Events
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Victoria Day Closures
BowenIslandMunicipalityOfficeswillbeclosedonMonday,May19, 2025fortheVictoriaDaystatutoryholiday
Theofficeswillre-openat8:30amonTuesday,May20,2025.
TheBowenIslandRecyclingDepotwillalsobeclosedonMonday, May19,2025withnormaloperationsresumingonThursday,May22, 2025.
We’reHiring:Manager of Infrastructure
TheManagerofInfrastructurewillprovideexpertiseintheareasof municipalinfrastructureandassetmanagement,includingengineering, municipalwater,drainage,wastewatercollection,roads,buildings, parks,andlandscapemaintenance.
Thispermanent,full-timerolewillberesponsibleforsupportingthe planningandexecutionofcapitalinfrastructureprojectsaswellas leadingthedevelopmentofacomprehensiveassetmanagement program.2025.
bowenislandmunicipality.ca/jobs/
The Official Community Plan (OCP) Survey is now open!
TheOCPiscouncil’soverarchingguidingdocumentandwillhelp steermanyofthedecisionsthataremadeoverthenexttenyears. Thissurveyisopentoallresidentsandwereallywanttocaptureas manybigBowenopinionsaspossibleonimportantissuessuchas housing,amenities,andtheenvironment.
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Questions?ContactIslandsTruston250-405-5151orbudget@ islandstrust.bc.ca.
SwimBowen volunteers eligible to win too!
MARY LETSON SwimBowen
Do you love SwimBowen but perhaps don’t love ocean swimming? One of our team will likely try to change your mind - but in the meantime we got you covered.
Come out and volunteer on Saturday July 12 and help support Bowen’s best loved event - an annual ocean swim benefiting the Cancer Care Fund supporting Bowen Island residents in active cancer treatment. There are a myriad of joyful jobs to choose from including greeters, parking attendants, swimmer exit assistants, event set up, refreshments and more.
Find the volunteer position that fits for you and help us create the joy that is SwimBowen. Volunteers can register online at swimbowen.com
In classic SwimBowen style, volunteer registrations received by May 15 are eligible to win a fabulous prize! Questions about volunteering? Email swimbowenvolunteer@gmail.com
The weather and water may change but the sense of accomplishment, physical and mental joy is something you can count on. A gift every single time
We are stoked to have eight teams this year coming together to train, fundraise and celebrate one another in the greatest little swim in the Gulf Islands
A tsunami of thanks to our stunningly generous 2025 corporate and community sponsors: Fresh Tracks, Brian Smallwood, Allan Financial, Marie Neys Fine Arts, Bellwater Island Treatment Systems, Ratcliffe LLP, First Credit Union, Orchard Recovery, Ross McCorquodale, Edward Jones, Bowen Island Properties, Irly Bowen Building Centre, Bowen Event Rentals, Tunstall Bay Beach Club, Eleanor Rosenberg, Gord Rose/Arcteryx, Bowen Island Sea Kayaking, Bowen Wellness Centre, Karen Shea, Bowen Pub, Tippy’s, Phoenix, Tuscany, Bowen
Getting into the ocean for your swim training - especially early in the season - can be a daunting task That’s where SwimBowen teams make all the difference. Knowing your swim mates are waiting for you at the water’s edge ensures you squeeze into your wetsuit, grab your swim buoy and goggles and bag a lap or two around the bay.
Island Flower Shop, Union Steamship Marina, Cocoa West, Cates Pharmacy, The Ruddy, Tell your Friends, Fabulous Finds, Squirrel, Miller’s Meats, Artisan Suites, Kathy Clarke Jewellery, BC Ferries, CheeseMan, Out of the Blue, Bowen Golf Club, Bowen Island Integrated Health, Alderwood Farms, Artebella Skin Health, Scott Robarts Photography, Alys Williams Photography.
Have questions? Keen to support a swimmer? Jump into swimbowen. com, or email swimbowensociety@ gmail.com
See you on the beach!
SwimBowen volunteer Lynne Hartle. / Scott Robarts photo
Garden Party with a Hair Raising Event
LICHEN TILLEY
Seniors Keeping Young
The community is invited to SKY’s (Seniors Keeping Young Society) third annual Garden Party on Saturday, June 7 from 1 to 5 pm. SKY is partnering again with Bowen Island Museum and Archives in their serene garden and you won’t want to miss a moment!
