounters are few and far between.

Mount Gardner is the largest block of Crown land on Bowen and offers the biggest value to recreational users. Maintaining these trails is a large undertaking and was on course for great success through the Bowen trails coalition during the first three years of the section 56 partnership agreement. I believe that including all relevant stakeholder groups including motorized (BTRA) moving forward is necessary for the upkeep and will provide the best experience for all trail users as well as the most enjoyable, sustainable and well-rounded future for the Mount Gardner recreation polygon.

Through the stewardship of the Mount Gardner trails, Bowen Trail Riders Association has given a lot to the trail community and it is our hope that we are able to continue improving the experience for all trail users moving forward.

Kevan Bernards President, Bowen Trail Riders Association

The Bowen Legion is thanking Dennis and everyone at Bowen Concrete for their generous donation of supplies, equipment, and person power to restore our beloved Cenotaph. It is these acts of kindness and community spirit that makes Bowen Island so spectacular.

NO CAMPFIRES NO BEACH FIRES

A6 • Thursday, August 5, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Get to know yourneighbour

NEXT UP: ANNE FRANC DE FERRIÈRE-CHOLLAT & ANDRÉ CHOLLAT

When did you arrive on Bowen Island?

April 15, 1988 How did you come to be on Bowen?

Anne: We had a friend, Markus Duenner, who was already on the island. He’s the one who was the go between to help us make our wedding band and engagement ring. We visited him Boxing Day 1987 and we wanted to have acreage and there was acreage for sale.

André: We were just married in ’87. Anne had an apartment North Van and I had a house in East Vancouver. Given the type of work I was doing (a certified horticulturist since 1959), I was looking for some type of space where I could keep plants and animals and whatever. I was thinking of the valley and Anne said ‘No way – we have to stay near the water. I need the water.’

Where on Bowen do you live?

We are on the famous Westside Road.

We built the first house on the Sunset Estates phase one. There was no Westside Road when we came.

Where’s your favourite place on Bowen Island?

Anne: All of it!

André: The top of Mount Gardner Anne: Oh the view there is magnificent.

What’s your favourite Bowen story?

There are so many amazing people we met through the years, never realizing that some were millionaires, some were academicians and some people are relatively anonymous. We met some incredible people.

One famous story that needs to be told: Georg Helenius Sr. was a contractor. One day, he was going down Trunk Road with his backhoe and he realized that his brakes had broken and the backhoe was taking speed going down towards the wharf. So he dropped the bucket at the back and he plowed the middle of Trunk Road.

There would be thousands of stories like that we could tell – some of the stories with Eddie Weismiller, nobody would believe the types of things that he has done that guy.

What’s been keeping you going during COVID-19?

Anne: We have five acres!

André: We never realized that there was COVID around.

Fill the ferry lineup gap or don’t fill the gap?

If we’re early then we fill the gap; if we’re late, we stay behind.

Rosemary addresses the crowd of friends gathered to celebrate her recent geophysics award.

Honouring Rosemary Knight

PHOTOS & WORDS BY LEN GILDAY The moment Susan Alexander and Ross From “Sonnet for Rosemary” by Susan McDonald heard that their friend Rosemary Alexander after Shakespeare’s Sonnet #116 Knight had been honoured with the Society Bowen Islanders don’t know her stellar of Exploration Geophysists’ highest award, worth the Maurice Ewing Medal, they decided the because she does not blow her golden horn. professional recognition demanded a Bowen Thank God, that Stanford and the sciencelebration. Rosemary is the first woman to tific world win the Ewing Medal in the award’s 43-year shower honours on this rose – but does she history, the second Canadian, and the first have a thorn? scientist in the specialized field of hydroPerhaps to prick those who can’t see that geophysics (a term Rosemary coined while Bowen CAN, finishing her PhD in 1985). Ross and Susan this hydrophysicist, teacher, citizen, and invited Rosemary’s double vaccinated friend. friends to gather outdoors. Susan and her sister Wendy made waffles. Susan presented Rosemary’s celebration was, for many, “Sonnet for Rosemary,” composed to salute the first group hug in a long, long time. It her remarkable friend’s many achievements. felt great.

