IT TAKES A VILLAGE After 25 years in business, the Village Baker and its owners & operators Neil and Helen Reynolds prepare for one final bake on March 17. St. Patrick’s Day will cap a remarkable twoand-a-half decade run for the pair and their bakery, while also marking the beginning of a new chapter for the well known and beloved couple. Read along for more on this island institution. / Alex Kurial photo
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Westside Village decision deferred
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Council has deferred any further consideration of the Westside Village development until the Official Community Plan review is complete.
The housing project on Westside Road was originally submitted to council in October for rezoning. At the time the proposal was seeking permission for 34 modular homes to make up a tiny home village on the 10-acre lot. It was referred to several municipal committees for feedback.
On Monday council heard the results of the feedback along with a pair of recent amendments from the applicant, Cameron Rolfe. One of these addressed the total percentage of the property which would be exempt from future development - originally this was around 20 per cent but Rolfe said the municipal desire for 50 per cent could be obtained. The amended plan also requested 19 homes to start, down from 34, while adding there would be an ask for the other 15 homes after those were complete.
Housing development decision paused pending OCP review
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The Advisory Planning Commission (APC) expressed their desire to defer any decisions on the project until the Official Community Plan (OCP) review is complete (expected sometime this year), along with the Grafton Lake Watershed Management Plan. The Parks, Environment and Climate Action Advisory Committee (PECAAC) prepared several suggestions aimed at protecting riparian and streamside areas, advocating for a trail connection between Westside and Adams Roads (dependant upon another rezoning application in process regarding the bordering property to the south) and ensuring that the Conservation Development Policy’s condition of protecting half of a property from future development be observed.
Regarding affordable housing, Bowen Island Resilient Community Housing (BIRCH) said if the development goes ahead as planned a minimum of 15 per cent of the housing should be made available at non-market rates, in this case around six units (based on the desired future total of 34 homes). However they also recommended the project be limited to 12 units overall, representing what they call “pocket neighbourhood developments”.
Much like October, properties in the area were largely united in opposition to the development. In addition to individual letters, a neighbourhood letter consisting of 22 names representing 10 properties (six on Westside Road) expressed
opposition to any rezoning, or at least deferral until the OCP review is complete. Some of these residents spoke to the matter in public comments during the council meeting, as did Rolfe in support of his project. Rolfe’s October submission also featured dozens of support letters for Westside Village from community members around the island.
As council debated the topic on Monday, a preference to defer any decision on Westside Village until the OCP was updated emerged as a consistent sentiment. Without this review, mayor Andrew Leonard said he didn’t believe the project met the current OCP parameters.
“In terms of community and the way we’ve defined neighbourhoods at the community level, the proposal that sits in front of me is so far outside of the existing zoning in terms of density - and based on the letters that we have from neighbours inside 500-metres isn’t supported by the neighbourhood generally - it makes it difficult to say that this rezoning would be in alignment with the character of the community and in alignment with what the neighbours in the community want. And I don’t have any contemporary way to look at it under the new OCP yet,” said the mayor.
Leonard added he had concerns over technical questions regarding water and sewer service for the project, particularly given the property’s proximity to Grafton Lake. The mayor suggested that in addition to waiting for the OCP review, the Grafton Lake Watershed Management Plan also be completed before moving forward.
Xwalacktun Squamish Nation Master Carver
PAULINE LE BEL
Contributor
In the February 13 issue of the Undercurrent, I shared the news of a Squamish Welcome Figure coming soon to the island the latest Knowing Our Place happening In the February 27 issue, I wrote about our search to find the perfect log. Today I am happy to announce we have the carver.
I first met Xwalacktun in 2006 at the unveiling of his monumental steel and brick sculpture, “Spirit of the Mountain,” at Ambleside Park in West Vancouver. I was captivated by the story and the message of the artwork. Xwalacktun explained how the metal design “echoes the Lions Gate Bridge, and the canoe with two upright paddles signifies
West Vancouver and Squamish Nation pulling together in peace, sharing mutual respect. The brick foundation represents a medicinal garden to symbolize wealth, growth and healing.”
All of Xwalacktun’s art whether in wood, paper, metal, stone, jewelry or glass tells a story. His 16-foot cut aluminum tube, at the entrance to the Audain Gallery in Whistler, tells the Squamish story of the Great Flood. When Michael Audain commissioned the piece, Xwalacktun told him the gallery was located on a floodplain, and this would inspire the story he would tell.
As the waters rose, the Squamish people made a barge out of their canoes, tying them together with planks from their longhouses and attaching it to Ch’kay, now known as Mount Garibaldi. “We survived,” he says, “because the Eagle dropped salmon into their canoes.”