What began as a simple summer tea honouring the seniors of Bowen Island has blossomed into one of Bowen’s most charming traditions Picture this: a sun-dappled garden filled with the sound of live music, tables brimming with delicious hors d’oeuvres, and laughter drifting amongst old friends and new acquaintances
It’s a celebration of community, connection, and camaraderie But this year, things are getting even more engaging!
To mark the third anniversary, we’re adding a spirited twist with a Fascinator & Chapeau Contest! Guests are encouraged to don their most whimsical, stylish, outlandish or historically or creatively inspired fascinator - those delightful, decorative headpieces that became all the rage among fashionable women in the 18th century and have since graced royal weddings and race courses alike.
And for the gentlemen, it’s time to tip your top hat to tradition (or maybe something wildly creative like a tricorner) with your most interesting chapeau.
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VIEWPOINTS
EDITORIAL
Enjoythe Long Weekend!
Thank you very much to everybodywho made this week’s Island Wide paper happen! We hadanamazingresponserateand as you will seeithas resulted in averywide range of stories and topics within these pages. Each week thesesubmissions giveusrevealinglooks at so many differentpeople and thingshappeningaround Bowen, and we’reall very grateful to everyone who puts themtogether forhelping us learn aboutand build ourcommunity! It is still aboutamonth out, butour next Island Wide paperinJune will be theGrad Issue! This is alwaysa bigone everyyear, and it’s nevertoo early to startgettingyoursubmission together for your specialgrad. It’s simple too! Just awriteup (around ~100 words) aboutyourgradand their achievements, and aphoto(often the grad photobut it canbe anything). That’s it! And don’t worry, there will be many moreremindersfrommein the followingweeks.
That’s all for now! Time for all ofustoenjoy the longweekend. Hopefullyyou canspend it as happyand content as themajestic SeaLion king (snapped by Lisa Brougham) below. See you nextweek!
-AlexKurial, Editor
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Queen vs Green Festival returning this weekend
MICHAEL FLORENDO Contributor
Spring is a time of lingering crisp nights and morning frost mixed with flower buds beginning to form; it’s known for mixed weather: sleet or rain-showers couped with the returning sun’s warmth with increasingly longer days.
One can almost feel the sense of community optimism in-bloom as the weather improves… but how can we truly know that the winter is behind us? The age-old battle of the Winter Queen and Spring Green, of course!
The Green Man festival was a uniquely Bowen-quirky, old-British-Isles-folk-inspired local tradition that was brought to this island originally by the beloved Reverend Shelagh MacKinnon and brought to life by a large crew of local volunteers.
The Green Man Festival ran in various formats and with a variety of elements for several years in various iterations throughout
the Cove… This festival was remembered fondly by many youth of Bowen Island, who, over the past several years decided to reimagine, reinvent, and reintroduce the festival to Bowen Island!
The return of the event was proposed and led by a group of local youths, who strongly felt that bringing back this community event was a way to bring back the sense of community spirit, as well as instill community involvement in the next generation.
By taking the lead role in this event, the youths helped rebuild community connections within their generation and celebrate in a way that uniquely reflects the community they live in. Simply put they brought back a sense of joy and shared it with the whole community in an inclusive, accessible, no-charge, free and fun fashion.
The have renamed the festival: Queen vs Green, to highlight the key feature of the interactive play: the battle between the armies of Spring green and Winter icicles.
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Aftera determined and courageous battle against an implacable foe, Rosalind left us on May7th
Wife toJon Ritchie, mother to Colin and Devon,daughter toAnna and Sandy,youngest sister to Judith, Helen and Jillian, aunt toKate, Matthew,Jasmine and James, friend to multitudes,master of science, imagination, artistry, humourand empathy.
as boundless as thesea,her love as deep
Winter vs Spring clash
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5
Mark Saturday, May 17 from 11 am to 1 pm-ish on your calendar to experience the Queen vs. Green reimagined: a festival by youth, for youth
The event is an all-ages interactive theatre event with community participation. The core crew is approximately 10 teens to provide the structure as the Buds of Spring battle the Icicles of Winter followed by a traditional Maypole dance!