Tamsin Miley, Peter Williamson & Martin Clarke.

Susan Alexander reads Sonnet for Rosemary.

Present Moments EFL is offering : • Equine Facilitated Life Coaching and Wellness • Teen Program with Horses • Gramma’s Afterschool Pony Club • Kids Equine Assisted Wellness Programs • Life Coaching (without horses) For more information please contact Ellen Email: presentmomentsefl@gmail.com Cell: 604-764-9275 Website: www.presentmomentsefl.com

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Invisible threats in the water

SPONSORED CONTENT

PATRICK WEILER

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT / DÉPUTÉ WEST VANCOUVER–SUNSHINE COAST–SEA TO SKY COUNTRY

CONTINUED FROM P. 1

So every time someone uses a herbicide on their lawn “because they don’t like dandelions ... guess where that is going.”

Salmon heading up the Fraser River are also “basically running a gauntlet,” said Ross, “past wastewater treatment plants, past farms, past pulp mills, past refineries and storm drains.”

Pollution is also an issue in drinking water, he said. When surface water containing organic matter is chlorinated it can create cancer-causing chemicals, he said.

Even in communities with relatively clean drinking water, lead from solder in old pipes installed prior to 1989 can still be found in the first water run through pipes in the morning, he said. Lead pollution can impact the brain, particularly in children.

“So there are a lot of invisible threats out there in our water.”

Ross has been at the forefront of researching pollution for 35 years. He was previously a research scientist at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

As vice-president of research at Ocean Wise with the Vancouver Aquarium until 2020, Ross also led projects to measure pollution levels in samples from the ocean floor off local sites around Burrard Inlet and Howe Sound. His team also conducted research on the persistence of plastic micro-particles from polyester fibres in the marine environment, which have been detected even in

RAINFOREST CONSERVATION FOUNDATION PHOTO

International pollution expert Dr. Peter Ross.

remote Arctic waters.

Ross said the difference with his latest project will be working closely with local Indigenous groups and others most impacted by the impacts of pollution. “We want to bring science to the community,” he said – and provide data that will allow communities to prioritize “which issues are important.”

Gabriel George of the TsleilWaututh Nation said it’s been the bounty of the land and sea that has allowed his people to flourish.

“That’s what we have to take care of,” he said. “All of us have a responsibility.”

George pointed to the closure of shellfish harvesting in Burrard Inlet as one of the lasting impacts of pollution on his people.

“We used to say when the tide went out, the table was set,” he said. “Now it’s full of heavy metals and contaminants.”

The environment is “what we have to take care of,” said George. “All of us have a responsibility.”

Ross said he has a love/hate relationship with pollution.

“Without the bad news, you can’t create the good news,” he said.

Patient of the Week JOY This beautiful girl is Joy! Joy came to the vet recently for a procedure to fix a laceration around her eye.

Joy was a delight to have in the clinic and insisted that her recovery time be spent cuddling with BVS staff.

We are glad that she is on the mend!

Thursday, August 5, 2021 • A7

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

To schedule appointments, please call

604.947.9247

or email reception@bowenvet.com

$10/Day Childcare in British Columbia Families deserve to have access to high quality early learning and childcare to give their children the best possible start to life. It has been proven to improve graduation rates, promote lifelong well-being, boost lifetime earnings, and increase social equity. However, expensive childcare is weighing heavily on young families across the country, and especially in communities like West Vancouver and Bowen Island that have a high cost of living.

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing social, economic, and gender inequalities, highlighting the direct link that access to affordable childcare has in increasing women’s participation in the workforce and reducing wealth, gender, and racial inequality. The research and data are clear: access to affordable childcare is not only good for families and crucial for working women, but it is an investment that will grow Canada’s economy and lead to long-term prosperity. Experts from a range of backgrounds are convinced that there is no measure that would do more to boost Canada’s GDP than a universal, affordable, and accessible childcare system.

That is why in Budget 2021, the federal government announced a plan to deliver, in partnership with the provinces and territories, a Canada-wide, community-based system of quality early learning and childcare.