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Coun. Sue Ellen Fast also spoke of her preference for the new OCP to guide the process. “This is the long-running vision for the island… how the community wants to see the island continue into the future.”
“I think we need to think about the water and I think we need to think about the diversity of neighbourhoods, especially their rural character… This is one of the neighbourhoods that is special to Bowen and I think it’s way far beyond to put a village into this neighbourhood,” said Fast.
The desire to wait wasn’t unanimous though, with some councillors eager to pursue a new housing model which included affordable homes. “Our strategic plan says we’re going to try and get more affordable housing and this is one of the absolute concrete efforts to do so. I think we need to be cognizant of that,” said Coun. John Saunders.
Saunders also cautioned about the appearance of council passing off decisions as the clock runs out on their term. “We’re seven months away from an election and months away from a new OCP, it feels to me like we’re starting to just defer things and wait to see what comes next in terms of policy or OCP… I don’t know how effective we can be if we keep putting things off.”
In the end a vote to defer any decision until the OCP review is complete narrowly passed 4-3, with Saunders, Coun. Alison Morse and Coun. Alex Jurgensen in opposition.
Xwalacktun touching up his carving at Vancouver General Hospital / Submitted photo
Village Baker owners embark on well derserved retirement
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Neil and Helen Reynolds came to Bowen from England in 2000, where Helen was a scientist and Neil a bakery manager with Sainsbury’s. Despite the bakery connection, it wasn’t their plan to enter into the business here. That is until a chance conversation with Basia and Paul Lieske, who mentioned that Wolfgang Duntz was looking for someone to run a bakery in the rapidly growing Village Square.
While he didn’t have a location, Wolfgang did have a name for the enterprisethe Village Baker. (Neil was unable to convince him to go with his own first choice - Fine Buns). The location came before long though, as Wolfgang offered up his office for the bakery. It remained in the same place ever since, a safe haven on the very outskirts of Village Square.
“We thought it would just be takeout. But no, Bowen people like to sit down and gossip,” recalls Helen.
As a result the business plan shifted significantly
and quickly, from fast-food takeout to a sit-down focus. The inner layout changed as well to accommodate this dine-in experience - in many instances this meant smashing down walls to create an open interior flow. Another major upgrade came in 2008 with the addition of the ‘Conservatory’, a popular place to tuck yourself away, especially on a cold day.
Residents took to the new social hub and to this day a loyal gathering can be found at the Village Baker every day, usually engaging in the aforementioned gossip about topics around the island.
The morning and lunchtime rushes see another loyal group of customers blow in and out the door - island contractors looking to fuel up (often with a Village Egger) on their way to work or during lunchwhile Fridays are for the yoga crowd post-workout.
All of these groups and more make up the diverse cast of characters who’ve passed through the Dorman Road doors hundreds of times over the years.
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VIEWPOINTS
Letter: Community support surges for Bowen thespians
MEGAN NOSEK
Board Chair / Tir-na-nOg Theatre School
We are ecstatic to have achieved our fundraising target in support of Jack and Julie Headley of Tir-na-nOg Theatre School. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to, supported, or shared our GoFundMe campaign.
More than 300 people have made donations of all shapes and sizes. The generosity has come not only from Tir-na-nOg alumni and families, but also from members of the wider Bowen Island community who recognize the incredible contribution Jack and Julie have made to the lives of our children and to the strength of our community. The outpouring of support has been truly breathtaking.
We would also like to extend special thanks to several Bowen Island businesses and community supporters who have gone above and beyond:
- Scarlett Duntz and Daron Jennings at Bowen Island Properties
- Chris and Mary Leigh at Leigh Auto
- Kevin Manning and his team at First Credit Union
- Artisan Eats and the Snug Cafe
- Cat and Chris Bell at Bellwater, who
generously donate water treatment services to Tir-na-nOg each year
- Anna Donnelly, who raises nearly $5,000 annually through cookie sales at the Bowen Building Centre
The funds raised will allow the Board to eliminate the building mortgage, repay a portion of the personal loan provided by Jack and Julie, and lay the groundwork for the next generation of Tir-na-nOg.
The Board is excited about the future and is actively working toward a transition that will ensure Bowen Island continues to have a place where young people can experience the unique and intensive learning environment that Tir-na-nOg provides. Through theatre arts, students develop not only creativity and confidence, but empathy, collaboration, and a deeper sense of humanity.
If anyone missed the opportunity to donate to the GoFundMe campaign but would still like to support Tir-na-nOg, donations can still be made directly through CanadaHelps on their website by searching ‘Tir-na-nOg Theatre School Society’ .
Thank you again for supporting the legacy of this remarkable Bowen Island institution. We look forward to connecting with the community in the coming months and sharing more about our Fall programs.
