Bowen Island Undercurrent October 28 2021

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CLARITY ELUDED: Mount Gardner motorized vehicle decision

Thursday, October 28, 2021 • A1

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 28 , 2021

FAIRY CREEK

VOL. 47 NO. 42

BIUndercurrent

BowUndercurrent www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

Bowen artist visits the blockade PAGE 5

Assembling again Nov. 11

PUBLIC CEREMONY AT CENOTAPH ON REMEMBRANCE DAY A GO BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

KATHLEEN AINSCOUGH / THE HEARTH PHOTO

STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS: The Hearth Gallery’s innovative new show, featuring local artists’

“inspiration boards” for their art, opened last week. The Artists’ pARTy Saturday evening saw participating artists gathering, even if they couldn’t be there in person, like Marie Neys (on the phone held by the exhibit’s co-curator Liz Nankin). Helen Taylor is on the far right. The show is on at the Hearth Gallery until Nov. 7.

What Bowen’s batmen discovered at the Cape WHAT’S THE SCOOP ON BOWEN BATS? LOUISE LOIK

Bowen Island Conservancy

With Halloween only days away, bat

images and decorations abound. In books and film, bats are depicted as the consorts of witches and are associated with black magic; they are the shape-shifters, vampires who live for

all eternity.

Bowen’s bats are not vampires and as far as an ability to live forever, our little brown bat can live an impressive three decades. They eat mosquitoes that suck blood, but they themselves, do not.

COMING SOON

CATES HILL OCEAN VIEW PROPERTY 3-4 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHS | 1-BEDROOM SUITE

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Timothy Rhodes REALTOR® 604-341-9488 rhodesonbowen.com tim@rhodesonbowen.com

CONTINUED ON P. 6

It’s usually one of the biggest gatherings of the year.

Hundreds and hundreds of people can be counted on to gather at the cenotaph for the Bowen Island Remembrance Day ceremony. Last year, because of COVID-19 restrictions and precautions, the event was pre-recorded and then streamed online.

This year, the in-person event is going ahead with the Legion asking people to follow all public health protocols.

The ceremony will go ahead between ferry loads (10:50 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.) with as much of the regular ceremony – including the piper and flyover – as the Legion can pull together.

“It’s not that the virtual ceremony didn’t serve a purpose,” says Legion president Yvonne McSkimming.

“But people being together, sharing space together, feeling connected, being able to see the folks who have wreaths, being able to physically participate in that action, I believe helps to remember what individuals and families of individuals who have served have given.

“Virtual just doesn’t cut it the same way as having those experiences face to face.”

Anyone wanting to place a wreath should order through the Bowen Island Flower Shop as soon as possible and then email either ymuzak@telus.net or rcl150manager@gmail.com to let them know you’ll be bringing a wreath to the ceremony, said McSkimming.

CONTINUED ON P. 11

A2 • Thursday, October 28, 2021

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Come and work with us

Notice of Intention to Dispose of Land

Events November 3, 2021 1:00 pm

Planning Clerk

This is a public notice under Section 26 of the Community Charter that Bowen Island Municipality intends to dispose of lands that are not being made available to the public for acquisition.

Committee of the Whole

November 4, 2021 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

BIM’s Planning and Development department has an immediate opening for a permanent full-time Planning Clerk, five days per week from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

Lot B is owned by the Municipality. It’s a property north of Bowen Island Trunk Road and east of 1011 Miller Road. The legal description is PID: 026-484-501, LOT B DISTRICT LOT 490 GROUP 1 NEW WESTMINSTER DISTRICT PLAN BCP20428 (“Lot B”).

Greenshores Workshop

November 8, 2021 6:15 pm Regular Council Meeting

Reporting to the Manager of Planning and Development, the position will be responsible for:

• • •

All meetings are online via Zoom and

open to the public, unless noted otherwise.

• •

Providing information to the public related to permits and related bylaws for building and planning issues, zoning, development permits, and development variance permits.

Variety of correspondence, reports, permit statistics and related material.

Assisting in receiving and processing various Planning related applications. Submits permits and notices of permits to the Land Titles Office for registration and is responsible for all correspondence between the Planning Department and clients.

Processing and maintaining an appropriate filing system for the departments including maintaining, updating and filing legal plans.

Preparing location maps and distributing packages to referral agencies.

Planner 1 BIM is looking for a permanent full-time Planner I to join our team immediately. The position offers an opportunity for you to work on a variety of projects and initiatives relevant to guiding the growth and direction of a community-focused municipality.

Help stop COVID-19:

Get vaccinated - everyone over 12 is eligible

The Municipality intends to exchange a portion of land from Lot B (shown in blue hatch) for an equivalent portion of land from 1011 Miller Road (shown in blue shading), to be dedicated as highway for the purposes of constructing the Multi-Use Path next to Bowen Island Trunk Road.

You can request to inspect a copy of the Land Exchange Agreement at Municipal Hall, 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, during our hours of operation of Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (closed on statutory holidays).

Questions? Please contact Sophie Idsinga, Deputy Corporate Officer at 604-947-4255 ext 246 or sidsinga@bimbc.ca

Wear a mask in indoor public spaces

BIM Council is looking for members for several advisory committees.

Committees meet several times a year and have an advisory function to Council.

Here are some of the committees looking for members: Advisory Design Panel, Advisory Planning Committee, Heritage Committee and the Transportation Advisory Committee.

ADVERTISEMENT October 28, 2021

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

Ice Patrol - Temperature Dependent Snow Removal - Weather Dependent Please provide a written response expressing interest in the On-Call position(s) by email before Friday, November 12, 2021 at 4:00 PM

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/jobs

For more information: www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/committees

Contact Bowen Island Municipality PAID

On-Call Ice Patrol/Snow Removal Services BIM seeks applications for interest in the following:

Committees needing members Stay home if you’re sick

Reporting to the Manager of Planning and Development, the Planner 1 will process development applications and other related Planning applications; conduct preliminary research and analysis with regards to a future Land Use Bylaw update; provide support and research for Council Strategic Initiatives; develop material and support facilitation for community engagement; support the Planning Technician in handling planning and building pre-application inquiries and building plan reviews; and provide excellent customer service to internal and external agencies and groups.

