Bowen Island Undercurrent

FEATURED ARTISTS IN THE COMMUNITY PAGES 10 & 15

$1.50

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GST

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2024

OUR WILD COAST

VOL. 50 NO. 04

BIUndercurrent

BowUndercurrent www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

Nature Refuge Update PAGE 13

Grafton Lake now on-leash area for dogs ALEX KURIAL Editor

PROUD SNOW FAMILY Quinntin Bernstein (middle) poses with his sharp looking snow couple up in Hood Point. Bowen received its biggest snowfall of the new year last week, and Island residents took full advantage of the opportunity to make some Winter memories. For lots more photos from folks around the island, check out our photo gallery on Pages 16-17. / Erin Una Olson photo

this Winter

...LOVE YOUR WALLS

All dogs will need to be on leashes around Grafton Lake and any trail in the Art Rennison Nature Park going forward.

Concerns were raised by the public in recent months about the behaviour of off-leash dogs at the island’s mid-island lake. These included conflicts between dogs and other trail users, and dogs disrupting sensitive wildlife at Grafton Lake including ground-nesting birds.

“There is scientific evidence to support the negative impacts that dogs can have on wildlife and on water quality as well, and some evidence to support that those impacts can be reduced by keeping dogs on-leash,” said manager of environment and parks planning Carla Skuce during the Jan. 22 council meeting.

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BOWEN BUILDING CENTRE Helping islanders since 1972 1013 Grafton Road • 604-947-9622 Open Monday to Friday 8am - 5 pm Closed Saturday & Sunday

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Friday, January 26, 2024

A2 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Apply to be a volunteer Firefighter or First Responder

Artist Call

Bowen Island’s volunteer Fire Rescue service is accepting applications for volunteer firefighters and first responders.

Events All Council meetings are open to the public to attend in person or electronically, unless noted otherwise.

February 12, 2024 1:00 pm Regular Council Meeting

Art for safety markings for glass areas at the Community Centre

BIM’s Public Art Advisory Committee is calling for a digital design to Applicants may apply to be volunteer first responders only. Volunteer be applied to glass areas at the Community Centre. The design will be reproduced in adhesive vinyl to be applied directly to glass panels in firefighters are expected to undergo both firefighter and first order to meet safety requirements for visability. responder training.

This opportunity is suitable for artists who have experience in producing artworks in a professional capacity, who are from Bowen Island, and who are available to meet the project timeline.

Applicants must: • be 19 years of age or older • live on Bowen Island • have a valid BC driver’s license • be willing to undergo a criminal background check • be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination status Becoming a volunteer firefighter or volunteer first responder takes time, effort and dedication. However, the benefits of saving lives and making Bowen Island a safer place is worth every minute and every ounce of effort. Please review the information below to learn about becoming a volunteer firefighter or volunteer first responder. Apply if you want to dedicate your time, skills, and physical ability to helping your community. www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/apply-fire-fighter/

This commission is for new work. Up to two (2) artwork/designs will be selected. Each selected artwork/design will be awarded an artist fee of $750.00. All production expenses and installation of the selected artwork/design will be covered by others and are not the responsibility of the artist.

Each artist is allowed to submit up to two (2) artwork/designs in digital format (PC compatible TIF, JPG or PDF, maximum file size of 2MB each).

Each artwork/design must: be contained within a single four-inch circle format (to be repeated in a line across the window sections); be a single solid colour to suit the die-cut graphic process; have no elements being less than 1/8” wide to allow for proper cutting procedures. Exact colour options will be limited to supplier availability.

The deadline for submissions is Sunday, February 11, 2024.

Questions? Email PublicArt@bimbc.ca

Short Term Rental Accommodation

For more information and instructions on how to submit go to:

Tell us your views. Take the survey.

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/artist-call-for-digital-art/

We are considering changes to how we regulate short-term rentals on Bowen Island. In particular, Council is considering whether or not to adopt new Provincial regulations which would limit short-term rentals to a host’s principal residence or secondary residence on the same property.

Business Licence Renewals

For more information, and to compete an online survey to share your views, please visit: www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/rga

All business licence payments are due by January 31, 2024.

Questions? Please contact Pauline Hamalainen, Business Licence Inspector, by email at businesslicence@bimbc.ca or by phone at 604-947-4255 ext. 287.

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/business-licence-renewal/

Contact Bowen Island Municipality PAID ADVERTISEMENT January 26, 2024

Phone: 604-947-4255 Bowen Island Municipal Hall Fax: 604-947-0193 981 Artisan Lane Email: bim@bimbc.ca Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 Website: 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

Friday, January 26, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A3

Revised Public Notice of Intent BIM has re-issued the Notice of Intent to include clarifying information about the Cove Bay Water Treatment Plant and the likely reduction of parcel taxes depending on properties wishing to connect to the system. This provides assurance to the Eagle Cliff Local Service Area that the project is contingent on the completion of the Cove Bay Water Treatment Plant. This revised Notice replaces the January 19, 2024 Notice. Please refer instead to this Notice, dated January 25, 2024.

Revised Public Notice of Intent: To borrow funds to finance the Eagle Cliff Cove Bay Connection Project, subject to petition against This is a public notice under sections 213 and 217 of the Community Charter. Bowen Island Municipality intends to install a new watermain to connect the Eagle Cliff Water System to the Cove Bay Water System, ensuring a reliable and quality supply of drinking water to Eagle Cliff households. This project is contingent upon the Cove Bay Water Treatment Plant being completed and in operation.

We intend to borrow up to $820,000 from the Municipal Finance Authority with a five (5) year maximum repayment term to fund this capital improvement. The loan would be repaid in full by means of a local service tax. If your property is within the Eagle Cliff local service area (outlined in blue), you will be subject to a local service tax of approximately $1,600 per year, for the next five years (2024-2028).

The parcel tax per household will likely be lower, however, as there is interest from several properties along the watermain path who want to connect to the system. Any connection monies received from these property owners to join will be applied against the outstanding Eagle Cliff debt, minimizing debt payments.

Council may proceed with establishing this service unless more than half of the landowners representing at least 50% of the assessed value of the land and improvements (buildings) that would be subject to the local service tax, petition against the service by March 4, 2024.

A petition against is a voting system based on objection. If you are in favour, no action is necessary. If you disagree with this proposal, you need to “petition against” it by submitting a Petition Against Response Form.

You can get more information about Loan Authorization (Cove Bay and Eagle Cliff Water Systems Connection) Bylaw No. 565, 2022, the financing plan and the Eagle Cliff Cove Bay Connection Project on the Municipal website www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/eagle-cliff-cove-bay-connection-project/, or at Municipal Hall, 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island.