‘Bowen’s Own’Art Show at the Hearth
GALLERY SEEKS NEW LOCAL ARTISTS
THE HEARTH GALLERY
Are you a Bowen Island artist ready to showcase your work in a professional gallery setting?
The Hearth Gallery is launching ‘Bowen’s Own’ , a three-week community exhibition running May 13 to June 1, 2026, celebrating the incredible creative talent on Bowen Island.
This show is designed to support local artists who may not have had the opportunity to exhibit (and sell) their work in a purpose-built gallery. You might be emerging You might have
Judi Gedye March Open House
JUDITH GEDYE
Bowen Island Municipality Councillor
A relatively large group showed up but there were no hot topics. We enjoyed a general discussion about the number of development proposals that seem to be surfacing – Cowan Point, Westside, Laura Road rezoning, Tomo Spaces, Seymour Bay, Grafton Lake, were all mentioned. One person commented that it was curious that any new proposals were coming forward when existing ones were taking extra time with major policy revisions underway. How does council deal with them all? A: one at a time!
Our planners would be the first in the Municipality to hear about anyone’s ideas and they would start work with proponents to explain and understand any limitations that might exist in the Official Community Plan (OCP) zoning and the Land Use Bylaw relevant to the specific piece of land.
Our OCP has not been updated for many years and starting and completing that work was one of the commitments of this council.
A hard-working local steering committee and a consultant group have been meeting for about a year now, and a first draft is coming soon, but the current working draft needs considerable editing. In addition, the over-arching Policy Statement of the Islands Trust is also being revised Ideally, that process will be completed also before the end of this term and a new council is elected, but feedback on the first draft has been considerable. Proposals that get tabled in the midst of such policy work are feeling the effects
change, does an earlier allowance that has not yet been built need to conform to new policy requirements, such as our 50 per cent dedicated to nature conservancy. It will depend on the most recent request – if it is triggering a change to the original agreement, yes it would need to comply.
It was noted that increased density is the over-riding concern on all the Gulf Islands. Understanding the capacity limitations of an island is one evidence-based way to control density. One suggestion was for council to adopt LEED principles: a building code system that has been adapted to neighbourhoods and communities I‘ve heard of the system but had never worked with it - we’ve been sent some research and can explore as follow-up
just one or two finished pieces. You might feel a little unsure about exhibiting. That’s okay supporting Bowen artists is what Hearth Arts on Bowen is all about.
This show is open to Bowen Island artists of all genres visual art, sculpture, literary works, and more, artists who have not been represented at the Hearth in the past five years.
Interested? Simply email curator@ thehearthartsonbowen.ca to express your interest. We will reply with next steps and submission details
Come be part of the Hearth Gallery and let us showcase you in our beautiful space
Once staff have enough information they writeareportoutliningtheproposalandallits potential points of contact with the relevant policy documents, and present that report to council at a regular council meeting with suggestions on how to proceed. Frequently, council will refer the matter to one or more advisory committees: the Advisory Planning Committee, the Parks, Environment & Climate Action Advisory Committee and the Accessibility Committee.
Community volunteers with an interest in and/or expertise in those areas give council feedback on what are likely to be community concerns, if any, about the proposal. They often have a site visit with the proponent to walk the site and see any areas of concern. We are a small municipality and organizing all the committee meetings, staff reports, council agendas and site visits can take some time, with or without controversy. One question was about, when policies
The idea of “guardrails” to protect nature were described as fundamental when proponents can suggest anything and council is required to review all proposals – an OCP provides “guardrails” specific to each island. The OCP Steering Committee has been divided up into working groups to focus in depth on topic areas. We have some good research and analysis to work with One of Trust Council’s quarterly meetings happens this week in Duncan. The Policy Statement and budget are the main topics The budget for every taxing authority is complicated and difficult Wanting to lead and govern effectively while maintaining affordability is a tight balance The province rejected a Five Year plan from the Islands Trust Conservancy, indicating a need for more meaningful consultation with First Nations, plus Reconciliation is a major focus for Trust Council, but also the most controversial material in the proposed Trust Policy statement.
Using Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICE-T) as one model, the Trust budget is proposing to hire a junior position to build community contacts and understand local concerns with First Nations Governing Bodies and a senior advisor to develop activities and organize groups of elders and leaders who can help find ways to transition to some form of shared governance over land use planning in the Trust area There will be considerable discussion at Trust Council. One person raised the issue of watershed protection as a consideration in every development proposal. This is a recent addition to many of the reviews recommended by council. The Grafton Lake Management Plan, which is about to start, will provide very helpful information.