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

Find us on Facebook Bowen Island Municipality

Subscribe to our mailing list bowenislandmunicipality.ca/subscribe

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No motorized ban on Mount Gardner ?

Get to know your neighbour

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor

MEET: HILARY BUTLER What year did you come to Bowen?

1981 How did you come to be here? We were living in a townhouse in North Vancouver and I hated it. And I came over to Bowen on a whim and saw this house with a tree trunk in the middle of living room and fell in love with it.

Is that the house you’re still in? Yep. The house is built around a tree trunk? The house is sort of built around the tree trunk. It’s a dead tree. It’s not a live tree. There’s a tree trunk right in the middle of the living room.

That’s so cool.

Where on Bowen do you live? The best part of Bowen, which is Miller’s Landing area.

What’s your favourite place on Bowen? Goodness me, Miller’s Landing. And all of the trails.

What’s something Bowen Islanders have in common? We’re all fairly eccentric if we stay long enough.

What’s your favourite Bowen fact or story? I’ve been here so long, there are a lot of stories – many of them aren’t repeatable in the newspaper.

In the “old days” when we used to commute to town, the ferry was full

Thursday, October 28, 2021 • A3

of derelict cars, unlike the fancy ones we have nowadays. You knew everyone who was on the ferry and there was lots of socialising, particularly on Friday afternoons when someone would break open a bottle or two and there would be lots of merrymaking. The best party ever on the ferry was the last run of the Howe Sound Queen. Nowadays, I scarcely know a soul on board, partially because our commuting days are over and also because the population has at least tripled since we arrived.

What do you do for fun these days?

Spend time with my family and friends, swim in the summer, hiking and jog (slowly) at other times of year.

When you’re going around Killarney Lake, do you go right or left? Probably go right. As someone said the other day, then you get the hard part over first.

A lack of clarity in the future Mount Gardner recreational use had Bowen Island Municipality’s council members voicing frustration at the regular council meeting Monday evening.

A letter dated Sept. 20 from Recreation Sites and Trails BC, delivered the long-awaited decision on whether the province would be banning motorized use of the Mount Gardner Crown lands.

“RSTBC with assistance from the recreational user groups will create a non-motorized recreation experience within the Mount Gardner Recreation Site, leading from a highway vehicle accessible trailhead to the summit of Mount Gardner,” read the decision. “The summit ridge of Mount Gardner is to provide a non-motorized recreation experience.” [That is the entire text of the decision though several paragraphs of reasoning follow.]

What exactly is meant by the decision, staff and council weren’t sure.

“The only thing that’s really certain in the letter is that a decision has been made by the ministry that the summit ridge will be excluded from motorized recreational use, and that…there will be the provision for an experience from the highway to the summit where there’ll be no motorized use,” said BIM CAO Liam Edwards at the meeting.

“When a letter is written in such a way that it eludes clarification, it will be subject to interpretation,” said Coun. Michael Kaile. “I hope the writer will assist us greatly in saying exactly what it is that he wished to be conveyed because it’s eluded us all so far.”

Coun. Maureen Nicholson asked for the letter to be released to the public, and council agreed. The entire letter is now online as part of the meeting’s

SEAR, APRIL FRANCES (nee Moore) August 20, 1934 – October 16, 2021 April Sear of Bowen Is. BC, passed away peacefully at Lion’s Gate Hospital. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, R. G. (Gerry) Sear, daughter Kimberlee, son Brent and her grandchildren, Mathew Jones (predeceased), Trevor Sear (Alysha) and Karli Sear (Matt) as well as her sister Karen (Ted - deceased), sistersin-law Leslie (Nigel) and Wend (Harry – deceased) and many nieces and nephews.

The most important part of April’s life was her family. Even after 2 ½ months in hospital visits always resulted in a smile. Dinners with family and friends on Bowen Is. were always an event. She was an amazing cook and was always delighted when Trevor and Karli brought a few extra friends with them, resulting in lots of stories and laughs around the dinner table.

April and Gerry loved adventure, especially when it came to seeing other parts of the world. In 1961, they sold their house and possessions and sailed away to New Zealand with their 2 children, Kim (3 yrs) and Brent (3 months). They adapted well to life in NZ and ended up spending 8 wonderful years there.

April believed in “giving back” to her community. She was an integral part of many volunteer organizations, serving as the president of the following: SKY (Seniors Keeping Young) on Bowen Is., BCAHA (BC Assoc. of Health Care Auxiliaries) and BC Women’s Hospital Auxiliary.

She loved her garden, the opera and her grandchildren’s rugby and soccer games (even in bad weather) and getting together with family and friends. We will miss her beautiful smile and gentle hugs.

A family service will be held sometime in the future.

agenda package bowenisland.civicweb.net/document/252594.

In 2018, three local groups – Bowen Island Trail Society, Bowen Trail Riders Association and Bowen Island Horse Owners and Riders Association – signed a two-year partnership agreement allowing them to work on the trails. The three groups formed a trails coalition, but the coalition dissolved a couple of years later amidst the partnership agreement expiring and local controversy over whether or not motorized vehicles belong on the mountain.

In April 2020, BIM council unanimously requested the province ban motorized vehicles on the slopes of Bowen’s tallest hill, following up on more than 100 letters from community members.

“Restricting all motorized use in the recreation site has a high risk of creating conflict and discord amongst historical users, with a low likelihood of success of preventing motorized use in the area,” reasoned RSTBC’s regional manager for the coast Robert van der Zalm in the letter. “Restricting motorized use would require a level of enforcement that is not currently available. Without an effective enforcement plan, making regulatory change on its own is not justifiable.”

BIM is engaging with the three previous agreement holders and RSTBC’s Tom Blackbird “to better interpret, understand the decision letter and to create a path forward” said Edwards at the council meeting. It’s also reaching out to other groups who may be interested in being involved with Mount Gardner stewardship in the future. Edwards added that the ministry agrees it would like to see BIM become the primary agreement holder, when it comes to Mount Gardner, and then the municipality would work with the other local groups.