How to respond to this notice If you own property within the local service area and you are IN FAVOUR of the financing plan for this project, no action is necessary.

If you are NOT IN FAVOUR, you may petition against this financing plan:

1. Confirm that your property is within the local service area 2. Complete a Petition Against Response Form 3. Submit the form to the Corporate Officer by 4:00 pm on March 4, 2024 In person or by mail to Municipal Hall, 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N1G2, by e-mail to bim@bimbc.ca or by fax to 604-947-0193.

This notice has been mailed directly to all properties in the Eagle Cliff local service area, and publicly posted as of January 25, 2024.

Questions? Please contact the Corporate Officer at 604-947-4255 or bim@bimbc.ca.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT January 26, 2024

A4 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, January 26, 2024

VIEWPOINTS EDITORIAL

Island Wide Fun

Thanks to everyone who submitted stories for making the first Island-wide issue of 2024 a big success! We’ve got a lot of great pieces this week which dive into the world of arts, nature, statistics, and of course, snow! We had wonderful feedback to our online snow photo callout - thanks everybody! It’s always a treat to see this beautiful island through the eyes of the many people who call Bowen home. (Including Marie Neys, whose photo you can see below.)

Our next issue will come out in February, and there are already some fun events planned for next month. You’ll find a few of them in the calendar on the back page, but also throughout the paper if you have an attentive eye. So read closely to make sure you catch all the happenings around town. See you next week!

- Alex Kurial, Editor

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 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.

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EDITOR Alex Kurial editor@bowenisland undercurrent.com

ADVERTISING Tracey Wait ads@bowenisland undercurrent.com

CARTOONIST Ron Woodall

PUBLISHER Matt Blair publisher@bowenisland undercurrent.com 2011 CCNA

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2011

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

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

Friday, January 26, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A5

VIEWPOINTS

The Joys of Ferry travel

BC Ferries!!!!

Oh how we love to hate them - yes the overloads, the delays, even the cancelled ones, the trials and tribulations of island commuting.

However our reality is that we live on an island and our lovely ferry is our primary link to the mainland, unless you have your own boat. But wait, the joys and sorrows of our daily travels; yes we have all known that sweet moment when we are the last car to get on, when that happens for some reason I always feel like getting out of my car and hugging the crew (not sure how the crew would appreciate that).

Alas, we have also experienced that sinking feeling when we are in the car that does

not make the cut and that is a totally different feeling. Perchance when unable to board here on Bowen, a delicious coffee can be enjoyed at a couple of wonderful coffee houses in the Cove, a delightful quick walk through the woods until the next ferry or an opportunity to meet up with friends also in the lineup which brings me to the next plus of catching a ferry.

Whilst on the ferry, who hasn’t had breakfast in the car? (Guilty) Put their makeup on, listened to music, caught up with phone calls, emails/texts/Facebook, knitted half a blanket, crocheted a scarf, even indulged in a cat nap, read a good book, done Wordle/crossword, even painted their nails. Imagine sunbathing on the

I’m heartened to see that Council will consider the option for Bowen to optin to Short Term Rentals policy under Provincial legislation.

It strikes me that Bowen’s close proximity to the immense Metro Vancouver population poses outsized impact on local housing. A quick survey of Metro Vancouver real estate listings quickly highlights why Bowen is an attractive housing market for investors looking to purchase real estate for income producing ventures.

To a mainlander, Bowen real estate prices are a bargain.

However, in a small community like Bowen, every home removed from the market for speculation and/or commercial short-term rental business is one less potential home for a resident. My primary concern is about Bowen continuing to condone the practice of exploiting housing as a legitimate business enterprise through non-principal residence STR’s.

As documented by McGill University researchers this practice negatively impacts local housing access. (https:// upgo.lab.mcgill.ca/publication/strshousing-bc-2023-summer/Wachsmuth_

BC_2023_08_10.pdf ) I believe that our community will remain healthier and more vibrant if we make room for families and singles to live and work on Bowen by maximizing housing availability whether through rentals or home ownership.

I am totally onboard with Bed & Breakfast operators who are living in their principal residence and providing visitor accommodation. These hosts provide welcome local context for visitors while offsetting their costs of homeownership. Conversely, unsupervised STR’s can, and often do, disrupt the culture and peaceful enjoyment of formerly cohesive neighbourhoods that are endemic to small communities.

I believe that the Provincial monitoring and enforcement provided for in the legislation will contribute considerable benefit to the municipality and taxpayers. “Opting in” shows great potential to create a win-win for Bowen Island.

Best Regards, - Betty Morton

Reader hopes for change to Bowen short-term rental rules

*See our January 12 issue for more info on Provincial Bill 35 re: BC Short-Term Rentals

upper deck in the summer, or just to sit and enjoy the stunning views that attract tourists from around the world to travel to BC so capturing the beauty of our wonderful province.

Additionally catching up with friends, writing “to do” lists - often long ones can easily take the whole 20 minute crossing to complete - or planned the menus for the week. When all else fails, go have a hot dog and enjoy the view. You may be lucky enough to have a humpback accompany you as experienced last summer.

Soooooo yes we can moan and I must

admit I have had my moments but if the ferries are a huge negative for you then you wouldn’t have moved to Bowen. As we leave the mainland to head home what a treat to sit and look forward to reaching our quiet jewel, tucked quietly away from the madness of the North Shore and the city, so worth all the challenges.

So thank you BC ferries and their crew, out in all weathers doing a really good job, three cheers for them and best wishes for 2024 to you all.

- Diana Kaile

A6 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, January 26, 2024

VIEWPOINTS Snug Cove Sewer Crisis As a concerned stakeholder in the Snug Cove community, I believe it is imperative to highlight aspects of the sewer treatment crisis that has seemingly escaped official acknowledgment by the Bowen Island Municipality (BIM) and public attention.

This situation calls for more than a technical fix; it demands a reflective, responsible approach. The responsibility for financial and environmental stewardship of our community lies not only with the municipality, its employees and councillors, but with each one of us that live, work or use the facilities and businesses in Snug Cove.

Union Steamship Company (USSC) and its boaters were critical in identifying the severity of the sewer issue. Last winter USSC reported strong sewage smells throughout the marina, BIM would like to “theorize” these are coming from boats and wildlife, but the marina has never experienced these smells since the Sewer Plant was installed in 1999. I question why the issue surrounding sewage in Snug Cove would be from USSC; espe-

cially when recognizing USSC’s diligent and committed work in minimizing any environmental impact of the marina and its users.