Last month, our government signed the historic first implementation agreements with the Province of British Columbia to make $10/day childcare a reality for families across the province. Since then, we have also signed agreements with Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia.

As part of this agreement, we will invest $3.2 billion to help improve regulated early learning and childcare for children under six in

British Columbia, cutting childcare costs by 50% by the end of next year with a goal of achieving $10/day childcare in five years.

This means a family paying an average of $60/day per child for early learning childcare here in West Vancouver and Bowen Island will see their costs halved to $30/day by the end of next year, saving families with two children around $15,000 a year.

Hundreds of families have expressed the urgency of accessing affordable childcare. With available spaces being scarce to non-existent, and waitlists that are unacceptably long, the creation of new childcare spots is just as important as reducing the costs of existing spaces.

To combat this shortage, this investment will create 30,000 new regulated early learning and childcare spaces in BC within five years, and 40,000 spaces within seven years through community investments that are long-term and run by public and non-profit institutions. The agreement also funds critical services to support early childhood educators through the development of a wage grid to ensure they are fairly compensated for their essential work.

Several childcare roundtables throughout our region have informed the substance of this agreement in a way that fully meets the distinct needs of our communities and the most effective means to make life more affordable for families in our region.

The time for affordable childcare is now. The need has never been greater, and the impact on families and our economy has never been clearer. Working together, we will deliver this truly transformative investment that will make life more affordable for families, increase women’s participation in the workforce, and offer every child in Canada the best start in life.

A8 • Thursday, August 5, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Finding the Baldwin’s next stage JUDI GEDYE

Contributor

We need to find a new home for a beautiful piano and time is of the essence. Cates Hill Chapel has decided to get a new piano and The Hearth, which owns the Baldwin, needs to find another home for it.

The purchase of the nine-foot Baldwin concert grand 25 years ago is a testament to the power of a small community. In 1996, the Bowen Island Arts Council raised $21,000 to acquire the Baldwin. Built in the late 1800’s, this magnificent instrument had what was probably its second rebuild

by Sigurd Sabathil, a harpsichord builder and craftsman, and one of the founding members and a past-president of the Arts Council. Names of all the donors were inscribed in gold letters on the inside of the piano lid and a gala concert, featuring local musical talent, celebrated the community’s achievement.

BIAC, formed in 1987 by a group of residents who sponsored performances of classical concerts in their homes, decided early on to advocate for a multi-use performing arts space. The purchase of a piano to eventually live in such a space created a positive

first step towards that dream but until such a venue was built, the piano needed a home.

Moving the delicate, but heavy, instrument to various locations was a challenge until the community school provided a storage locker, the school gymnasium being the venue for many concerts. But the piano ended up on its side in the girls’ washroom, until 1999 when Cates Hill Chapel was completed. The chapel offered an acoustically attractive home for the Baldwin and an agreement ensured the community would continue to have access to the instrument.

The Baldwin has featured prominently in the cultural life of the island, inspiring a heightened appreciation of music and enriching the artistic fabric of our home.

The Baldwin has been played by famous pianists, who illustrate its range and magnificent voice, but also by generations of Bowen’s children who have experienced its virtuosity as they take lessons, or participate in competitions and festivals. It’s played a role in innumerable community events, from inaugurations, Sunday services, talent shows and hundreds of concerts and performances over the past 25 years, delighting thousands of artists, musicians and the public.

For rent three bedroom, fully furnished home on Bowen Island 5 minute walk from B.C. ferry across from Deep Bay

The Hearth has maintained the piano over the years, spending more than half of its purchase price on tuning and minor repairs, but to achieve the highest concert standards for a large venue, the Baldwin needs another restoration. A recent assessment indicated that it would cost close to $50,000 to restore it to a high performance level. The Hearth has decided it is time to retire the instrument from concert presentations. The Baldwin may no longer be the best fit for the needs of the community but it is hoped that it will not yet go silent, rather take on a new life where it will continue to create its beautiful music. It would be an exceptional instrument for personal in-home use.