VIEWPOINTS
AStory of Hope in Howe Sound
LOUISE LOIK
Contributor
Amidstmountains with snowypeaks rising from thesea, whereislands fade into hazyshadesofgreen, and sunsets blazetangerine and pink,weoften fail to look up fromour laptops.It’sonlywhen the whales,dolphinsorporpoises burstintoview that we arejarredintoastate of heightened awarenessofthatstunningworld of Howe Sound. We know this beautiful worldwill stillbethere tomorrow andso, we arefreetolookaway.
Butwhat we maybetaking forgranted isthe effort and commitment of so many individuals that make Howe Sound what it is todayand the lossestheyare helpingtoreverse orprevent. In plain sight is CypressMountain, where an area almosttwice the size of Stanley Park is nowprotected as aparkbyWestVancouver with help fromBC Parks Foundation and donors.
With morethan32,000 hectares protected itisone of the largestprotected areasin theworld closetoa majorcity centre. It took 50 yearsofcommitment, butpiecebypiece, WestVancouver is nowprotectingover 41 percentofits land asparkland.
In Squamish,herring areback to spawnlargelydue to the initiativeofanindividual who motivated groupsand governmenttotakeaction to ensureachance of survival of the herring eggs.Similarly,the hard work andcommitment oflike-mindedpeople achieved thedauntingtaskof removingthe artificial Squamish Spit andthe adjacentlog dump whichimpeded or blockedsalmon movementand decimateda food chain.
Nowwith the spit removed,the salmon and eagles are returningand nativeplantsand wetlands around the shore are beingrestored.The listofhow people aremaking adifference for the better around the region is aweinspiring, frombig projects to small.Peopleare replantingeelgrass meadows,gainingprotection for glasssponges,planting for pollinators, removinginvasivespecies,and saving the Cape
We live in a place that is aweinspiring, butthatalsoneeds help. Fortunately, there arepeoplecommittedtocaring for this place.Recentlythosepeoplegathered at theHowe SoundConservation Network to sharesuccessstories.As part of alarge Bowencontingent,Bob Turner and Owen Plowman, representing theBowen Island Conservancy, shared their insights as conservationists as well as the successstory in acquiringecologically importantland for conservation at theCape.
With 46 groups and manyindividuals present, Turner spoketoalarge audience as part of an inter-generational panel. He reflected on howthe worldhas changedsincehe wasfirst inspired to protectthis area 35 yearsago and what drives him to continue his efforts
“Backthen,HoweSound was hurting. Decades of industrialpollution hadbadlydamaged it…given all theproblems, thereweresomanyopportunitiestohelp.Itreminds me of theDavid and Goliathstory.David could have looked atGoliath and thought, he’s so big, howcan Iwin? Maybe instead he thought, ‘He’ssobig,how canImiss?’ That’s the advantage of toughtimes;thereare so manyopportunities to help,you just can’t miss.”
Coincidentally,the night beforeheadingtothe conference, I’djustfinishedlistening to author RobinWall
Places of Worship WelcomeYou
BOWEN ISLANDUNITED CHURCH
Does Bowenhavecapacity?
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Therewas some briefdiscussion aboutproposedchanges to the affordable housingpartofthe Grafton Lake projectand referrals to BI ResilientCommunityHousing (BIRCH) group. Even with “cheap”land, which BIRCHhas to itsadvantage,building “affordable” is stillverydifficult. BIRCHhas ahousing survey onlinenow that allare encouraged to respondtofor general information abouthousing on Bowen.
Onesolution is to upgrade existing buildings– it is far more affordablethat building new. Thequestionishow to incentivizesuchwork. Onepersonasked if an older houseonalot could“stratify” and sell offapartial interest Again, it wouldbeanissue of capacityofthe lotand the neighbourhoodcharacter.
We kept circlingaround the issueofcapacity–what is our“breaking point” and what do we do oncewereach that point? Therecannot be endless growth -wehaveamoat andwedonot have infinite resources.Whenand howdowe pull up the draw-bridge and what does that mean forpeoplealready here or wantingtomovehere? Thedilemna has been mentionedfor yearswithnoaction or solutions.In100 years, what will we look like?
Ourfinal item wasthe “Caringfor Nature”group effort. They have endorsedaBiodiversity Plan that givesussome greatinformationonspeciesonBowen and their habitats. That plan will be comingtocouncil sometime laterthis monthand is well worthconsiderableattention.
Next meetingwillbeatCollins Hall on Saturday, April4at 3pm. Everyone welcome.
Kimmerer: “The Land LovesYou Back,” and “Braiding Sweetgrass.” Shetells audiences abouta student who told herthatinspiteofliving on the edge of climatecatastrophe andthe ageofthe sixthextinction: “this is the best time to be alive.”