USSC has a sewage pump-out specifically for boats. We strongly suggest all boaters have holding tanks and some boats are required to have holding tanks. Wildlife, AKA the Canada Goose, we are unable to control. While geese contribute to pollution of water in Snug Cove, they do not produce the smell of sewage and are not present in the winter months when smells were first reported.

In April 2023 and multiple times in the summer, USSC reported bubbling water near the Municipal Dock. BIM reported back that they had divers untangling the sewage outflow pipe, but never disclosed they had cut it off due to damage in August 2023. The lack of disclosure by BIM in relation to the cut-off sewer out-flow pipe is not only alarming and indicative of a larger systemic problem they have failed to promptly address.

The gap between these discoveries and the official acknowledgment in the January 8 Council Meeting is not just a communication failure but a serious lapse in judgment on BIM’s part.

The environmental and health risks posed during this period of inaction and that are still happening today are deeply concerning.

Within Snug Cove and in the marina, we regularly see salmon fry and herring balls, which are sensitive to pollution in water. The sight of children wading, people swimming and dogs playing in waters contaminated with effluent is distressing. The long-standing sign on the beach, warning of high E. coli levels, attributed to marina boats and wildlife, is both a glaring oversight and factually incorrect considering this crisis.

The financial aspect of this crisis is perplexing and warrants a closer examination of the sewer plant’s history. From my understanding, the Treatment Plant, constructed in 1999, saw its capacity doubled around 2010. This expansion was to accommodate the future development of surplus lands owned by BIM. This fact reveals the problem isn’t solely due to an increase in existing users of Snug Cove Local Service Area (LSA) but is also due to a lack of proper planning in relation to the expansion of the Snug Cove Treatment Plant.

The decision to double the plant’s size without upgrading the related outflow pipe infrastructure, is a significant failure and

suggests substandard planning and execution with inadequate accommodation of development goals set by BIM. In 2022, the Sewer Plant upgrades included engineer’s reports stating the outflow pipe of 75 mm diameter was inadequate for the volume and that a 200 mm diameter pipe was required to meet demand. A 250mm pipe would be needed for any future increase in demand, an increase in pipe volume capacity of over 1,100%.

BIM’s expectations of homeowners and businesses in the Local Service Area are unrealistic. We as a community are already paying for upgrades to the Sewer Plant approved in 2022. Snug Cove businesses serve the entire community and will be left with little choice other than to pass these costs onto customers, trim costs (such as employment), or risk making their businesses unviable. This begs the question of whether there is Provincial or Federal aid for emergencies such as this. It is not just a matter of financing infrastructure; it’s about sustaining the economic and social fabric of Snug Cove.

The need for a more equitable solution — one that acknowledges and compensates for the disproportionate impact on local businesses and residents - is not just important; it’s essential for the vitality of our community.

- Oydis Peterson Union Steamship Marina

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Friday, January 26, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A7

FRAZER B. ELLIOTT Personal Real Estate Corporation

Bowen’s Top Producing REALTOR® for 2021 & 2022* *based on reported MLS sales

604.910.3401

felliottbowen@gmail.com | bowenhomes.ca

Specializing in BOWEN ISLAND and HOWE SOUND

2020-2022

Top 10% of Realtors in the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver

D L SO

1743 BOWEN BAY ROAD - List: $1,849,000

620 LAURA ROAD

$3,600,000

1530 DOUGLAS ROAD

Completely one-of-a-kind, this living museum sits on five acres and is home to one of the largest apple collections in North America – with over 900 individual species on site, and over 1,100 apple trees in total.

Also home to award-winning Riley’s Cidery, a Bowen staple (business assets included in sale).

1130 LENORA ROAD

$1,398,000

Built on a flat and sunny 0.84 ac. lot, this custom home features a gorgeous chef’s kitchen, DR/LR opening out onto a partly-covered patio, and three bedrooms – including primary – above, with a 4th bedroom/office on the main floor. Recently landscaped, with plenty of room for sunny veggie gardens.

1616 WHITESAILS DRIVE

This classic character home sits on a wide, slice-of-pie-shaped 0.31 acre lot on the Lenora Loop in Deep Bay. This is one of Lenora’s rare larger properties – flat and usable, with a fully-fenced and well-established garden of mature fruit- and specimen trees. Inside is 4-5 bedrooms – including a guest suite below.

272 JASON ROAD

$889,000 This 0.67 acre waterfront property is perched above Scarborough Beach - a popular island swimming location - with stunning views across Howe Sound to the North Shore Mountains and Sea To Sky country. Untouched for decades, and now waiting for your dream home design. Survey available.

$1,850,000

$1,650,000 This gorgeous Tunstall Bay home is set back from the road, and has an open-plan main floor that leads out to an idyllic entertaining deckwith stunning, panoramic views of Pasley Island and the Salish Sea beyond. Log posts flank the sides and add a unique feature to the home.

LOT 1 HAYES ROAD

$600,000 Welcome to Hayes Road – the latest offering at Arbutus Ridge on Bowen Island. This 0.58 acre property features an easy build site with nearby trails, viewpoints, the Westside Playground, and beach access within walking distance at King Edward Bay or Bowen Bay.

A8 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, January 26, 2024

Bowen Island RCMP Stats - December

Art Rennison Park on-leash

BOWEN ISLAND RCMP

“For Grafton Lake it seemed like a pretty obvious area that would benefit from those protections (dogs on-leash) given that it’s drinking water and there are wetlands and riparian areas that are sensitive to disturbance. They provide really important wildlife habitat, and the proximity of the trails to those areas is quite close,” said Skuce.

Both the Environment and Climate Action Committee and Parks, Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee expressed their desire for the Grafton Lake trails, and the entire Art Rennison Nature Park (which will eventually be 230 acres and includes all of Grafton Lake and its trails) to become an on-leash area. Council agreed, voting unanimously to establish the lands as an on-leash area.

The new rules will be enforced via the Use of Public Spaces Bylaw section about observing signs. Once signs are posted around the lake – in this case informing people of the

Bowen Island responded to 57 calls for service in the month of December: Abandoned 911 We responded to four 911 calls that turned out to be a non-emergency.

Domestic Disputes Police investigated a domestic dispute. The parties were separated for the night. No criminal charges were laid.

Fraud 1 fraud investigation.

Check Wellbeing - 4 well-being checks. In 3 instances the people were found to be okay. In 1 instance the person was found in distress and was assisted by paramedics.

- 1 OnStar vehicle activation.

Driver located, was safe, and confirmed false alarm.

Missing Person 3 missing person investigations. All three of the missing were found safe.