Any formalized response and path forward will come back for council direction, said Edwards.

Helen Elizabeth Ashmore (nee Paulsen)

passed away, age 75, from cancer at home in Edmonton on October 16, 2021 with her family at her bedside.

She leaves to mourn her passing, her daughters: Dana Farnell (Leland Corbett) and Jennifer Pretty (Greg); her grandchildren: Morgan, Dylan, and Darian Corbett, Luke and Tessa Pretty. She also leaves to mourn her two brothers: Bill Paulsen (Inger) and Jack Paulsen; her sister Barbara North (Alan); two nieces: Robin Sundal (Noel Zinger), Michelle Natusch (Oluf) and her nephew Michael Paulsen (Isabelle). Helen also leaves behind dear friends both in Edmonton and on Bowen Island.

Helen was predeceased by her parents: Soren and Dora Paulsen; her sister-in-law Diane Paulsen and her beloved son Jacob Ashmore.

Helen lived for many of her adult years in Edmonton where she worked as a community psychiatric nurse. In her retirement, Helen moved to Bowen Island where she made many friends and was active in the community. For example, she enjoyed her years of volunteer service at Bowen’s thrift store, affectionately known as the Nook. She spent many winters in Cuba where she developed a community of friends whom she loved like family and enjoyed being generous with them. Helen travelled extensively. She sang in several choirs and played the piano. Three years ago, to her joy, Helen was received into the Roman Catholic Church.

A prayer service will be held for Helen, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 13 Brower Drive, Sherwood Park on October 29, 2021 at 3:30 pm. The service will be live-streamed at https:/www.olph.ca/video/. Donations in Helen’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Covid protocols are in effect for the service. Masks must be worn, and social distancing is expected.

A4 • Thursday, October 28, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

VIEWPOINTS

FROM THE LIBRARY

Two-sentence horror stories The Bowen Island Library kindly shared some of the marvellous two-sentence stories islanders have submitted over the past month. To see all of the scary, creepy and silly stories (and some pretty neat drawings) visit the library.

“Looking up, you can no longer see light from the surface.

Treading water deep below the surface, something suddenly scrapes against your leg, and then you hear beeping in your earpiece, your oxygen is almost out.” By Malcolm, age 15.

A COUPLE OF CORRECTIONS The fellow on the far right of last week’s Undercurrent front page photo was misidentified as Barry Pynn. The man in the photo is in fact Gregory Pollard (Barry was at the Diving against Debris event, but that was not him).

I’m sorry for the mistake Greg and Barry.

As well, last week’s page 15 real estate story from Tim Rhodes was illegible because of an exporting error on my end. I’m reprinting the story on page 7 so that people may read it without squinting or guessing at half the words.

My apologies to Tim and our readers.

–Bronwyn Beairsto, editor

“Young Dmitri, come over and dip your soft fingers into the timeless well that is your impending doom.

Earthly temptations bring you to the grey cold realm of one thousand condemned souls, seething and oozing, awaiting their own.” By Nancy “As the darkness crept closer and closer she knew her last breaths were upon her.

The last thing she saw was her mother’s eyes staring into her soul.” By Beck, age 15.

“Thomas was walking, always walking, he can’t run never run, running is death, don’t know why, last two people never run, where are they?

Why am I running because of always It.” By Alexander, age 15.

“An elephant crossed the road and went ah-choo! And then it smashed!” By Domino, age 2.

“The people went out for the walk and the ghost Dinos smashed through everybody. Everybody smashed! Through it!”

By Leo, age 3.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOWEN ISLAND INTEGRATED HEALTH

Submissions for Bowen Island Integrated Health’s Carve up the Cove contest are starting to arrive. Pumpkins can be dropped off up until Oct. 29, when online voting starts. More details on the BIIH Facebook page.

Pleading ignorance: Heather Coulthart snapped this shot of a delinquent deer snacking on the apple tree next to the entrance to Collins Farm.

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

“Once there was a hungry ghost, so at night the ghost stole all of the Bowen kid’s candy! The end.

By Justin, age 11 “The last time that Rita saw John was when she watched him board the 11:59 ferry to Horseshoe Bay last Thursday night.

BC Ferries confirms that there was no 11:59 ferry to Horseshoe Bay last Thursday night.” By Martin, age 50. “...a chilling, dry wind blew through the trees, their skeletal branches clicking and clacking together.

A shadowy figure emerged from the trunk of the sycamore and walked toward my window...the Dark Lord was back.” By Hannah, age 14.

“Sitting at home alone...in the dark...3 a.m....can’t sleep...heart beating...hearing footsteps on the deck...too scared to turn on the lights!

Stand up...peering through the windows...seeing the reflection of HUGE eyeballs looking directly at me...let out a scream and scare the pesky deer away.”

By Murray.

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.

“Thank you for finally providing me with your Instagram password,” the sinister figure said to award-winning food blogger, Chef Michel, whom she had tied to a chair.

“This should be fun; I know nothing about blowfish,” she confessed as she posted her hastily written article: “How to safely prepare blowfish.” By Martin, age 50.

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.

War art?

BOWEN ISLAND ARTIST CONTEMPLATES HER ENVIRONMENTALISM IN A VISIT TO THE FAIRY CREEK BLOCKADE

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor

During the First World War, the Canadian government commissioned its first official war art. Artists like A.Y. Jackson and F.H. Varley were tasked with depicting Canada’s contribution to the war and painted now famous scenes of death and destruction.

Eight thousand kilometres and a hundred years away, artist Jean Bradbury surveyed fallen trees and a broken landscape in B.C.’s most prominent contemporary old growth battleground: Fairy Creek’s Tree Farm Licence 46.

Those First World War paintings of destroyed forests stuck in her brain. “They were bombed instead of clear cut, but dead trees lying everywhere. Mud, puddles, just the skeleton of death – these huge trees, dead,” says Bradbury. “It was very similar visually, and then emotionally too because these kids were practically, and in some cases literally, living in trenches.”