Thus, we are looking for a new home for the Baldwin. Our first choice is to give it to someone who will enjoy it as a fine instrument, and our only request is that the new owner help pay for moving expenses.

The Hearth is working with the “Musicians of Bowen” (the MOB) and other interested consultants, and all of us are committed to ensure we have a high performance piano suitable for the needs of the new community centre. We want Bowen Island to offer both a suitable performance space with equipment to fit the needs of major artists, many

H E AR I N G AI D

Email ghartshorne@crowncontracting.ca

Paradise Grill now hiring part time work.

Please call 604-908-9112

FREE Hearing Test • FREE Hearing Aid Clean + Check

Call for more info:

604.281.3691

Places of Worship Welcome You

June 25 to September 6 2021

DE EPART HORSESHOE BAY

5:20 am except Su undays 6:20 am 7:20 am 8:35 am 9:35 am 10:40 am 12:05 pm 1:15 pm 2:40 pm 4:00 pm except Wednesdays 5:10 pm 6:15 pm 7:20 pm except Saturdays 8:50 pm 9:50 pm 10:50 pm

5:50 am 6:50 am 8:00 am 9:05 am except Wednesdays 10:10 am 11:15 am 12:40 pm 1:55 pm 3:20 pm 4:40 pm 5:45 pm 6:50 pm 7:50 pm except Saturdays 9:20 pm 10:20 pm

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

PARADISE GRILL

nexgenhearing.com

Queen of Capilano Ferry Schedule EN ISLAND DEPART BOWE

of whom perform in Vancouver. While many contracts will not allow performances in close proximity to a main event, we believe our ferry logistics will provide opportunities for Bowen Island residents to see world class performers on Bowen. A smaller seven-foot concert grand piano is a basic requirement, and one which would encourage such artists to perform in our space. That’s our goal and we look forward to sharing more information about upcoming fundraising events for a new piano.

If you are interested in adopting an exceptional instrument and want more details, please contact Jami Scheffer at your earliest opportunity at hello@thehearthartsonbowen.ca.

work in paradise?

AT THE CARING CIRCLE, SNUG COV VE

No pets, no sublet, no smokers Price: $2800 per month plus utilities

PHOTO COURTESY OF JUDI GEDYE

The Hearth’s century-old Baldwin is now looking for a new home.

Would you like to

CLEAN+ CHECK AUGUST 16 | 9am – 4pm m

Available October 1, 2021.

Through April 30, 2022

Thursday, August 5, 2021 • A9

BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH E BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH Mackinnon PK l channel of R Rev Sh Shelagh l Ma M Now offering youtube reflections and hymn/songs withm Reverend Lorraine Ashdown and Lynn Williams. youtubewatch?v=tejV7Y6jo

v l M

FOOD

FOOD BANK DROP-OFF

ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Sunday Mass at 9.30

Contact Angela Powell 604-947-2515

CATES HILL CHAPEL

A

6304

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

00 am W Now offering worship services via Zoom.

m

S

A link available on website.

Pastor: Phil Adkins

SHIRAT HAYAM (Song of the Sea) BOWEN’S JEWISH COMMUNITY Shabbat Gatherings ~ Holidays Contact aryana.rayne@gmail.com

A10 • Thursday, August 5, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Your Community

MARKETPLACE bowenislandundercurrent.com

Call or email to place your ad, Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm

604-444-3000 • 604-653-7851 classifieds@van.net

PRACTICAL NURSING

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ANSWERS

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Shiatsu Massage therapy reestores harmony in your bodyy for optimal health. Based in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

VICKY FREDERIKSEN

Certified Shiatsu Practitioner Book online: exxpe perienceshiatsu.com or call or text 778-881-9012 or email v.gathe@gmail.com

FLU SHOTS FOR OUR PATIENTS

To advertise please call 604-947-2442 or email ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com

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CALENDAR AUG. 4 - 30

Spell of the Coast exhibition Hearth Gallery New works

by Eleanor Rosenberg

AUG. 12 - 22

ITUSMO pop-up shop Miki Tanaka Jewellery in Artisan Square; 10 am-4 pm Japanese lifestyle shop with an “exquisite selection of

handmade products from Japan which will elevate your daily routine and bring joy to your everyday”

AUGUST 6-8

Bowen Island Men’s Fastpitch Tournament Snug Cove Field

SATURDAY AUGUST 7

Friends of B.I. Library book sale Library front lawn; 10 am-noon Fiction and gardening books

Landscape Lighting Irrigation

BAA Farmers’ Market BICS; 10 am - noon. Made, grown, baked on Bowen.