To bring this traditional folk tradition back, there is a need for a few more volunteer youth to help, especially with decorations, set-up, and for people in the community to dress up in their best medieval/folk attire, to don wreaths of ivy and flowers and come down to the new stage beside the Hearth and Bowen Island Public Library. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Archer’s dad by email at mflorendo@ hotmail.com
A big Thank You! to all the organizations and individuals who have supported this event, as well as those supporting the 2025 rendition!
“The Hearth Arts on Bowen supports the return of the Greenman Festival - a wonderful community event from and for our local youth. This festival brings art in all its forms to our community, celebrating our cultural identity on Bowen Island. And provides mentoring for the youth organizing this event, enabling them experience in planning a large festival,” says Jami Scheffer of the Hearth Arts on Bowen
So, Bowen Island: which team are you on? Show up in blues and whites, or greens and flowers at 11 am on May 17 at the new stage in the Cove.
So proud of this Bowen Island Gymnastics Team of 25 gymnasts aged 7 to 17 years that put in the work all year. The result was an outstanding performance at Western Gymnaestrada 2025 last week in Ucluelet, BC. Congrats Gymnasts and Families, it was a memorable weekend! / Bowen Gymnastics photo
I&.ITOWING •HAULING LTD• AUNGLTD•
Bowen Island Yacht Club’s Opening Day was held May 3 with great success. The Miami Vice theme brought those lively costumes out of the closet as members sailed past club Commodore Simon Fowler - above with Randi Topp - out in Mannion Bay. The group then returned to shore for a party at Doc Morgan’s, featuring a good dose of salsa dancing. / Roisin Kissane photos (above, top left) & Shelley Palik photo (bottom left)
Students in Jen Zdril’s class at Island Discovery Learning (IDLC) Community have been hard at work diving into a unit on journalism and media literacy over the past several weeks. They’ve been hitting the streets filming streeters (look for those pics next week), learning about the dangers of ‘fake news’, and doing the leg work of going out to conduct interviews to write their own stories This week we have a selection of those pieces from these impressive junior journalists, with more to come over the summer. A big congrats to all the IDLC kids for their enthusiasm and energy as they launch into the exciting world of community journalism!
Bowen Island Improves Access to Health Care Ruddy Easter Egg Contest
EZRA RABINOWITZ
Contributor
Have you ever missed a doctor or dentist appointment because the ferry was late? Well, now you won’t have to do that because in April 2024 Bowen Island built its first Health Centre.
The Bowen Island Health Centre is located at 1037 Miller Road. Around 13 full-time employees work there, including doctors and dentists. “If there were no Health Centre on Bowen, everyone would have to leave the island to see a doctor,” said Daniel Parke, of Salal Architecture.
Mr. Parke was one of the architects involved in designing the centre. It took seven years for the centre to be completed, though it only took two years for it to be built. Mr. Parke said, “In spite of how long it took, it was very satisfying to the community.”
Most of the money for building the centre came from more than 500 local families. One reason that the centre was built was that the only doctor on the island was going to retire. In fact, six months after the health centre was built, she retired Another is that without the centre, people would have to leave Bowen for a dentist appointment.
Olivia, a medical office assistant, has worked at the centre for seven months now. She loves her job When asked about what she likes most about the centre she said, “I like being able to help people.”
“I like that the Centre has really given access to the community for health care, and it helps people feel better.” When asked why she thinks the centre is important, she said. “I think the Centre is important because we have a growing population on the island, and there’s a lot of need
FYNN MACKENZIE Contributor
The Ruddy Potato had an easter egg decorating contest on April 20th, 2025 where people on Bowen Island decorated eggs, and they did a draw for the winner
Iris, the winner, got some yummy candy by decorating an egg. Iris got a basket of candy including some raspberry licorice, popcorn, chips, chocolate eggs, chocolate bunnies, a chocolate bar, and gummy bunnies. Theresa Hill, an employee at the Ruddy, said, “my favourite egg is probably the one that someone glued sea glass to because it’s different.”
About 60 people took part in the contest The general manager Melanie started the contest around 5 years ago and she draws the name of the winner every year. The winner’s name was Iris, and she was 4 years old. The Ruddy keeps all their past eggs and hangs them around the store every year.
for health care.” The Bowen Island Health Centre really gives to the island and is a great addition to our community
What are the hours of the Bowen Island Health Centre?
The hours are 9 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday.
Can I get a job at the Health Centre?