Animal Calls

- Report of an off-leash dog growling at pedestrians.

- Report of an off-leash dog that bit someone at Killarney Lake.

- Report of an off-leash dog that was struck by a car.

Property Lost and Found 2 reports of lost property (driver’s licence, car keys).

1 report of a found driver’s licence; returned to owner (not the same one as above).

1 report of found ammunition in public; destroyed.

Traffic 1 report of a vehicle speeding.

1 expired insurance.

1 expired driver’s licence.

Unwanted guest at a residence Police attended and escorted a guest out of a residence who was refusing to leave.

Theft A report of theft from on the BC Ferry.

Mischief Mischief to BC Ferries public washrooms.

Mental Health 2 people reported to be in a mental health crisis. Both located and provided with support.

Suspicious activity - Report of a suspicious male knocking on a house door at 10 pm. The male needed first aid for a cut to hand. Paramedics treated the injury.

- Report of a suspicious vehicle related to a Break and Enter that was posted on Facebook. The vehicle and the driver were located and deemed not to be associated to any criminal activity. The Facebook post was later deemed a false allegation. The RCMP learned about it from a Facebook user that attended the police station to inquire about the post. If you suspect that a crime is in progress, please call police directly.

- Report of a fire on Passage Island.

Firearms Act - Turned in firearm and ammo for destruction.

- Turned in firearms for temporary safekeeping.

Criminal Record Checks No criminal record applications were processed over the holiday season.

Liquor and Cannabis Licensing 7 liquor licences issued.

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Rides home will be available by donation at the end of the evening in the Margaritamobile. *Cash Bar Available

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MEXICAN VALENTINE’S DINNER CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S 2024 AT TUNSTALL BAY CLUBHOUSE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

OPAL Meet Opal, This sweet girl is new to Bowen and we are so excited to have her, Opal is starting a new adventure in her life and came to us for a check up. We are happy to have you here Opal!

ON SATURDAY 10TH FEBRUARY! MEXICAN DINNER, MARGARITAS AND MUSIC

BY THE HOWE SOUNDS (MATTHEW HARRISON & PETER PARKIN)!

Fun starts at 6 pm.

TICKETS AVAILABLE: SHOP.BOWENROTARY.COM AND AT PHOENIX BOOKS ON BOWEN ISLAND

REGULAR HOURS

Mon-Fri 9-5

CONTACT

Closed Sat & Sun

reception@bowenvet.com

604.947.9247

need to leash their dogs – there can be a $200 fine for anyone ignoring the bylaw by having an off-leash dog.

Grafton Lake will join Snug CoveandthemajorityofCrippen Park as Bowen’s on-leash areas for dogs. Other island parks are expected to be looked at on a case-by-case basis to determine if similar leash laws are necessary. Headwaters and Quarry Parks were recommended as two places where trails should remain off-leash given they have good accessibility and the makeup of the trails keep users out of sensitive areas.

“We do understand that many community members enjoy walking their dogs offleash, so we weren’t prepared to recommend that all nature parks be immediately switched to on-leash areas. I think that needs to be looked at closer with the parks and trails committee to make sure we’re providing equitable recreational opportunities across the island for people of different abilities,” said Skuce.

Friday, January 26, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A9

856 VALHALLA PLACE OFFERED AT $2,750,000

3,766 SF | 4 BED | 4 BATH | 2-CAR GARAGE | 1.05 AC OFFERING ONE OF THE BEST VIEWS ON BOWEN with stunning 180° vistas across the Queen Charlotte Channel to the North Shore mountains, West Vancouver, and the Vancouver skyline in front of majestic Mount Baker, the immaculately maintained home sits at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on a beautifully landscaped, very private lot. Intentional planning offers the ease of single level living on the main floor. French doors open on to a wrap-around flagstone deck from the living and dining room and primary ensuite bedroom, and the covered deck off the den makes for perfect entertaining even if the weather does not co-operate. Upstairs a second primary ensuite bedroom, 2 large bedrooms, a 4-peice bath, and large, bright flex space over the garage make it a perfect home for a family, or for those guests who will definitely want to stay for breakfast.

1116 FOXGLOVE LANE LOT ZONED FOR DUPLEX OFFERED AT $500,000 • Architectural & Structural Drawings • Ready for to submit for contractor pricing & permit application • Crippen Park and North Shore Mountain views • Unit 1 | 1081 sq.ft. | 2 Bed | 2 Bath • Covered Deck East | Garden Access West • Single Car Garage • Unit 2 | 1035 sq.ft. | 2 Bed | 2 Bath • Covered Deck East | Open Deck West • Single Car Garage

thoughtful, thorough, informed Working with Buyers

Working with Sellers

Going the Extra Mile

Tim has a unique combination of skills, knowledge and personality that made him the best Realtor for us on Bowen. He has an in-depth knowledge of the island, and is deeply connected and committed to the community. Throughout our search for a home he was patient, professional, keenly attuned to our needs, and often answered our questions before we asked them! He gained our trust immediately with his transparency, authenticity, and genuine caring.

Tim is a rare gem, and we would recommend him to anyone looking to buy or sell on Bowen.

Fiona Douglas-Crampton and Dan Arrigo D

Tim exceeded our expectations as a Realtor.

He went above and beyond to insure we had all the information required to confidently enter the selling market. His professionalism, expert knowledge and friendliness made it an enjoyable experience. Tim’s attention to detail in showcasing the listing was amazing as were the photographer and videographer he used. Our house sold within the first week at above asking. Thank you Tim for a job well done.

Ben Davenport

Tim sold our home on Bowen, achieving a record high price for an inland property, and helped us find a property to build on that addressed our very specific needs. We were impressed by his creativity and marketing skills as our sellers’ agent and by his knowledge of the land use bylaw and the local market as our buyers’ agent. He is amazingly responsive and addresses issues in an even-keeled manner with a little of his trademark humour. And Tim’s help doesn’t end wat closing – we’ve never had after-sale care like this. He does go the extra mile!

Rob and Maureen Mackey

RoB

RHODES ON BOWEN going that extra mile www.rhodesonbowen.com

Tim Rhodes REALTOR® tim@rhodesonbowen.com

604.341.9488

A10 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, January 26, 2024

Community Foundation’s New Featured Artist Bridges Art and Forest Ecology GREG GIBSON Bowen Island Community Foundation The Bowen Island Community Foundation is pleased to welcome Fae Logie as 2024–26 Featured Artist.