A few weeks ago, the island artist spent three nights sleeping in her car at the Fairy Creek blockade, where people have flocked for the more than a year to prevent or dis-

bowenislandundercurrent.com rupt old-growth logging. On Sept. 15, Fairy Creek surpassed the Clayoquot Sound logging protests as the largest act of civil disobedience in number of arrests in Canada’s history.

Bradbury was at the site between the B.C. Supreme Court’s ruling against the extending of an injunction barring interference with logging in Tree Farm Licence 46 and the injunction’s temporary reinstatement Oct. 8. “I actually went at a rather cushy time,” says Bradbury. “They weren’t making mass arrests.” “[The injunction]’s been put back and it’s much more hair-raising and dangerous for the forest defenders,” she says. “I’m grateful that I got to see it at a peaceful time.”

In travelling to the Fairy Creek site, Bradbury was looking for answers.

“My art, it’s always been about environment, land. It celebrates the beauty and magic of the plants, and the flowers and the landscape and the animals and how we are connected,” Bradbury tells the Undercurrent.

“My focus is shifting from simply celebrating the environment, to inquiring about our relationship to the environment.”

As someone who recently bought a forested lot on unceded Squamish territory, and in the midst of a climate crisis, Bradbury’s been grappling with questions of ownership, stewardship and settler guilt. She’s also long made art with displaced peoples – founding Studio Syria in 2011 to bring creative education to refugees fleeing the Syrian war; teaching art classes in refugee camps in Jordan; and made art with displaced peoples at the Mexico-U.S. border.

“During the years I spent working in Jordan I learned that the Palestinian/Israeli conflict is built on the same issue – not a

fight for religion but a fight for land. Are all wars similarly based on control of land?” asks Bradbury in her artist statement.

She notes that traditionally, Canadian art (like Group of Seven) hasn’t had people in it, doing a disservice to people seeing themselves as part of the environment.

“I think important to being human is to address what it is to be human in the environment,” says Bradbury.

“That’s my current question. But I don’t really know the ins and outs of it,” she says.

So I thought ‘I’ll just go to where people feel the most passionate and I’ll paint those people and maybe they’ll give me an answer.’

“They’re putting their spirits and bodies on the front lines, because they feel so passionately.

“I’ll see what that feels like. If to be so black and white, to take one side so strongly, I’ll feel if that feels correct for me.”

Did it feel right for Bradbury?

“I felt sort of moral wrongness of destroying an old-growth forest,” she says. “And yet, I’m speaking to you from a house that was certainly built on a forest that was cut.

“None of us would be here if we hadn’t trashed the forest, except First Nations people, so it’s not a black and white issue.”

In the end, Bradbury supports the people preventing the logging of old-growth forest.

“There was this huge sense of community and maybe that’s sort of war-like as well,” says Bradbury. “But they have been pretty traumatized. They’re kids – most of them are in their 20s. They were the age of my children, which added a poignancy.”

“They had mostly all been arrested, the people I talked to. Carried out, dragged out, but also traumatized by just the being feeling that they were in opposition to power.

Thursday, October 28, 2021 • A5

“People I spoke to tended to have different reasons for being up there,” she says.

“Many of them were there for anti-colonial reasons – they wanted to preserve First Nations land rights.”

“Inevitably, I think everybody said, ‘Well, I came for a day or two [for reasons of ] anti-capitalism, anti-colonialism, but I stayed because it’s a community.”

“One woman said she’s never felt as safe as she does now in this new community that she’s found,” says Bradbury. “I thought that was fascinating, because they’re pretty much under attack all the time by the police.”

“That was a theme running throughout, that I hadn’t expected,” says Bradbury.

“They’re forming community and they love it. Which is fascinating because it’s based on different values than what we live in day to day here on Bowen Island.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEAN BRADBURY

A6 • Thursday, October 28, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Conservancy park has at least six bat species CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Insects that fly at dusk are the choice of food for local bats that may be active at dusk and dawn, at night or both periods. They hang upside down to sleep, but some will hibernate furled in crevices in rocks, or between stacked logs. They can see quite well, but tuning into echoes of their own ultrasonic voices, they can echolocate objects as fine as a human hair and can therefore fly with amazing accuracy. Though small with big ears, an attribute that has given some species their designation as the group with “mouse ears,” or “Myotis” bats, they are not rodents. They are the only mammals that fly and are not related to birds.

Of the 16 bat species found in the province, the Bowen Island Conservancy recently discovered six species at their new conservation area; this includes a federally designated endangered species, the little brown myotis.

Jeff Matheson, a volunteer biologist for the conservancy initiated the research on the site with a loan of audio recording equipment that identifies ultrasonic bats chirps as they echolocate insects. The equipment on loan from Tetra Tech Canada captured vocalizations specific to six bat species, and possibly more.

Matheson is part of a team of biologists, including Will Husby and Alan Whitehead, volunteering their expertise to the Conservancy as the organization works feverishly to learn about species at the site as they plan for the gradual opening of trails. “You’ll only get one chance to get it right,” cautions Matheson, in reference to human impact on animals and plants. Preliminary research like this study is key.

The team selected monitoring stations with potential food sources and possible roosting sites.

Though bats can be heard chirping to communicate with each other, the equipment recorded and analyzed the otherwise inaudible-to-human echolocation bats use to zero in on food sources: termites, carpenter ants, wasps, beetles, moths, mosquitoes. The large bats vocalize with lower

What to do if you find a dead or sick bat:

LOUISE LOIK PHOTO

Bats should not be handled, but this one was discovered in the B.C. Interior and was being handled by a researcher. frequency echolocation than smaller species.

The lower frequency detects larger prey, such as hard-shelled beetles, carpenter ants and termites. Smaller bats emit higher frequency chirps that target small, soft-bodied insects.

Matheson analyzed the recorded data and was surprised at the results. “There were definitely more species than I expected.”

Without capturing bats, or analyzing their droppings, biologists can’t claim 100 per cent certainty on the identification, but between the men and machine, there is a “high level of confidence” that the area hosts at least six types of bats. We may also have two others: Townsend’s big-eared bat and big brown are likely to be present, but not recorded. This would bring bat species to eight, representing half of all the species in the province and a large percentage of all bat biodiversity in Canada.