Yes, the Bowen Island Health Centre is looking for new employees both part and full-time!
Can I get bloodwork done at the Health Centre?
Yes, you can get bloodwork done at Life Labs!
What if I’m not a patient, can I go there if I need to?
The Bowen Island Health Centre is not a walk-in clinic, or an emergency room, although it has some capacity for urgent issues.
BowenIsland Properties LP
SEYMOURBAYDRIVE
ConstructionisunderwayatSeymourLanding’s newestsubdivision.Thesesunny,southeast-facing propertiesarenestledintothecoastalbluffs aboveSeymourBay,offeringviewsoftheStraitof Georgia,Vancouver,andMountBaker.Located justashortwalkfromBowen’s9-holepublicgolf course,thebeach,andanextensivetrailnetwork
NOWUNDERCONSTRUCTION
759SeymourBayDrive(Lot8)
2,673 s.f., 2-storey home with:
•1,373s.f.mainfloorwith2bedrooms,1.5baths
•1,300 s.f.lower floor,withpotential for 1-bedroom suite(finishnow or later)
•2-car carport
•$2,110,000+GST (includes carport& unfinishedlower floor)OR
$2,280,000+GST (includes carport& finishedlower floor with 1-bedroom suite)
Option to completesaleearly,withpotential savingsonconstructionfinancing& transfer tax.
Let’sGet Nautical! COMMUNITY
CHOIR CONCERT
JANET ROSS
Bowen IslandCommunity Choir
BowenIsland CommunityChoir willberocking the boat andshivering your timberswiththeirSpring Concert on Saturday, May 24 at 2and 7pm.
With anautical theme, guestdirector Kip Johnson, the choir, and guest musicians are on an even keel to perfecting aprogramthatwillmake waves forfriends,neighboursand landlubbers as well.
Traditional or contemporary, avariety thatwon’t leave youhighand dry,soall hands on deck at Cates Hill Chapel where the sheet happens!
Boarding passis$25 for adults, $20 for seniors and youthover 10 -under 10 free.Tickets areavailable at Cates Pharmacy or at the door.
This waterfront home sits overlooking Deep Bay -one of Bowen’smost popular locations. 0.67 acres, with steps down to the water’s edge below,places to put your paddle board, and plentyofprivacy.Inside features an open plan on the main, with wood paneling throughout for acomfy and cozy feeling centered around abeautiful fireplace. Upstairs consistsof3bedrooms. Soak up all day sun from multiple levels of wrap-around decks, and whale-watch from the comfortof your own home. Below features an covered yet open airarea for woodworking and more. Momentsaway from Snug Cove and the ferry.
This gorgeous Bowen cottage is just one back from waterfront, and right behind the Mt Gardner government dock and neighbouring beaches of Galbraith Bay.Nearly 11-and-ahalf acres of gorgeous forest, with flat spaces and stunning ocean views.Inside is well maintained, cute and cozy,with an open plan LR/DR/Kitchen, office/den, primarybedroom above, and kids bed nooks off afun rec room. Detached studio for man-cave or she-shed. Wrap around decks take advantage of the views of Hutt and Gambier Islands, as well as the sunsets above the Sunshine Coast that are beyond. Properties rarely come up for sale along the stretch of Bowen.
$825,000
This incredibly cute and creative Tunstall Bay home has lots of charmand character that harkens back to Bowen’ssummer home days. Two-or-three bedrooms, with asunsoaked wrap-around deck off the main, and artistic touches throughout. Water features flow year round from anearby spring, and there is plenty of potential for garden and play spaces. Private, but right on the bus route. Ask about the potential for membership at the nearby Tunstall Bay Beach Club -complete with pool, possible mooring, and club house.
Strong buyers market expectedtocontinue
April broughtmuted activityinBowen’s detachedhome market, with just2 recorded sales,compared to 6inApril 2024and 14 in 2023. The averageand median sale price for April both landedat$1.71M, slightlyhigher than last year but based on averylimited numberoftransactions
Lasttwelve months (LTM) gives aclearer viewofthe market direction.
The dollar volume of sales over the period was $71.60M, down just$20,000 from $71.62 theyearprior;however year-to-datewas down 21.3 percent compared to 2024.
While new listings have increased, sales have notkept pace,leading to abuildup ininventory asunderlinedbythe 18 listingsadded during the first 11 days of May—9 new and9re-listed. Thatdynamic is shifting theconversation from competition to positioning—particularly for sellers.