This program celebrates Bowen Island artists and aims to expand the audience for their work. Logie’s art practice frequently responds to ecological challenges. In a group of works on paper, The Bark Drawing Series, the artist renders in charcoal, graphite, or conté crayon close-up views of the distinctive bark of each major species of coniferous trees within our coastal temperate rainforest — Douglas fir, Western hemlock, Sitka spruce, and Western red cedar.

The drawings present mural-sized details of each of the massive trees and impart a bodily awareness on the part of the viewer — “to one’s own as well as to that of the other,” the artist says. Logie upends the resource-extractive connotations of “taking a section” of each tree in what is fundamentally a project about preserving our forests.

The artist worked for over a year to complete each meticulously rendered drawing.

She embraced slowness in her process, akin to the speed at which these giants grow, and engaged in deliberate, sustained looking at the trees not only to see but to better understand them — exemplifying the kind of per-

sistence that environmental conservation efforts demand.

Logie has generously provided permission for the Foundation to reproduce Bark Drawing IV, Western Red Cedar on its printed cards during her tenure as Featured Artist.

The Bowen Island Community Foundation wishes to highlight the significance of this species in our local history and culture.

Thuja plicata, Western red cedar, and in ’ the Skwxwú7mesh language xápayay—the gracefully drooping, shade-loving conifer with distinctive plaited leaves and fragrant heartwood — has been central to human and other-than-human existence in the coastal temperate rainforests along the British Columbia coast for millennia. Often referred to by another name, Arborvitae, it is literally the tree of life.

For Indigenous communities, the red cedar holds deep spiritual and practical significance, providing bark for woven mats, rope, and clothing; straight-grained, durable, and rot-resistant wood for carved canoes, totems, and house posts. Red cedar has long been a valuable commodity in the resource extraction industries that are central to the economic history of this region, and it is the provincial tree of British Columbia.

Chronic annual drought conditions, exacerbated by a changing climate, casts a shadow over the coastal rainforests as scientists predict permanent changes in the cedar’s

Waterfront

Bowen Island Community Foundation Featured Artist 2024–26 Fae Logie at work in her studio, December 2023. / Brian Houle photo range amid widespread die-off of the species, which thrives in shaded, damp, and nutrient-rich habitats.

Logie holds an MFA from the University of British Columbia, a BFA from University of Victoria, and a BSc from Simon Fraser University. Since the mid-1980s, she has maintained an active, cross-disciplinary practice at the intersection of art and science, exhibiting in solo and group shows locally, nationally, and internationally. Her research-based projects are often rooted in ecology and a concern for the environ-

1558 Mount Gardener Road

ment and involve thoughtful interrogations of place and history.

Logie’s art probes the intersection of identity and ecology, encompassing both wilderness and urban settings, and the relationships between humans and the natural world. Her work is characterized by a commitment to understanding the places we inhabit. To learn more about Fae Logie’s art practice, visit https://www.faelogie.com/ The Foundation looks forward to sharing more of Logie’s work with the community over the next two years.

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Friday, January 26, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A11

Bowen Rotary invites you to a Valentine’s fundraiser!

HILARY BUTLER Bowen Island Rotary Club The Rotary Club of Bowen Island is well known not only for inviting interesting speakers but also for supporting many projects in our own community and abroad.

Now we are trying a new gig – a Mexican Valentine’s evening on February 10 as a fundraiser for one of our favourite projects – Peka.

Matthew Harrison, a Rotarian and wellknown Bowen Islander, is spearheading the Peka project. We are raising funds for an orphanage in Lesotho, Africa, specifically for children 6-18 years old who have aged out of the foster care system and have no place to go.

Peka will offer shelter, safety and life skills to kids who would otherwise be forgotten. Our Bowen Island Rotary club has played a major role in raising funds which are almost doubled by Rotary International.

In our efforts to raise more funds for equipment, furniture and other Installations

so badly needed by Peka, the club has decided that a Valentine’s evening celebration with our friends and supporters would be a great idea. Carmen Dives, also a Rotary member, originally from Mexico, and many Bowen Rotary members are making this event a reality!

Matthew Harrison and Peter Parkin, The Howe Sounds, will be playing fun tunes while we eat a delicious Mexican-themed dinner (vegetarian option available) and enjoy margaritas, wine and other bebidas, first drink free with a cash bar after, and the evening goes from there!

This will be happening on Saturday, February 10. Doors open at 6 pm at the Tunstall Bay clubhouse, located at 1666 Tunstall Boulevard.

The Margarita Mobile will be available for a safe ride home – donations accepted.

All this for only $85 per person. Plus, the satisfaction of supporting a great cause! There will be a silent auction, so be prepared.

Please Invite your friends to join you in making this a fun evening.!

Tickets available online at shop.bowen rotary.com and Phoenix Books.

Cast members of Bard on the Rock’s upcoming presentation of Twelfth Night - including (clockwise from top left) revellers David Cameron, John Parker, Jackie Minns, & Jessie Perry - have been hard at work preparing for the Shakespeare play set to debut in late February at Cates Hill Chapel. / Frazer Elliott photo

ORDER

ONLINE branchonbowen.com

NOW OPEN FRI-TUE 11:30AM TO 6:15PM

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A12 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, January 26, 2024

Mid-year rally ends year with uptick in average prices TIM RHODES Contributor

The downward pressure on prices which began in 2022 continued until midyear when prices rallied to end 2023 with a year-over-year (YoY) Average Sale Price of Year of $1,575,195, down 2.1 per cent from December 2022. Activity metrics where all down: YoY Dollar Volume of sales and Number of Sales were down 42.5 and 41.3 per cent respectively, and the MLS® Home Price Index or Benchmark Price was down 9.1 per cent to $1,403,042.

The YoY Average Days on Market (number of days from listing to sale) was up 93.5 per cent to 60 days at year’s end (almost double 2022) while Inventory was up 18.5 per cent and New Listings were down 16.0

DOLLAR VOLUME - SALES

 42.5% 29.1%

YoY From Dec 31, 2022

YoY From Dec. 31, 2019

per cent, underscoring low sales numbers.

Sellers appear to be waiting for an indication that prices will move upward before listing while buyers are looking for downward movement. Real estate brokerage projections for 2024 suggest both will be disappointed. Sellers will only see prices edge up 2 to 3 per cent and buyers are unlikely to see significant downward pressure. The Bank of Canada rate held in January and there is guarded optimism that there will be downward pressure on rates, perhaps as early as Q2, 2024, which may encourage both sellers and buyers, The market enters 2024 anticipating relatively stable prices with some modest gains and continued slow sales activity.