Bring a mask and cash and please follow the signs Spell of the Coast Artist Party Hearth Gallery 6-8 pm hearthartsonbowen.ca Rogaining with Bowen Island Trail Society 8:30 - 11:30 am; For runners or walkers in teams of three or four. Admission

I&I TOWING HAULING LTD

by donation. Meet at Thompson Rd.

AUGUST 7 & 8

Write on Bowen: Festival of wirters Van Berckels’ garden on Cates Hill More information: www. writeonbowen.com

SUNDAY AUGUST 8

Outdoor Meditation Circle Meet at undercover entrance to Crippen; 11 am “There is a guided part ( in

Bruce Culver

Cell: 604-329-3045

the gentle tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh) and a silent part.

Dress accordingly because we meet regardless of the weather.” Free. More info: lisa.shatzky@gmail.com Yoga on the Pier 9 am - 10 am

SATURDAY AUGUST 14

BAA Farmers’ Market BICS; 10 am - noon

Word-Scramble Scavenger Hunt Come to the library to collect the first clue!

Noon - 3 pm

SUNDAY AUGUST 15

Pop-up classes - $15 per class; space limited; weather permitting; book: nectaryoga.ca/ yogaonthepier

Yoga on the Pier 9 am - 10 am Pop-up classes - $15 per class; space limited; weather permitting; book: nectaryoga.ca/

Vehicles • Construction Equipment Sea-Can Containers • Tiny Homes

Now serving Bowen Island

Bowen Island • Greater Vancouver Vancouver Island • Sunshine Coast

Free estimates nelcan.ca 604.428.1119

Seascape Office: 604-947-9686

Thursday, August 5, 2021 • A11

Michael Bingham • 604 947 1717 ianditowhaul@gmail.com

Certified electricians Service calls, renovations, new construction

Window Blinds On Bowen

Licensed Electrical Contractor

778-995-1902 PARK ROYAL CONSTRUCTION Home Renovations & General Contracting Water ingress • Dry rot • Mould removal Decks • Docks • Ramps

604-925-8711

778.266.6465 www.bowenislandelectrical.com

LIONS GATE ROOFING ROOFING & REPAIRS

604-987-7663 Trade ticket certified #00012-RO-96

BOWEN ISLAND SPECIALISTS! QUALITY SERVICE GUARANTEED! Keep Calm and Call Econo

604.980.3333

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

live the life you love To reserve a spot on this page, contact us at 604-947-2442 or ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com

A12 • Thursday, August 5, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

BOWEN NATURE CLUB

The lesser known beaches of Bowen YOUR FAVOURITE BEACH MAY BE ONE YOU NEVER KNEW EXISTED!

JEN RITCHIE

Bowen Nature Club

Summer always calls for beachtime fun. I’m sure many islanders have been enjoying time at the seashore, particularly during the recent infamous “heat dome.”

Well, temperatures are still warm and the sun is shining, so there’s still lots of time to get out there and enjoy the seaside.

Bowen has a plethora of beaches but I’ll bet you didn’t realize that we have nearly 50 public beaches and coastal access points!

Most people know about wellknown community beaches like Tunstall, Bowen Bay, and the Cape Roger Curtis beach. These popular spots are where you’ll find the crowds, as they are well marked and well publicized on tourism info, well maintained, and have amenities like parking, toilets, and garbage cans.

Sandy Beach is perhaps one exception. If you like the amenities but not the crowds, Sandy is the

place to be. Based on my highly scientific study of “asking people I randomly run into,” most people (including locals!) have no idea Sandy even exists.