The highsale reached $3.05M while the low was $0.74M, continuing abroadrangethat reflects the diversity of inventory on Bowen Whatstands out morethan pricing is the pace: averagedaysonmarketjumpedto80, a20 per cent increase over last year’sfigure. This is consistent with atrend acrossthe region— slower absorption ratesand more cautious decision-making
Bowen’spercentagechangeinthe average sale price wasdown 11.0 percent fromthe lastperiod,ranking at thebottomofMetro
Vancouver for last twelvemonths averageprice growth. However, with fewerthan 50 detached sales annually,thatmetriccan swingeasilyand should be read with some caution.
Astrong buyers’ marketisanticipated todominatethe industryunlesswesee significantchanges in theattitude of theUSA administration with respecttotrade and tariffs with Canada
In aslower market, everydecision—from pricing to presentation—matters more.
eryprivate4.94 acres of serene forest,1570 DouglasRoadoffers arareopportunitytobuild your dream retreatonBowen Island.This privateparcelfeatures twosunlit,level buildingsites surrounded by towering trees,protected moss-covered bluffs, and natural rock pools. Essential services areinplace—including adrilled well,power and communications at the lotline,and completed septic excavation—making it ready foryour vision. Locatedjust ashort stroll from BowenBay Beach and with directaccess to the extensivetrail network,this property invitesyou to embracenature’stranquility.
Thankyouagainforallyoursupport,guidance, andeffortsoverthepastfewmonths.Itwasa pleasureworking with you... you’ve made it possibleforustogooffandliveourdream!
H&C
ocatedinthe covetedValhalla strata, 801Valhalla Placeoffers arareopportunity to buildyour dream home amid nature’sgrandeur.This 0.59-acrelot boastsalevel building sitewithsweeping 180° views—from the shimmering waters of Howe Sound to the distantsilhouettes of MountBaker and the GulfIslands.Sunrises and moon-rises paintthe sky,and ever-changing lightdances over Vancouver’s skyline.Just a7-minutedrive from the ferryand Snug Cove’s vibrantvillagelife, this private, tranquil settingisidealfor those seeking serenity and connection.
Gospel Sing-a-Long opentoall
videdby theChillbillies, and thewords will be printedabove your heads to read, so no books or sheet musicwillbe required.
Bowen Island United Church & Cates Hill Chapel
BowenIsland hasseveral activefaith communities.This Sunday,May 18, at 10 am,Bowen Island United Church andCates Hill Chapel arejoiningtogether for alively service featuringasing-alongGospelHour.
Bowen‘sbelovedChillbillies will lead the singing. The“Billies”are LizWatsonon vocals and bass;DyanSpear on mandolin, banjo, fiddle and vocals;Susan Munro on fiddle,ukulele andvocals, andLorraine Ashdown on guitar and vocals.Suzanne Allan will add her lovely voice to the mix aswell.
Rev. Dr.RossLockhartwillbethe speaker in the service.The traditional elements of aworship service will be presentso Communion will be served andprayers will be offered.Therewill be lots of musicpro-
Youdonot have to beamemberof either of thesechurches or anychurchin ordertocome andjoin us.This is an inclusive invitation to anyone whowould like tosing, andhaveyour spirits lifted on a Sunday morning
We have invited thegood folks from St Gerrard’sCatholic Mission to join us as well andweare hoping to seeafew of their friendlyfaces.Therewillbelight snacks providedafterwardssowecan all stay and visit. If you arenot aregular Church-goer, that isabsolutely fine. If theideaofjoiningin communityand singing, and maybeeven dancing,to livemusic appeals to you, please join us.
We look forwardtoall beingtogether on Sunday morningatCates Hill Chapel at 10 am.Pleasebring your friends, kids andfamilyand let’s seeifwecan raisethe roof together
TheChillbillies: (L-R) Dyan Spear, Susan Munro, Suzanne Allan, Lorraine Ashdown &Liz Watson./ Submitted photo
DEPART BOWENISLAND 5:15 am -exceptSundays 6:15 am 7:30 am 8:45 am
11:15 am
pm 1:55 pm 3:15 pm 4:40 pm -exceptWednesdays 6:00 pm 7:15 pm 8:25 pm -exceptSaturdays 9:30 pm 10:30 pm 11:30 pm
HORSESHOE BAY
Time and Verse take centre stage in Bowen author’s new novel
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Daniel Cowper’s new book plays out through an intimate form of writing – the novel in verse.