Timothy Rhodes, REALTOR® tim@rhodesonbowen.com

NEW LISTINGS

16.0% 19.3%

YoY From Dec 31, 2022 YoY From Dec. 31, 2019

DAYS ON MARKET

MLS® HPI vs AVERAGE SALE vs MEDIAN SALE YoY at December 31

$2.00 M

YoY % Change

$1.75 M

-2.1 %

$1.50 M

. . .

$1.25 M

AVERAGE SALE MEDIAN SALE

$1.00 M

MLS® HPI COVID

$0.75 M

AVERAGE SALE PRICE

93.5%  2.1% 28.6% 55.2% YoY From Dec 31, 2022

YoY From Dec 31, 2022

YoY From Dec. 31, 2019

YoY From Dec. 31, 2019

Window Blinds

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+1.1% -9.1%

03.18 06.18 09.18 12.18 03.19 06.19 09.19 12.19 03.20 06.20 09.20 12.20 03.21 06.21 09.21 12.21 03.22 06.22 09.22 12.22 03.23 06.23 09.23 12.23

2023 YEAR END STATISTICS

NUMBER OF SALES

41.3% 17.8%

YoY From Dec 31, 2022 YoY From Dec. 31, 2019

MLS® HOME PRICE INDEX

 9.1% 49.3%

YoY From Dec 31, 2022 YoY From Dec. 31, 2019

Friday, January 26, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A13

What’s happening in the Wild Coast Nature Refuge?

Bowen Island Properties LP Since 1988, building communities where people love to live

SEYMOUR BAY

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Future Dock (Passenger Ferry to Vancouver)

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SEYMOUR BAY DRIVE Seymour Landing’s newest subdivision features 10 perfectly-situated building lots perched on the coastal bluffs above Seymour Bay. These sunny, southeast-facing lots offer incredible ocean and city views, and are perfect for creating level-entry, ease-of-living homes ideally suited for empty nesters.

LOT 2 3 5 7 8 9 10

SIZE 0.368 ac (1,490 m3) 0.309 ac (1,250 m3) 0.358 ac (1,450 m3) 0.341 ac (1,380 m3) 0.267 ac (1,080 m3) 0.197 ac (797 m3) 0.179 ac (725 m3)

LOT PRICES $1,225,000 + GST $955,000 + GST $955,000 + GST $955,000 + GST $955,000 + GST SOLD $885,000 + GST

Inquiries Cole Westersund

(Personal Real Estate Corporation) Cell: 604-360-0793 Email: cole@landquest.ca Website: www.landquest.com/realtors/cole-westersund

Mark Edmonds wears many hats in his work at the Wild Coast Nature Refuge. / Submitted photo

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It has been three years now since the Bowen Island Conservancy acquired 30 acres of land on the eastern slopes of Cape Roger Curtis. This lovely property includes a forest (previously logged but still containing many mature species of trees), open coastal bluffs, areas of seepage, and lowland water. There are incredible views from the shoreline.

First, we needed a name. There were many options, and we chose Wild Coast Nature Refuge, reflecting both its location and its value as a sanctuary for natural wildlife.

Since we knew it should have visitor access we wanted the name to invoke pride in its biodiversity.

For the first two years, we were in planning stages. A complete evaluation of the property was needed. A Technical Advisory Group (TAG) was formed, made up of local biologists, botanists and geologists. They explored the ecology of the land over many visits and meetings, reporting their findings to our Board. Another committee developed a management plan and hired Claudia Schaefer to complete a baseline study of the flora and fauna in the Refuge.

All this information helped us understand where to avoid damage to endangered species, making it easier to design trails and viewpoints for public access. We built trail outlines, had maps and other public notices designed, and aim to have viewpoint benches and interpretive signage soon.

Otherwise, nature is left free to flourish unharmed.

Much of the work has been done by Mark Edmonds, volunteer extraordinaire, who has spent hundreds of hours enhancing and marking trails, building fences where necessary, and clearing the land of invasive plants such as blackberry, broom and thistle. Also, 20 volunteers help to keep trails free of debris, watch for wildlife, chat to visitors and monitor the Refuge throughout the year.

It has been reassuring to learn that bikers and dog owners, with a few exceptions, understand the reasons for and adhere to our prohibit signs.

We are “building” our nature park carefully, observing and discovering changes in the landscape with each new season. Reforestation and planting of native plant species are planned for future preservation of our Refuge as a protected home for Bowen’s wild creatures.

COWA N DR POINT

ALLIE DRAKE Bowen Island Conservancy

January 2024.

This is not an offering for sale. Any such offering can only be made with the applicable disclosure statement. Prices & descriptions of real estate in this publication are subject to change without prior notice. E.&O.E.

HOME & LOT PACKAGES Prices from $1,725,000 to $2,250,000 + GST for a wide range of homes, e.g.: • 2-bed/2-bath, 1,300-sf rancher; • 3-bed+den, 2½ bath, 1,850-sf home; • 3-bed, 3½ bath, 2,500-sf home plus large rec. room.

Options for double-car garage or carport.

Trail

A14 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, January 26, 2024

Friday, January 26, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A15

New Year, New Featured Artists at Catching Stars Gallery!

KATHLEEN AINSCOUGH & EMILIE KAPLUN Catching Stars Gallery Tony Mainwaring is the featured artist in Catching Stars Cooperative Gallery for the month of January. His wood and resin creations inspired by the nature of forests and coastlines graces the gallery.

Not just gorgeous, but functional pieces that bring colour and the natural beauty of wood and stone. Two local families have already purchased benches for their homes. These beauties can also be custom made for your space.

Tony Mainwaring grew up in Crescent Beach and moved to Bowen in the early 1990s. After working in the tree business for around 40 years, Tony retired in 2021.

“I have always liked working with wood and creating unusual sculptures and tables,” says Mainwaring.

Tony lives at Mount Gardner with his partner Irene and has two very talented daughters, Chelsea and Katie, that also reside on Bowen Island and their work is represented in the gallery.

Our new Feature Artist opportunity attracts artists from near and far. February brings jewellery by Metis Artist Jake Freeman. Jake (Jacqueline) Freeman (she/her) is a proud Michif raised in the birthplace of the Métis Nation, Treaty 1 territory, now known as Winnipeg, Manitoba.

A Red River Métis Citizen, Jake draws inspiration from her rich cultural heritage and the natural beauty of her surroundings.

Having relocated to British Columbia in 2021 and having lived on Nexwlélexm for a time, she is now residing on unceded Syilx (Okanagan) territory. Jake’s artistic journey continues to evolve, influenced by the gorgeous BC landscapes and her homeland which she visits in the summer months.