According to the study, the conservation area hosts Canada’s biggest bat, the hoary bat, and one of the smallest, the aforementioned little brown myotis. “Myotis” the “mouse-eared” bat species include the Californian, western long-eared, yuma, and long-legged myotis, all of which were discovered by the Conservancy last summer.

The hoary bat, considered to be migratory, is 13 to 15 cm long with a wingspan of 36 to 41 cm; they are strong fliers who may migrate as far as Mexico. The silver-haired bat, another species documented, may migrate south where they may remain active or hibernate, or they may remain on island. Unfortunately, information on B.C. bats is sketchy, On Bowen, the Californian myotis, western long-eared myotis, yuma myotis and little brown myotis are species that are likely to stick around over the winter. Some types will use bat houses, others have specific needs more suited to rotting trees, or caves. The little brown myotis weighs as much as four pennies but may travel hundreds of kilometres to a hibernation site, returning there year after year. They will also use bat houses.

Matheson says, “Bats are not well-studied compared to other animals. Because they are

JEFF MATHESON PHOTO

Alan Whitehead sets up a subsonic recorder to identify island bats at the Cape conservation area. nocturnal and not easily observed, there are poor records in our region.” In addition, “there are concerns about decline due to changing prey availability, and white nose [syndrome].” The biologist also wonders what effect the extreme heat had on insects that are prey for bats. “It’s something I’d be interested in finding out.”

Unfortunately, half of B.C. bat species are vulnerable, threatened or endangered. Some of the bats migrate and some hibernate. White nose syndrome and Pd, the fungus responsible for devastating bat populations east of B.C. is beginning to be a threat too in this province, having been recorded as close to Bowen as Seattle. While no threat to humans, it’s putting some bats, like the little brown on the brink of extinction in some places.

The species most affected are those that hibernate in colonies.

Roosting is when bats shelter for sleep, but are active, not in hibernation.

It’s common for bat moms to form maternal colonies where they collectively raise the ambient temperature around their babies. It also makes an entire bat nursery vulnerable to a single threat like the felling of the tree where they are gathered.

Depending on the species, bats roost or hibernate in buildings, behind bark in dead trees, tucked deep into crevices in rocks, or in your woodpile. Disturbing a hibernating bat is very hard on the bat as it forces it to use its body’s fat stores as it seek out a new site. If you find one outside, the best thing to do is leave it under cover, undisturbed.

“The research sets a baseline for future monitoring,” says Matheson, adding, “further analysis may tell us about habitat association and use.”

For now, this first research project reinforces the value of conservation areas as places for biodiversity and the joys of nature exploration and discovery.

With the growing number of detections of white nose syndrome and Pd (the fungus responsible) in Washington State, the B.C. Community Bat Program is asking for the public’s help in reporting dead or sick bats. From Nov. 1 through May 31 (WNS surveillance period), if possible, collect the dead bat (without touching it with bare hands) and wrap with a paper towel and place in a plastic zip lock bag. Contact your local bat program immediately. Refrigerate the specimen or freeze if it will be longer than 48 hours before the bat is picked up.

White nose syndrome is a fungus that is not harmful to humans.

Bats on your property:

Whether you have bats and want them out of your house or are happy leaving the colony where it is, reporting your colony helps scientists keep track of bats in B.C. We are also very happy to hear from landowners who are happy to have their bats where they are so we can provide you with information to identify and monitor the bat colony. All 17 species of bats in B.C. are protected under the Provincial Wildlife Act. Email info@bcbats.ca or call 1-855-922-2287.

To learn more about our bats, visit the Bowen Island Conservancy Facebook page or visit: bcbats.ca efauna.bc.ca Canadian wildlife federation:cwf-fcf.org/en/ explore/bats/bats-101.html

In memory of our loved ones who served or lost their lives to war.

Please submit a name, photo or story for the Undercurrent Remembrance Day edition Please email to Bronwyn at editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

by Friday Nov 5, 5pm

Remembrance Day Edition Thursday November 11

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, October 28, 2021 • A7

Third quarter sales lowest since 2012

Inventory Month of September

21

Q1 – Q3 INVENTORY LOWEST IN 10 YEARS

TIM RHODES Contributor

MLS® HPI vs Average Sale vs Median Sale YoY at September 30

Meet Holly and Millie!

Millie and Holly are two adorable pups who we have seen for their puppy vaccines. Millie and Holly are neighbours and have become the best of friends!

Per Cent Change YoY

0

+27.5%

1 600k

1 200k

10

20 2020

2021

30

2019

40

2018

YoY Percentage Change Median Price / Average Price / MLS® HPI

COVID-19 Restrictions

1 400k

+24.3% +33.4%

50

25

0 1 000k

Average Sale Median Sale

-25

MLS® HPI

-50

800k

MLS® HPI

Average Sale

as one of the more affordable options in the lower mainland, Bowen Island’s YoY benchmark price has risen from the lowest 20 per cent to the median price for Metro Vancouver.

Year-over-year, in 2019, fifty-four per cent of homes sold for less than $1.0 million; in 2020, 38 per cent sold for less than$1.0 million; and in 2021, 20 per cent sold for less than $1.0 million. The lowest price paid for a home in September this year was $1.212 million and the highest paid was $1.764

Patients of the Week HOLLY AND MILLIE

40 0 37

Se p18 N ov -1 8 Ja n19 M ar -1 9 M ay -1 9 Ju l-1 9 Se p19 N ov -1 9 Ja n20 M ar -2 0 M ay -2 0 Ju l-2 0 Se p20 N ov -2 0 Ja n21 M ar -2 1 M ay -2 1 Ju l-2 1 Se p21

The third quarter of 2021, July through September, registered the least number of sales since 2012, with only one-third compared to Q3 2020 and less than half compared to Q3 2019. Inventory in the first three quarters of 2021was the lowest in 10 years for Q1-Q3. At the same time the MLS® Home Price Index, Average Sale Price, and Median Sale Price was up month-over-month and year-over-year for all three quarters of 2021, underscoring the relationship between low inventory and upward pressure on prices.