Kingdom of the Clock follows the lives of several people living in a west coast metropolis over the course of 24 hours. As their day moves along, we meet more and more of the main characters and experience their stories and relationships as they navigate the expansive city. While Vancouver is not named specifically as the book’s setting, the inspiration for the novel, characters, and stories are drawn from Cowper’s experiences living in the real life city.
Cowper began envisioning the book as he and his wife (and fellow author) Emily Osborne decided to move from Vancouver to Bowen in 2019 as they awaited their first son. “I was thinking about saying goodbye to Vancouver, and I started thinking about the city more and the way that it worked and the different crazy things that I’d seen in the city over the 10 years I’d been living there.”
“After the pandemic I was really thinking about community and about cities… about the importance of cities and how much they
have to offer and the costs they impose on people,” explains Cowper “So I started writing more about characters, rather than just about the landscape of the city. And then the stories of those characters started getting novelistic, growing up and taking over the piece. That’s really when it became a novel in verse rather than a book of poetry.”
Time itself is an important character in Cowper’s novel. Living in two such different places heavily influenced how he now looks at a day, and how the same period of time and how its measured can have very different meanings and outcomes
“I was thinking about how the city really operates on the timeline of the clock in a way that the countryside doesn’t When you’re on Bowen the seasons are really important, the weather is really important,” he explains.
“In Vancouver all that stuff is a little bit secondary to the routine of the day to day. A Thursday in November works very much the same way that a Thursday in June does Because it’s operating by the terms of the clock,” he says
The novel in verse genre can trace its roots back to Russian writer Alexander Pushkin, who was writing a piece in the style of Lord Byron’s satirical work Don Juan. But as Cowper explains, Pushkin “started wanting
to treat it more seriously and write about his characters in a more compassionate and three-dimensional way. So he started writing about them like it was a novel and… called it a novel in verse.” The end result was Pushkin’s classic novel, Eugene Onegin.
The genre faded away later in the 19th century but experienced a resurgence in the 1980s thanks to Indian writer Vikram Seth His novel The Golden Gate – detailing his life experiences living in San Francisco –was a hit, leading to more authors choosing to experiment with fully fleshed out novels in verse.
“It’s a really rich form, because in poetry you can add an emotional weight and an emotional punch to something very quickly. You can move very rapidly with your story without sacrificing its impact,” says Cowper.
“But it’s also a challenging book to write, because you have to sustain the poetic energy from beginning to end. Sustaining the energy of a poem over the length of a novel is not an easy thing to do – but if you can pull it off, it’s a lot of fun.”
Kingdom of the Clock is Cowper’s second book, his first a collection of poetry called Grotesque Tenderness. Daniel says the challenge, and payoff, of composing poetry is what has led to his love of the writing form.
“I really like the music of words. I find the sound of words very exciting, and I find it very moving,” he explains “I find prose very challenging to write artistically. Writing functional prose or persuasive prose is one thing, but writing artistic prose is another thing.”
“The view that I have of literary art is that it’s doing three main things – and this is something that Vladimir Nabokov said – it’s teaching, it’s entertaining, and it’s enchanting. But it’s mostly supposed to enchant,” explains Daniel.
“I hope this book will teach people something about cities and how they work and the kind of things that go on outside of their own specific lives that are happening in real lives in the city. I hope that people will be entertained by the story… There’s a lot of plots in this book, there’s a lot of narrative fun.”
“And I do hope that the enchantment is successful. I’ve tried to make it enchanting and if that’s successful then people will have an experience of beauty, which is what I would like.”
Kingdom of the Clock is now available at Phoenix Books and at the Hearth Gallery. Cowper is planning a reading of his book on the island sometime in the near future.
BOWENROT REPAIR
Parenting with Confidence – A Powerful Evening with Dr. Vanessa Lapointe
BOWEN LITERACY TASK GROUP
Parents navigating the noise of modern parenting advice are invited to attend Beyond the Trends: Parenting with Confidence, an empowering session with renowned child expert, Dr Vanessa Lapointe
The event takes place on Monday, May 26, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Bowen Island Community Centre.