5:15 am except Sundays 6:15 am except 7:30 am except 8:45 am 10:00am 11:15am 12:35 pm 1:55 pm 3:15 pm 4:40 pm -exceptWednesdays 6:00 pm 7:15 pm 8:25 pm -exceptSaturdays 9:30 pm 10:30pm 11:30pm
DEPART HORSESHOEBAY 5:45 am except 6:50 am except 8:05 am 9:20 am -exceptWednesdays 10:35 am 11:55 am 1:10 pm 2:35 pm 3:55 pm 5:20 pm 6:35 pm 7:50 pm 8:55 pm -exceptSaturdays 10:00pm 11:00pm
Where’s theferry rightnow?- live updates at www.bowenferry.ca Schedule changeson statutoryholidays. Stay up to date at www.bcferries.com
Village Baker says Goodbye
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The bakery soon became enshrined as a Bowen staple, surpassing one decade and building upon its success as it neared a second. But like many businesses, particularly those in the food and beverage industry, the pandemic delivered challenges nobody could have predicted.
“We honestly thought we’d lose the business… It was very close,” says Neil. The bakery closed for three months and returned with an emphasis on ‘family-owned’ The Reynolds, their two daughters, and long-time employee Tess (who the Reynolds say is considered family) were the only employees for a stretch of time as they attempted a comeback amidst an uncertain and dangerous landscape.
The roots and relationships they’d forged were the difference “Within about two months people were coming back and thanking us for reopening and being here… That was awe inspiring,” says Neil. The community flocked back to their favourite stop, ensuring the Village Baker’s survival.
Still, as was the case for many people and businesses, the experience had taken its toll. While they were alive, the pandemic had rendered a financial blow to the bakery. In the years which followed Neil and Helen each experienced their own medical challenges, which further put life into perspective A heart attack in particular which Neil suffered led to many conversations about the future. “That was an eye opener… We’ve got to rethink our lives now, I don’t think I can keep going at this kind of pace,” he says looking back on the incident.
Ultimately a decision was made to sell the beloved business. Efforts by the couple began in earnest last year, and by
the end of 2025 a buyer was secured, one the Reynolds are confident will honour the legacy of the bakery.
As for where to go next, family played a big role as both Reynolds daughters are currently living in eastern Canada, in Halifax and Montreal. Nova Scotia was chosen as a landing spot (final destination to be determined) - a path many Islanders have chosen in the past few years.
There are still a few days left for people to drop in and say hi before the final coffee is poured, the final bowl of Helen’s homemade soup served, and perhaps the final expletive hurled by Neil at a loyal customer (“Eventually people understand that if I’m swearing at them I usually love them,” Neil explains of his often colourful welcomes to Village regulars).
But on Tuesday, March 17 at 2 pm the doors will close a final time on this piece of Bowen history. Helen expresses that Neil is in denial over this inevitability, but even he admits it’s dawning on him. “I’m just going to cry,” he says of his plans for the last day.
“It’s really a community hub. When things go pearshaped, people come in here for comfort with each other. Lots of tears, and lots of hugs,” says Helen on what will stick with her from the past 25 years. For that’s how the Village Baker will be remembered, a place of comfort, happiness, community, and of course always ready with warm food and drink.
In a 2011 Undercurrent article, Lorraine Ashdown wrote “With their recipe of consistency and simplicity, it is quite conceivable the Village Baker will rise to the occasion of another successful 10 years.” They’ve done that and so much more, and will be deeply missed on Bowen Island. We wish Neil and Helen all the best of luck, and thank you for the many years of wonderful memories
Welcome Figure carver a master at his craft
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Xwalacktun is a descendant of Squamish and Kwakwaka’wakw ancestry. Born and raised in Squamish, he now lives in Xwemelchstn village in West Vancouver. At the beginning, he was self-taught, guided by his father and older brother. Later, he attended Emily Carr and Capilano Colleges He began by copying the Northern style with its ovoids, u-shapes and circles. Then he discovered the beauty of Salish art with its crescents and wedges, carving the negative space rather than the positive, carving deep into the wood, bringing out the imagery without the use of paint.
And as he carves, “I listen to the wood come off like music.” He calls his works message keepers. “Every piece has a message to help us move forward, to live together, to uplift each other. We’re all in this canoe,” he says. “We need to learn how to pull together.”
Born Rick Harry, he proudly and conscientiously carries the name Xwalacktun, given to him in ceremony. “I need to carry that name in the best way. Many ancestors carried that name before me. I’m being watched,” he says with a chuckle and his usual warm smile. He is best known for his remarkable wood carvings that blend the traditional and the contemporary, creating
a link to storytellers of the past, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. He has also influenced thousands of young artists as mentor and guide. Xwalacktun’s art can be found worldwide, and especially in BC: carved cedar house posts for a millionaire home (which won two Gold Georgie Awards in 2002); house posts for St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church; doors for elementary schools, secondary schools, universities and colleges; the 20-foot tall Squamish overpass spanning the Sea to Sky Highway; a red cedar memorial pole for Transport Canada; the Senior’s Olympic torch design; carved doors for BC Hydro’s Burnaby and Vancouver locations; cedar double doors for Harrison Hot Springs; and the Welcome Figure at Whistler’s Peak to Peak.