Although the MLS® HPI, Average Sale Price, and Median Sale Price have continued to increase—up YoY by 32.2, 27.5, and 24.3 per cent respectively—rising prices have not encouraged listings.

Because of Bowen’s long history encouraging large lot single family developments, for those wishing to downsize on Bowen there is little diversity in housing styles, such as homes with single floor living, attached homes (duplexes and row houses), homes with attached or detached suites for caregivers, mortgage helpers, or extended family, or even secure tenure rental accommodation. As a result, property owners are choosing to remain in their homes rather than leave the island.

For buyers, the YoY benchmark price on Bowen continued to rise, reaching $1.297 million in September 2021. Once known

39

For Sale

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

Median Sale

million. On October 15, 2021, there were 18 active detached home listings on Bowen. The lowest listed price was $1.299 million. The highest was an outlier, $17.588 million, and the next highest was $4.840 million.

Expect more of the same through the last quarter of 2021. Low inventory will keep pressure on prices although increases will moderate.

Timothy Rhodes, REALTOR® rhodesonbowen.com Angell Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd.

2017-18

2018-19

Med Price

2019-20

Avg Sale Price

2020-21

MLS® HPI

YoY Percentage Change No. of Sales / Total Inventory / $ Per Square Foot 50

25

0

-25 -50

2017-18

2018-19

Total Inventory

2019-20

No. of Sales

2020-21 $ Per Sq Ft

A8 • Thursday, October 28, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

CARMINA BOWENA BOWEN’S VOCAL CONSORT Audition call for basses and altos.

Info at 778-926-4286

What ‘special places’should we next find and preserve?

COMMITTE SEEKING SUGGESTIONS

JEREMY HOWE

Avid hiker; member of Parks, Trails and Greenways Committee

Snug Cove House Society Annual General Meeting 10:30 Saturday, November 20th Please contact susanmunro77@gmail.com for Zoom access

@ @BowUndercurrent

Over the years, the Parks, Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee (PTGAC), in conjunction with municipal staff, has developed a series of forward-looking considerations to better envision and ultimately ensure in perpetuity, an enriching and coherent natural environment on Bowen Island.

One of these initiatives concerns the identification of “special places” and (where deemed practical and necessary) to encourage their potential acquisition by the municipality – or other administrative body – either as park, preserve, or under other protected status. Fairy Fen is a successful example. [Editor’s note: The Bowen Island Conservancy-managed, Islands Trust Conservancy-owned nature preserve was created in 2010 after consultation with the Bowen community.]

A “special place” is broadly defined as any area considered to be of particular aesthetic, environmental or recreational significance. The identification of these unique locales and promoting their importance is an ongoing process. Intent on avoiding the far too familiar outcome of not knowing what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone, Bowen Island’s Parks Plan describes the aspiration of parkland acquisition and areas of interest in more detail (pages 47 through 50).

One of the extraordinary things about our generous Crown lands is the seemingly endless ability to discover areas that are rarely, if ever, visited and it’s often there that

October 12, 2021 to March 22, 2022

BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH E BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH Sunday Worship 10:30 am v l Rev. Lorraine Ashdown M Lynn Williams - Minister of Music.

Helen Wallwork leads Sunday School.

DEPART HORSESHOE BAY

5:50 am 5:20 am except Sundays 6:50 am 6:20 am 7:30 am 8:00 am 8:35 am 9:05 am except Wednesdays 9:40 am 10:15 am 11:25 am 10:50 am 12:00 pm 12:35 pm 1:10 pm 2:20 pm 2:55 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm except Wednesdays 4:35 pm 5:10 pm 5:45 pm 6:50 pm 6:15 pm 8:00 pm except Saturdays 7:25 pm except Saturdays 8:30 pm 9:00 pm 10:00 pm 9:30 pm 10:30pm Note: Schedules subject to change without notice: Please check BCFERRIES.COM Schedule changes on statutory holidays

unique island gems are revealed. Sections of the northern slopes of Mount Collins and the watershed of Lee Creek are just two examples of areas with remarkable samples of untouched forest that are easily imagined as candidates for parks or other conservation designation.

The constraints of the pandemic and dramatic increase in island trail use have emphasized the importance of Bowen’s wildlands in the appreciation and well-being of everyone desperate for a calming reprieve in the lap of nature. As our numbers grow, the Bowen we currently know will inevitably and significantly change, as will the demands upon the use of its hinterland. It’s therefore incumbent upon us to recognize, mobilize and protect the rich natural fabric that distinguishes our island and long before it’s lost to the careless sweep of time.

What are your special places? Please let the Parks, Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee know PTGAC@bimbc. ca.

Places of Worship Welcome You

Queen of Capilano Ferry Schedule DEPART BOWEN ISLAND

JEREMY HOWE PHOTO

A young Dean Mountain (he’s now 10) on Crown land on the north slope of Mount Collins. This large fir is pushing seven feet in diameter and is completely healthy, according to Jeremy Howe.

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

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, October 28, 2021 • A9

BOWEN NATURE CLUB

The woolybear caterpillar’s great migration EVERY FALL, THESE SMALL SPIKY HAIRED INSECTS CRAWL HUNDREDS OF METRES TO FIND COZY HIBERNATION SITES AND THEN FREEZE SOLID

WILL HUSBY

Bowen Nature Club

October is a month of great change.

The weather is getting wetter and cooler, plants and animals are preparing for winter. In my daily walks through the meadow adjacent to the horse ring in Crippen Park, I am seeing the grasses turn from green to brown and the last buttercup and thistle flowers go to seed. Some days I see small flocks of juncos stopping off for a snack of insects and seeds as they make their way south for the winter.

But for me one of the sure signs of autumn is the mass migration of a much smaller creature, the banded woolybear caterpillar. At this time of year they are a little over two and a half centimetres long and are covered with stiff hairs. Their front and rear sections are black with a rusty-red mid section.