Jake has family on Nexwlélexm and Skwxwú7mesh and visits the Coast as often as she can.

As a primarily self-taught contemporary Indigenous artist, Jake works with a diverse range of media, including,

beads, leather, caribou hair, paint, birchbark, quills, and metals, creating unique pieces that reflect her connection to nature and Michif culture. Her art is a testament to her continuous exploration and appreciation for various artistic forms.

This exciting Feature Artist opportunity is available to Artists to apply to showcase their work for one month at the Gallery on our Feature Wall. Feature Artists receive a larger percentage of their art sales and will receive extra marketing and promotions of their work. It is a great opportunity to showcase and sell more of their art, have an event related to the show and introduce new collections to our clientele.

At Catching Stars Gallery, LOVE-inspired pieces by a selection of our collective’s artists brighten the entry. January is traditionally quieter in the gallery and on the island in general but visitors who have braved the winter weather to be amongst the creations of over 50 artists now in the gallery, have been rewarded with a joyful and uplifting experience that will carry us through until Spring arrives! Many have purchased very special pieces for themselves and their loved ones, and we’ve been busy with shipping artworks across the world!

Our little island has become a very popular place to celebrate special occasions and we offer gifts of art and collectibles for weddings and anniversaries, births and birthdays, new homes, welcome and goodbye gifts - there is something for every occasion. And for those who prefer to choose for themselves, a gift certificate is a perfect option.

Artists can apply for a Featured Artist session by contacting us through the website submissions page or email info@catchingstarsgallery.com. Dates will be determined at the time of the application. Interested in finding out more about becoming a Catching Stars Artist? We would love to hear from you.

Check out the website at www.catchingstarsgallery.com or email us, Emilie and Kathleen, with your questions and to set up an appointment at info@catchingstarsgallery.com

The Orchard Recovery Center is currently looking for a full time Sous Chef to provide our clients and staff with exceptional, quality food.

Our wages are competitive, and our benefits package include dental, eyecare, and the use of our private gym.

January’s featured artist Tony Mainwaring with fellow artistic daughters Chelsea and Katie (above).

Jake (Jacqueline) Freeman of the Métis Nation (below) is the gallery’s upcoming featured artist in February. / Submitted photos

New Things

always arriving Say Happy Valentines with Something Special this year

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

9:15-6:00 Please contact kim@orchardrecovery.com

HOME & GARDEN Artisan Square | 574 Artisan Lane e: hello@toshdecor.ca t: 236-357-2777

A16 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, January 26, 2024

SNOW MUCH FUN Islanders certainly made the most of last week’s snowfall, taking part in a range of fun winter activities in the great outdoors. Thank you to everyone who submitted photos!

Lara Luckham built her first Snowman, Brothers Ethan & Pokane Harrison crafting it off the title character from stayed safe and warm from the conthe classic British Christmas film, The ditions in a well-constructed snow Snowman. / Luckham Family photo fort. / Michelle Harrison photo

After a thorough snow shovelling session, Katy Girard celebrated the achievement Quebec-style by relaxing around the fire.

Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH www.biuc.ca | 1122 Miller Road

FOOD BANK

Sunday Worship 10:30 am Rev. Lorraine Ashdown

DROP-OFF

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OFFICE HOURS WEDNESDAY 10-4 OR BY APPOINTMENT

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

Contact Angela Powell 604-947-2515

CATES HILL CHAPEL

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

Sunday Worship 10:00 Rev. Phil Adkins SHIRAT HAYAM (Song of the Sea) BOWEN’S JEWISH COMMUNITY Shabbat Gatherings ~ Holidays Contact aryana.rayne@gmail.com • www.shirathayam.ca

The conditions did little to slow down Viking Brad (Macdonald) and Viking Gusti. (Kelly Miller photo, left) Nothing was going to stop Duy Son either as he helped keep the ferry dock clear of snow. (Daxton Curry photo, right)

Snowtime was for the pups too, with Dora the Border Collie keeping entertained with her buoy (Carolyn McDonald photo, left) and Bindi the Australian Cattle Dog alertly surveying the scenes. (Leslie Fenn photo, right)

Queen of Capilano Ferry Schedule

NEW SCHEDULE IN EFFECT - JANUARY 8 - MARCH 2024 BCFERRIES.COM DEPART BOWEN ISLAND DEPART HORSESHOE BAY 5:20 am Mon (except Mon Feb 19) Tue - Fri. 5:50 am Mon - Sun Water Taxi Service Only: Saturday 6:50 am Mon - Sun 6:20 am Mon - Sun 8:00 am Mon - Sun FULL BERTH CLOSURES 7:30 am Mon - Sun 9:05 am Thu Fri Sat, Sun, Mon, Tue WILL TAKE PLACE ON THE 8:35 am Mon - Sun 9:05 am Weds: Dangerous goods FOLLOWING DATES: 9:40 am Mon - Sun only No passengers.

• Saturday, February 3 10:50 am Mon - Sun 10:15 am Mon - Sun and Sunday, February 4 (full 12:00 pm Mon - Sun 11:25 am Mon - Sun days) 1:10 pm Mon - Sun 12:35 pm Mon - Sun • Saturday, March 9 (full day) 2:55 pm Mon - Sun 2:20 pm Mon - Sun 4:00 pm Water taxi service will be 3:30 pm Mon - Sun Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon, Tue provided during berth 4:35 pm Mon - Sun 4:00 pm Weds: closures and will follow the 5:45 pm Mon - Sun Dangerous goods only regular sailing schedule.

6:50 pm Mon - Sun No passengers.

No vehicle traffic is available 8:20 pm Mon - Sun 5:10 pm Mon - Sun on these dates.

9:30 pm Mon, Fri, Satt 6:15 pm Mon - Sun Water Taxi Service Only: 7:40 pm Mon - Sun Tues. Wed. Thurs. and Sunday 8:55 pm Mon - Sun 10:30 pm Mon. Water Taxi Service 10:00 pm Mon, Fri, Sat Water Taxi Service Only: Only: Tuesday thru Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday and Sunday except Feb 2, & Mar 8 it’s the ferr 11:00 pm Mon. Water Taxi Service Only: Tues. thru

Sunday except Feb 2, & Mar 8 it’s the ferry!

Friday, January 26, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A17

Tobin Sparling took on an ambitious project sculpting a snow eagle. The finished product proved well worth the effort. (Submitted photo, left) And Ellie & Niklas were all smiles while taking to the outdoors as the snowflakes fell. (Lauren Cotter photo, right)

The weather was a big source of fun for the Charter Family, (L-R) Roatan, Tim, Lane, & Brandee behind the camera. Their dog Copper also ended up turning into quite the snowball during the day.