Did I mention the totem poles? In Scotland! Xwalacktun loves telling the story about a man who came to one of his many carving workshops. “I love teaching and inspiring others,” he says. “The man asked if I could come to Scotland and teach people how to make a totem pole. So I did.”
Over a span of 12 years. The Scots are thrilled with their 34 totem poles, which stand as symbols of friendship between Europe and Cananda. His works can be found on moun-
taintops, in museums, galleries, and even a fire truck. In a tangible act of reconciliation, the West Vancouver Fire and Rescue Service asked Xwalacktun to create art for their new fire truck. The truck now conveys a story of peace and healing through Salish art. He has been commissioned by galleries in New York, New Hampshire a 45 foot totem pole for the Kokopelli Gallery and many galleries in B.C.
“I love collaborating with people on a commission,” he says, “because they are the ones who are going to help give it life.” His numerous accolades include the Order of BC in 2012, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, and an Honorary Doctorate from Emily Carr University.
Xwalacktun has come to the island on many occasions, including a Knowing Our Place event in 2017, when I invited him to be part of “Building Bridges Through Art.” He has been building these bridges of healing, respect, and giving back to the community for over 40 years.
“In the Salish culture, art was our written language,” he says. “It was used to tell our stories, to offer healing.” Knowing Our Place is delighted to commission Xwalacktun to carve our Welcome Figure with its important messages of healing and pulling together in this canoe.
Finding a Balance
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She tells how her student “invoked Wile E. Coyote cartoons… Where there’s all the chaos and Coyote’s chasing Roadrunner and it always ends at a cliff. And there’s a little board on that cliff And it’s tippy And whoever it is, is going to plunge into the abyss… that’s where we are. We’re standing on that tippy board on the cliff.”
The author asks her student why then is this “the best possible time to be alive?” The student answers “because when everything is in the balance, it matters where I stand… I have the gift of living in a time of purpose. I have the gift of knowing that every choice I make matters.”
To;Bowen Island Municipality, Mayorand Council.
In this region, Turner continues to help tip the balance He advises “you find your joy in that intersection where you find your purpose and place Howe Sound has been a good news story for a decade The joy from this work is my juice Joy is a fuel. Find your joy.”
The naturalist concluded that when he started out there was still positivity in the world. Now, not so much ”I have a quote at the bottom of my email and it’s still my bedrock,” said Turner, paraphrasing, “Don’t pin your hope on how the world is doing around you but rather, pin your hope on your own knowledge that you can make a difference.”
Coming home on the ferry that night I looked around Howe Sound and thought of the multitude of individuals and groups that help care for this beautiful place It was impossible not to feel both gratitude and joy.
Paidadvertisement
The BowenIslandMunicipal Councilismostlycomprised of peopleinmyage group. Consequently,weare almost all homeowners.Thisalsotends to be trueofthe Committees that advisethiscouncil.
Thatmeans that almost everyone advising or making decisionsonHousingAffordabilityonBowen Island is out of touch with thefearand paniccausedbybeing underhoused or precariously housed.
Ourabilitytoown homesisn't duetoour superior work ethicorcareful financialstrategies. It's simply becauseofwhen we were born
Housingaffordabilityisn't likeaskate park or swimming pool,a communityamenity that wouldbe"nice to have". It is a foundational principleofcommunity.Without it we arefailing! It is necessary in order to make ourcommunity whole.
Asenior on Bowenmentioned recently that when he andhis wife movedhere, in the70'sI think, they boughta waterfrontproperty andbuilt ahome. They still live theretoday, they raised theirkidsinthathome, andnow they havegrandchildrenwho live on Bowen. They were bothschoolteacherswhentheymovedhere, they'reretired now.
If that couplewantedtomovetoBowen Island today, with twoschool teachers incomes, they couldn't afford Bowen's most modest starterhomewhich is nearly $1 million,never mind buildingahomeonthe waterfront
It's been said many timesthatBowen Island needsmorebelow market housing, most everyone agrees.Sowhat'sthe holdup? Whywoulda Councilnot approveevery belowmarkethousingproposal that crosses theirdesk?
Ina recent BIRCHhousingpole97% of respondentslisted"housingaffordability"astheir biggestconcern.And respondentsfromall household income levels expressedconcern forBowen's housingaffordability andavailability
Our proposal forWestside Village hasalready,orwill at therequiredtime, prove; Compliancewithall environmental standards, registration of an approved,engineered wastewater treatment system,proof of availability of both quantityand qualityofdomesticwater supply (without negatively impactingsurrounding watersystems)
Our neighbors have raised concerns,mostof whichare addressed above,but some remain;there couldbe more cars on thestreet andmoreactivityinthe neighborhood.