Sandy Beach definitely has many perks. It is within walking distance of ice cream… er… the Cove. There actually is actually sand there (although not as good as at Alder Cove – see below).

Amenities include parking, trash cans, and a toilet. It’s even accessible via wheelchair or stroller.

Sandy’s calm shallow waters are ideal for kids and pets (note: no dogs in July/Aug). When the tide is out, you can actually stand, calfdeep, in the middle of the bay!

There are plenty of points of interest, between the Lagoon causeway, birds and seals, and a cool rock pier that is submerged in high tides. The view of the North Shore Mountains never disappoints.

Neighbuorhood beaches are generally not as well known as the community beaches. Some, like Baker Beach, are nearly inacces-

JEN RITCHIE / BOWEN NATURE CLUB PHOTO

Sandy Beach is one of the few beaches on Bowen with actual sand and it’s a very short walk from the Cove. sible. Others, like Lighthouse Lane Beach, are quite well visited.

Neighbourhood beaches don’t have the same level of maintained facilities of the community beaches (e.g. no washrooms), and might be a little more difficult to access for some (e.g. many are accessed via stairs, or over logs). However, many still offer wonderful beach experiences.

Over the month of August, the Bowen Nature Club will lead you on a self-guided tour of the best neighbourhood beaches, via their twice-weekly Facebook activity.

As a sneak peak, let me mention the only truly sandy beach on the island. A real hidden gem: Alder Cove beach. We can’t do a beach tour without mentioning this local secret! If you are tired of rocky shores, and dream of plung-

Get in the SWING of things at the Grand Opening of the Tunstall Bay Community Association Courts!

ing your toes into soft sand, look no further.

On the other hand, if you hate sand, but enjoy the warm shallow waters of Sandy beach, try Woods Rd beach or Scarborough beach.

The latter has large smooth flat stones that don’t hurt your feet as much as some other shorelines.

If you are happy to keep your shoes on, I’d recommend King Edward Bay. It has a really neat trail leading to the beach, with many small bridges over a creek winding thought the forest. Several nice large rocks and logs on which to sit and gaze out at the waves make this a nice rustic picnic spot.

Perhaps you think footwear— and all clothing—is overrated. If you are a fan of Wreck Beach, you might be pleased to know that September Morn beach has the

distinction of being one of only two clothing optional beaches in the GVRD. You can even wave at your friends at Wreck Beach, as the two directly face each other… across 15km of ocean.

Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the super-secret Konichi Bay coastal access point. While not technically a beach, it is a delightful spot to eat a snack on the rocky bluff. Beware that good balance and sturdy footwear are a must here, but the payoff is well worth it.

Follow the Bowen Nature Club Facebook page, as we explore the above beaches (and more!) over the entire month of August. You may find your favourite beach is one you never knew existed!

Follow: facebook.com/bowennatureclub. Find the map at bowenislandmunicipality.ca/beaches.

Belterra Cohousing Bowen Island

YOUTH TENNIS CLINICS, SATURDAY AUGUST 14 TBCA invites the youth of Bowen Island to experience tennis on our brand new courts. TBCA is offering youth tennis clinics on Saturday August 14, 2021 and the clinics are open to all Bowen youth, both members and non-members. $25 for a 90 minute clinic.

9—10:30 am 5—11 yrs 10:30 am.—12 noon 12 yrs and up

For Sale by Owner 2 bdrm/1 bath

$779,000

Large windows and an open plan maximize natural light and ever-changing views in this desirable 867 sf, corner unit.

Quartz countertops, stainless appliances, skylights, soaker tub, frameless glass shower, propane fireplace and more. Savour sunrise and moonrise from your large, private deck.

Enjoy community and island living in your certified BuiltGreen® energy efficient home. Residents co-own a 3700 sf common house, guest rooms, gardens and a workshop.

Zoom Open House Saturday August 14, 1pm

Pre-registration is required. Please visit www.tunstallbay.org and follow the link to register and pay in advance.

For a detailed sales brochure, to request the Zoom link, or to schedule a viewing, email info@belterracohousing.ca or call 604-240-1036. belterracohousing.ca