Each fall, these full-grown caterpillars stop eating the grasses and herbs in the meadow, climb down to the ground and begin a determined trek to find cozy hibernation sites.

If you could shrink down to their size and follow one, you may have to travel several hundred metres to a dry patch of soil covered by dead leaves and

sticks to watch it curl up to sleep, until the coming of spring.

Even though the woolybears seek out insulated hibernation sites, these cold-blooded creatures are often exposed to temperatures well below freezing. Their tiny bodies often freeze solid. First their hearts stop, then their digestive tract will freeze, followed by their blood, and then the remainder of their bodies freeze. This would kill most creatures, because ice crystals would rip unrepairable holes in their cells. The woolybear’s secret is that its tissues are full of cryoprotectant chemicals that protect cell structures from ice damage.

If we get a sunny spell in midwinter when the wollybears’ hibernation places warm above freezing, some will awaken and go out for a short

walkabout before finding another cozy hibernation place.

When spring finally comes, the woolybears awaken and again get on the move. This time they are looking for a safe spot among the grass stems to weave a cocoon where they will transform into a pupa.

After two or three weeks, the pupa splits its skin and a pretty pale Isabella moth emerges.

After mating with a male, the female Isabella moth will lay hundreds of eggs on the leaves of a wide variety of plants in the meadow and surrounding forest.

When they hatch, a new generation of woolybear caterpillars will begin.

Note: scientists have not found woolybear caterpillars to be pests of food crops or ornamental plants.

Remembrance Day Ceremony on Bowen Island Thursday November 11, 2021 The Bowen Island Royal Canadian Legion will host the island’s Remembrance Day Ceremony at the Cenotaph in Snug Cove. All are welcome to attend with respect to Provincial Health protocols for gathering. The service will commence after the 10:50 ferry departs the cove.

WILL HUSBY PHOTO

A woolybear caterpillar. This one has many water droplets lodged in its hairs from a recent rain storm.

Rave reviews bring back Caring Circle’s ToughTimesToolkit course Caring Circle’s Tough Times Toolkit is being offered for the second time because 100 per cent of the spring course participants recommended that other Bowen Islanders have this opportunity. Participants can choose between Thursday evening (6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) classes or Friday midday classes (11a.m. to 1 p.m.), starting November 11 and 12 and running for six weeks. Each class lasts two hours and introduces a new topic and tool.

Maureen Mackey, RN, BSN, M.Ed.(DE) is teaching the course as a volunteer. Her professional background includes psychiatric nursing, adult education, and online teaching.

This course is not therapy or counselling, and is not intended for people in crisis or with acute needs. Rather, this course is designed for everyday folks who want to take a proactive approach to managing their mental health.

“It’s a strength-based course,” describes Mackey. The

course begins by addressing self-efficacy and learning about what strengths define individuals. “We build on these particular strengths and then add specific tools each week.”

The course ends by putting the tools together to answer the question: “How are we going to use our strengths and the tools to develop an ongoing resilience building plan?’”

“My hope is that people learn to count on themselves,” said Mackey. “Counselling yourself based on who you are, what your strengths are, and applying these tools in order to experience successes and learning on an everyday basis.”

Importantly, on our small island, all of the previous participants felt comfortable with the confidentiality of the classes.

More information is available on the Caring Circle website. Interested islanders can call or email Colleen O’Neil, program director, at 604-947-9100 or info@caringcircle.ca.

Read the entire Undercurrent story online.

If you’ll be placing a wreath this year please contact the Legion to add your name to the wreath procession list.

Please email Yvonne ymuzak@telus.net or Maureen rcl150manager@gmail.com Wreathes for delivery to the Cenotaph are available for order from the Bowen Island Flower Shop.

Place your order before November 4th by email to bowenislandflowershop@shaw.ca Please note, the legion will not be available for wreath drop off.

Once again the Legion will offer its traditional Remembrance Day lunch after the service and will be open from 11:30 to 4 pm. Double vaccination, id and mask required. This year’s menu will not include a pot lu uck due to o he ealth pro oto ocols s.

We hope to see as many islanders as possible!

We're making a list of events for the Undercurrent's second annual Holiday Guide delivering to Bowen mailboxes NOV. 25TH LET US KNOW IF YOU WOULD LIKE A LISTING FOR YOUR EVENT Please email your event to Tracey ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com before Wednesday November 10 5 pm

A10 • Thursday, October 28, 2021

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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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HEALTH & WELLNESS BOWEN ISLAND WELLNESS CENTRE 604-947-9755

at the entrance to Artisan Square Suite 597 7

FLU SHOTS FOR OUR PATIENTS

Book online at bowenislandwellnesscentre.ca

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

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Volunteers needed to keep Legion afloat CONTINUED FROM P. 1

Following the cenotaph event, the Legion is hosting a lunch for anyone who has proof of double vaccination, ID and a mask. The lunch won’t be potluck because of health restrictions.

As the Legion gears up for Remembrance Day, McSkimming is putting out a passionate plea for more board members and volunteers. “Legions are closing and we’re no different,” says McSkimming. “Our board members…we’re operating on a skeleton [crew] and that is not sustainable.”

The Bowen Island Legion – going on 85

I&I TOWING HAULING LTD

years as an island institution – cannot survive without more volunteers and board members, says McSkimming. The issue of a changing volunteer base – younger families with less free time – doesn’t help but, people are still needed to keep island volunteer organizations running. (The Legion has one employee – a part-time manager.)

While some people may think the Bowen Island Legion gets funding from the national “mothership” as McSkimming calls it, the relationship goes the other direction – with the Bowen Legion paying membership dues.

The Legion has a long history of commu-

nity events – from community lunches and dinners (which continued through the pandemic), to having charities use their space for fundraising events. “It’s a community hub that every member that’s attached to any kind of organization calls upon,” says McSkimming.

On a personal note, the islander’s been connected to the Bowen Legion for about seven years. “I’m thrilled with how much the Legion is used – I’m astonished at how much it’s taken advantage of.

“It’s been the one constant that this island has had well over [80] years. Yet, most times,

Thursday, October 28, 2021 • A11

it’s the one thing that’s forgotten about.