It's interestingtonote, that theway ourdevelopmentisplanned,nopartof ourdevelopment is visiblefromany of our neighborshomes
We'reaskingcouncil to weighthe benefitstomanyversusthe drawbackstoa few. Westside Village canprovide real, genuine,stableand predictable housingaffordability. What wouldthe cost be to ourneighbors? Therewould be afew morecarsonthe road anda fewmorepeople walkingupand down thestreet
It seemsthatwhatour communitycouldgainishuge.And what ourneighborsmight lose is small.
It's beenexplainedtome that this Council, in this term (which ends in Octoberof this year)has enough time to make a decisiononthe Westside Village applicationiftheychoose to do so.Or, if they choosenot to,itwouldbeeasyfor them to delaya decision,slowdownthe process, andleave that decisionfor afutureCouncil.
Howmanyfamilieswouldour communityloseduringthat delay?How much hardship wouldbeendured? Why?
BowenIslandMayor andCouncil, Westside Village needstobemoved aheadfor firstreading, please. TheBowen Island communitywants this,but most importantly theBowen Island communityneeds this
Respectfully,
CameronRolfe Westside Village,Bowen Island, BC
Sweet Smell at the movies
FILM SCREENING AT THE COMMUNITY CENTRE NEXT TUESDAY
BOWEN ISLAND FILM SOCIETY
Bowen Island Film Society’s ‘The Vault’ invites you to a March 17 presentation of Sweet Smell of Success (1957) the sharpest slice of Broadway bravado ever cut onto celluloid. Set in the Bowen Theatre in the Community Centre, with doors open at 6 pm and the picture starting at 6:30. This isn’t your garden-variety motion picture. No sir. This is the kind of film that walks into a room wearing a silk tie and a dangerous smile.
In this sizzling tale of power, gossip, and ambition, fast-talking press agent Sidney Falco (Tony Curtis) hustles for the favour of the mighty columnist J.J. Hunsecker (Burt Lancaster), a man whose words can make a star shine or snuff a career out like a cigarette in a crystal ashtray.
In the words of Roger Ebert:
“The movie is uncanny in its ability to capture that time and place, just before the Beats introduced the modern anti-conventional style. Jazz musicians wear suits and ties, hair is cropped short, and the trick is to always appear cool – a trick Hunsecker has developed into an act.”
“The streets outside are filled with anonymous people, all in a hurry to get somewhere, and when Falco walks with them he becomes part of the crowd. When Hunsecker walks, his limousine follows him. For pedestrians like Falco, he is the key to getting off the sidewalk and into the booth at ‘21’.”
The Energy of Spring with Nat Tuke
SEASON-THEMED EXHIBITRUNS TILL MARCH30
JAMI SCHEFFER
TheHearthGallery
Eachspring, the coastalmountains awaken with aquiet surgeof energy as forests,rivers, and wildlife emerge from winter
Opening this month at the Hearth GalleryonBowen Island,Nat Tuke’s solo exhibition Spring Vibrations runs from March11to30. Theexhibition features anew series of spring-inspired acrylic paintings that capturethe season’svitality and transformation.
Through vibrantcolour and expressive movement, thepaintingsinviteviewerstopause within thefleetingmomentofseasonal change.Forests burstwith fresh foliage, bear cubs exploretheir surroundings with curiosity, flowers bloom beneathsnow-cappedpeaks,
andrushingriverscarve through the landscape. Together,the worksreflectthe energy andrenewal that define the arrivalofspring.
Theseries is inspired by Tuke’s experienceslivingand exploring in the coastal mountains of Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), where shehas the honourofresidingand creating. Time spentobservingthe rhythms of the naturalworld continuestoshape herwork, inviting viewers to reconnect with the vitalityofthe landscapesthat surround us
Thepublic is invited to celebratethe exhibition at an artist pARTy on Saturday,March 14 from 6to8 pm at the Hearth Gallery. Lightrefreshments will be provided, with drinksavailable from the bar.
Theexhibition runs from March11 to March30atthe Hearth Galleryon Bowen Island.
To renew or subscribepleaseemail us at subscribe@bowenislandundercurrent.com
This week we’re featuringone of ournewest patients, Wilco, acuriouspup who’sbeen busy settling into lifeonBowen Island.Heloves exploring local beachesand lake trails. When he’s notout adventuring, he goes silly forsalmon skin and liver snacks—and has aspecial interest in socks, dryer lint, and sticks. He’salways excited to meet new friends, both four-and two-legged, so if yousee him outand about, be sure to stop and say hi!