Eva Kepesova joined her hard-working buddy for a flop in the snow (Submitted photo, above), while Saskia Tait and daughter Annika Rabi brought out the cross-country gear to go for a ski around the neighbourhood. (Submitted photo, right)

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Friday, January 26, 2024

A18 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Your Community

MARKETPLACE

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

604-362-0586 • 604-653-7851 classifieds@van.net

bowenislandundercurrent.com

BC WIDE CLASSIFIEDS

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Buy, Sell, Find, Promote, Celebrate.

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Health and Wellness on Bowen DR. GLORIA CHAO FAMILY DENTIST

FRIDAY 10-4:30 PM AT ARTISAN SQUARE

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To advertise here please call the Undercurrent at 604-947-2442 or email ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com

$12 per week

Friday, January 26, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A19

JEFF GORDON

BOWEN BOW WEN HOME SERVICES

Painter / Wood Staining & Finishing

J. GORDON PAINTING LTD. Painter

llove ove tthe he llife ife yyou ou live

COURIER SERVICE

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NEW CONSTRUCTION RENOVATIONS RESTORATION ADDITIONS SECONDARY STRUCTURES UNIQUE OUTDOOR SPACES SUB CONTRACT WORK

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

BOWEN TOWING Local towing and recovery, battery boosting, unlock vehicles, tire change…….

Andy Rainsley: 604-947-0674 • CELL 778-231-7283 Bowenshirelandscaping.ca • info@bowenshirelandscaping.ca

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A20 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

CALENDAR

To January 28 Family Literacy Week at the Library Come do our Critter Scavenger Hunt and Family Activity Bingo all week, and join us for a Family Party on Saturday, January 27, from 12:30 to 1:30 pm in the Annex. Find out more at bipl.ca/flw Saturday, January 27 SKY Mahjong No charge for ages 55+, all skill levels welcome with Elinor available to coach new players. 1 pm. For more details or to reserve a seat at the game table: info@skyonbowenisland.ca Monday, January 29 SKY Morning Events at Bowen Court Stretch & Strength, age 55+ exercises runs from 9 to 9:45

Friday, January 26, 2024 am. Then from 10:30 am to Noon is SKY Speaker Series for 55+ featuring Vicky Fredericksen sharing the “Benefits of Shiatsu”. 1070 Miller Road.

Monday, January 29 Rotary Speaker Series Our guest speaker is Sue Ellen Fast, Bowen Island Councillor & Municipal Trustee for the Islands Trust.

Topics to be explored: Ongoing membership in The Islands Trust, Freshwater Strategy and Sustainability, Biodiversity, Conserving the special character of this rural island, and then wherever the discussion of the assembly takes us. The doors open about 7 pm and the meeting starts at 7:30. We plan to conclude by 9 pm. Hosted by Artisan Eats Café at 539 Artisan Lane, free to attend and everyone welcome.

Wednesday, January 31 & Friday, February 2 SKY Walks Meet at Quarry Park at 10:30 am to walk Headwaters Park.

Applications due February 15th before 5pm

Good idea?

That’s granted.

The Bowen Island Community Foundation supports projects that improve our community.

We need two things from you (in addition to your great idea): a 500 word proposal and that you be partnered with (or just be) a charitable organization.

The detailed application package is available on the Foundation’s home page: bowenfoundation.com.

If you’re looking for ideas, the 2023 Vital Conversations report outlines opportunities for improvement on Bowen Island.

Email your proposal to grants@bowenfoundation.com.

community grows here

Thursday, February 1 SKY Sit/Stand Yoga Join Karolina at Bowen Court for Sit/Stand Yoga, ages 55+ from 10 to 11 am.

Saturday, February 3 Meditation with Laura A free, monthly sitting group, Saturday at 10 am at Bowen Court. Guided meditation for 40 minutes, followed by 20 minutes of discussion for those who wish to stay. All levels welcome. Laura Quilici has been practicing mindfulness meditation for over 20 years and currently serves as Board Chair of the BC Insight Meditation Society. For more information email Laura at lauq@shaw.ca TUESDAYS Chair Yoga with Jackie Join Jackie from 1 to 2 pm at Collins Hall for a gentle approach to stretch, breath, alignment, balance, and relaxation. Sliding scale $15-20, drop-in or pay for the month in advance. Email jackie.minns@gmail.com for more info.

Pizza at the Legion Brought to you by Melanie and Bowen Island Pizza Co. Come enjoy pizza from 5 to 7 pm. Guests & kids welcome!

WEDNESDAYS Storytime at the Library A free, drop-in program of stories and songs for 2-4 year-olds and their caregivers! From 10:30 to 11 am. Starts January 17, runs to March 13. bipl.ca/storytime Study Club at the Library A free one-hour drop-in program of quiet study time for high school students. At the Library from 4 to 5 pm. Runs to February 8. bipl.ca/studyclub Bowen Bridge 1:30 to 4:30 pm at Bowen Court. Fee $5 per person per session. Your place must be arranged by email no later than 6 pm on Monday. To make your booking or to seek more information, please email bowcates04@gmail.com Meditation Evenings Every Wednesday night from 7 to 8 pm. Please contact John at 604-506-7197 for more details.

THURSDAYS Babytime at the Library A free, half-hour drop-in program of songs, books, and rhymes for babies 0-18 months and their caregivers! Starts at 11:30 am. Join us afterwards, at 12 pm, for a casual baby & caregiver social hour in the Annex. bipl.ca/babytime FRIDAYS Legion Dinners Dinners held every Friday except for long weekends. $13 for members and $15 for non-members. Doors open at 5:30 pm, with dinner at 6:30 pm. Tickets available for Legion members on Thursdays (purchase at Legion) and at the doors on Friday if tickets remaining.

SATURDAYS Bowen Runs Clinics Hey there Bowen Runners! It’s happening all over again!

The Bowen Runs clinic will start meeting again this Saturday for a 12-week training clinic. The clinic is geared towards 10 km distance. As always we are offering multiple levels in the program (10k LTR, 10k, and 10k+) Each level designed to provide an adequate base of training to successfully complete a 10k fun run - or just to maintain a nice base of fitness to maybe set yourself up for a spring half marathon (?!?). The 12-week 10k LTR, 10k, and 10k+ program concludes with the Sun Run. Sign up with Bowen Rec. See you Saturday!

SUNDAYS Open Mic Night at Doc’s Come down to Doc Morgan’s and show off your musical talents! All instruments & singing styles welcome. 5 to 8 pm.