“It’s just assumed somebody will take care of it. Somebody will make it be possible so everybody else can use it,” says McSkimming. “That’s not how the Legionm is supposed to work and it can’t continue to work like that.”

But, McSkimming also wishes to acknowledge the people who have kept the Legion running – vice-president Jason Zahara, Lynn Hartle, manager Maureen Sawasy, past presidents David Wrinch and Tim Hausch and others. Anyone wishing to get involved can email the two addresses given on page 1.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

Vehicles • Construction Equipment Sea-Can Containers • Tiny Homes

RENOVATIONS RESTORATION ADDITIONS

Bowen Island • Greater Vancouver Vancouver Island • Sunshine Coast

SECONDARY STRUCTURES UNIQUE OUTDOOR SPACES SUB CONTRACT WORK

BUILT GREEN BC BUILDER Michael Bingham • 604 947 1717 ianditowhaul@gmail.com

Landscape Lighting Irrigation

Seascape Bruce Culver

Office: 604-947-9686

Cell: 604-329-3045

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

BOWEN ISLAND ROOFING ROOFING & REPAIRS

604-987-7663

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778.266.6465 www.bowenislandelectrical.com

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

On Bowen 778-995-1902

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

A12 • Thursday, October 28, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com MARY DAVEY PHOTO

Bowen Islanders are getting ready for another COVID19 Halloween with several neighbourhoods holding trick-or-treating, including Deep Bay (which is to have an amazing pumpkin display), Bluewater and Scarborough (Upper lower oceanview, Jason Rd, Deerwalk). Check in with neighbours and nieghbourhood associations for localized plans.

CALENDAR PREPARE FOR A CHALLENGE AND GET INTO THE MUD - TO GET KIDS OUT OF THE MUD! Fundraising Goal: A fundraiser to raise $400K in support of Student Bursaries and our new community Field House Compete: A 2 km obstacle race competition for ages 11 to 111. Gather a team of 2-4 players and pick a theme!

Bid: Online and silent auctions PRIZE DRAW: Every individual registered in the Mudder Race will have a chance to win a (4) night Mayan Palace Mexico trip, at a choice of 4 locations! (Parent(s) win when the racer is under 19). Draw taking place following race, 4pm, Nov 20th When: Saturday, November 20th | 1:30pm - 4:30pm

Audition Call - Carmina

Bowena, Bowen’s new vocal consort, is auditioning for basses and altos. We rehearse on Monday evenings 5:30 - 7pm at Collins Hall. If interested please call Nicole at 778926-4286 or email to ntzharmonium@mac.com

SKY members and those interested in joining SKY, may be interested in knowing we are walking together on Wednesday afternoons. For further information please contact 778-886-3600

MONTH OF OCTOBER

REGISTER AT: islandpacific.org Island Pacific School on Bowen Island, is a middle school and a not for profit organization. All donations over $25 qualify for a tax receipt.

Get our newsy newsletter emailed to you every Sunday Sign up for free to keep up with Bowen Island news and events – the things you may have missed and the things not to miss!

October StoryWalk® Bowen Island Public Library A free self-guided family activity! Read pages of a story as you stroll around the library grounds, use your imagination to complete the activities and search for the next page in the story. Find the first page outside the

front of the library. October’s book is At The Old Haunted House by Helen Ketteman.

OCT. 22  NOV. 9

Standing on Their Shoulders Hearth Gallery The purpose of the show is to share in the conversation of how and why we make art. Artists exhibit their pieces along with an Inspiration Board designed to inspire others to create.

Bowen Nature Club Mushroom Walk 10 am - 1 pm Free to annual members, requires pre-registration. Register: bowennatureclub@ gmail.com. More info: bit. ly/3Gk9WOi

Legion drive-through dinner Legion Start time 4:30 pm Meat & veggie lasanga, salad and yummy dessert

SATURDAY OCT. 30

Julio Ávila & his Cuban Band

Pumpkin lighting party Bowen Island Integrated Health 5-6 pm

SUNDAY NOV. 7

THURSDAY OCT.28

Paint It Forward - In the Style of Lawren Harris Zoom 9:30 - 11:30 am New artists and those that want to refresh skills are welcome. Register: marieneys.com

FRIDAY OCT. 29

Cates Hill Chapel 7 pm “Julio’s ensemble presents a fresh and lively approach to Cuban music, with a repertoire that seamlessly interweaves classic and contemporary arrangements.” $35 Adults / $27 Students & Seniors / $22 Children 14 and younger.

More info: shorturl.at/coEQX

MONDAY NOV. 8

Regular council meeting 6:15 pm Zoom

WEDNESDAY NOV. 10

Hearth Talk: Ramblings of a Committed Traveller The Hearth Gallery 7 pm Kami Kanetsuka presents

Join Our Board

We need your skills, interest and commitment to the Arts on Bowen The Hearth

Contact details

As Bowen’s arts council, The Hearth supports all forms of artistic expression by Bowen or visiting professional artists, aspiring youth and community groups either at The Hearth Gallery’s beautiful, purpose-built space in the Cove Commons in Snug Cove or elsewhere on the island. When the new Community Centre is built, The Hearth will also be supporting artistic use of the performance space.

If you are enthusiastic about supporting the arts on Bowen and interested in fulfilling a role on the Board, we would love to hear from you. Please express your interest in an email to hr@thehearthartsonbowen.ca including your contact details.

The Board - who we are looking for

Or visit us on our website at https://thehearthartsonbowen.ca/board-application A Board member will follow up your expression of interest for an informal discussion.

Please send your email by Sunday November 7th 2021.

The Board wants to increase both its numbers and the diversity of backgrounds, skills and experience of Board members. As an equity-seeking organization, The Hearth is committed to upholding the values of diversity, equality and inclusion and welcomes interest in joining the Board from any residents, both long standing and newcomer and particularly those with diverse backgrounds.

bowenislandundercurrent.com/account/mailinglist

An artistic background is welcomed however it is not a prerequisite. One of our guiding principles is ‘We are all artists here’.

Snug Cove on Bowen Island thehearth.ca