Thepublic is invited to celebratethe Spring Vibrations exhibition at an artist pARTy with NatTuke on Saturday, March14from6to8pmatthe Hearth Gallery.
Call or email to place your ad, Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm 236-889-6595 ahogan@glaciermedia.ca 236-889-6595 ahogan@lodestarmedia.ca
604-653-7851
Call or email to place your ad, Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm 604-362-0586 •604-653-7851 classifieds@van.net
604-653-7851 nmather@glaciermedia.ca
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Friday, March 13
Stories-on-the-Go at Baby Connections
Library staff are guest speakers at Baby Connections! Drop in to Bowen Island Family Place for a short baby storytime and Q&A during Baby Connections. Chat with a librarian and learn some fun stories & songs! From 11 am to Noon. For expecting & new parents, and their babies 0-12 months
Saturday, March 14
Artist Party at the Hearth Gallery
Nat Tuke, artist in attendance, will be at the Hearth for an Artist pARTy to celebrate the Spring Vibrations Art Show. Party from 6 to 8 pm, with exhibit running March 11 to 30
Sunday, March 15
Barbie at the Bowen Theatre
Join Bowen Rec for a fun, high energy screening of the hit 2023 film Barbie. Costumes encouraged! Snacks & drinks welcome Doors 10:30 am with movie at 11. Children under 10 must be with adult, tickets details on Bowen rec website.
Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20
Film Makers & Spring Breakers with Bowen Rec
Campers will steph behind (and in front of!) the camera to create their very own mockumentary film celebrating Bowen Island. At the Community Centre Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm Register online with Bowen Rec.
Tuesday, March 17 & Tuesday, March 24
Foundry at the Health Centre
Clinician Shannon Roberts is taking appointments for youth age 12-24 to talk about any issues regarding mental health or substance use. Parents or caregivers of a youth in that age range can sign up too. Email healthservices@ bowenhealthcentre.com or call 604-947-9986 to sign up
Tuesday, March 17
Movie Night at the Bowen Theatre
“The Sweet Smell of Success” is this week’s movie, presented by Bowen Island Film Society and Bowen Recreation. Film starts at 6:30 pm, more info on Page 8.
Tuesday, March 17
Carmina Pub Night at the Legion
Choir members of Carmina Bowena are hosting an evening of Irish songs and tunes Members of both the choir and Sola Musica will be performing, as well as leading plenty of fun sing-a-long songs for the audience. All ages welcome! Food (Rock Salt Kitchen) and drink will be available for purchase. Starts 7 pm, tickets $10 at door or on choir website.
Wednesday, March 18 & Friday, March 20
SKY Walks
Seniors Keeping Young meets at Catholic Church on Miller Road Mar. 18 & Gas Station Mar. 20. Both 10:30 am
Thursday, March 19
Family Cardboard Drive-In Movie at the Library
Celebrate Spring Break by building a cardboard car and watching a cartoon together! All ages welcome, kids must be with an adult Register with Library, runs 11 am to 12:30 pm
Friday, March 20
Norden the Magician at the Community Centre
Come see one of Canada’s premier magicians, whose comedy-filled shows and wonderfully wacky personality captivate audiences of all ages. Doors at 2 pm with the show starting at 2:30, ticket info on Rec website.
Saturday, March 21
French Connections at the Library
Drop in and join us to practice your conversational French, and get to know other French language learners on Bowen Island! Free, 10:30 to 11:30 am. bipl.ca/French
Saturday, March 21
Artist Reception at Catching Stars Gallery
Feature artist Mekaila Tyrrell is at the gallery to showcase her ‘Lapis Mystica’ works. Meet and great Mekaila from 2 to 4 pm and check out her art during the month of March.
Sunday, March 22
Book Donation Morning at the Library
Friends of the Library welcome your donations of clean, good condition used books. They’re especially seeking novels and kids books. From 10 am until bins full (Noon latest).
TUESDAYS
Bowen Celtic Music Group
All instruments and levels welcome – we start slow, call out the songs in advance, and can send out a digital songbook as a PDF if you’d prefer sheet music, chords, or guitar tabs. Takes place at Bowen Court on Seniors Road from 7 to 9 pm. Suggested donation of $5 per session.
WEDNESDAYS
Family Storytime at the Library
A free 30-minute drop-in program of stories, rhymes, and songs for children age 0-6 and their caregivers! From 10:30 to 11 am, families are welcome to stay after until 11:30 and socialize in the cozy Annex, read books, and hang out!
THURSDAYS
Thursday Art Group
Join the Thursday Art Group (TAG) at Collins Hall from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm to paint and create together. $30 per month or $10 drop-in. Info at shannonrondeau@shaw.ca