In this dynamic two-hour session, Dr Lapointe mom, psychologist, parenting educator, and best-selling author will offer practical tools and deep insights into raising resilient, emotionally healthy children, beyond and in spite of social media pressures.
As a leader in child development, she brings clarity to the often-conflicting messages parents face, focusing instead on what truly matters: leadership, respectful boundaries and connection.
Attendees can expect honest discussion around these sensitive topics, plus guidance on embracing the role of parenting with confidence, convic-
tion, and compassion. The session will include an opportunity to ask Dr Lapointe questions
Hosted by the Bowen Island Literacy Task Group (BILTG) a longstanding coalition of community partners supporting education and literacy on the island the evening promises to be both informative and inspiring.
Special thanks to event sponsors, the Bowen Island Community School Parent Advisory Council and Decoda Literacy, for their generous support.
All parents, caregivers, and community members are welcome. The cost is $10 per person or $15 per couple
To register, please visit: https:// parentingwithconfidence.bpt.me/
In partnership with Bowen Community Recreation and the After School Club, childcare is available for children ages five to nine To register, go to: https://tinyurl.com/bdhyjsk3
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with one of Canada’s most respected parenting voices.
For more information, contact: bowenliteracytaskgroup@ gmail.com
Fashion that Fascinates
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A little bit of history here: Yes, men have worn fancy hats throughout history, particularly in periods where fashion and social status were closely tied. Some notable examples include: 17th and 18th centuries, tricorn hats adorned with feathers, lace, and other trimmings were a staple of men’s fashion among the upper class.
Cavalier hats, wide-brimmed hats with feathers and other decorations were popular among the aristocracy. In the 19th century top hats made from silk or felt, were a symbol of elegance and sophistication among the upper class.
Next came fedora hats, although more subdued than top hats, fedora hats were still a fashionable choice for men. 20th century men still wear formal hats, such as top hats or bowlers, for special occasions like weddings or black-tie parties. Some men continue to wear statement hats as a form of self-expression and fashion in our century.
For women, the origins of fascinator fashion can be traced back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries in Europe, particularly in France and England. In France, Marie Antoinette was known for her extravagant hairstyles and hats, which may have influenced the development of
fascinator fashion.
In England, Queen Victoria’s fashion sense and love of elaborate hats and headpieces contributed to the popularity of fascinators among the British upper class. London and Paris became hubs for fashion and millinery.
The English aristocracy and upper class adopted fascinator-style hats and headpieces as part of their formal attire with many influential designers and hat makers contributing to the development of fascinator fashion.
Fascinators are commonplace in fashionable society today, especially at special events British women seem to be mad to outdo each other with elegant and outlandish hats!
So put on YOUR party hat! Prizes will be awarded, and the bragging rights will be worth their weight in community chatter! Whether you’re a senior, a neighbour, a history lover, or just looking for an enjoyable afternoon in a beautiful setting, everyone is welcome.
Come for the fun, stay for the stories, and leave with a smile Mark your calendars for June 7, bring your best hat, wear your “glad rags”, and your community spirit Let’s celebrate three years of laughter, friendship, and unforgettable garden parties together
Caring for Nature Photo of the Month - Spring Arbutus
BOWEN ISLAND CONSERVANCY
PHOTO BY JORDAN WICKETT
Great photo Jordan! Here’s a bit of information about this amazing tree.
Even though it’s a relatively small tree with a limited range growing mostly along Bowen’s rocky coasts and interior bluffs the arbutus plays an outsized role in supporting the island’s biodiversity.
Jordan’s photo captures the tree near its peak of spring bloom, a time when the arbutus becomes a multisensory experience. Stand beside one in May and you’ll notice it engages all your senses.
Start with the scent. The tree’s thousands of tiny flowers release a soft, sweet perfume that drifts gently through the air.
Then there’s the colour. A deep red bark peeling to reveal subtle green, leathery dark green leaves, and clusters of delicate cream-coloured, bell-shaped blossoms.
Now touch the bark and you’ll feel the cool, smooth surface beneath your fingers like the skin of a well-muscled animal. Next comes the sound. A soft buzz-
ing surrounds the tree as insects gather among the blossoms. Look closely and you’ll see the visitors: tiny metallic sweat bees, leafcutter bees, honey bees, and large, fuzzy bumblebees.
You may also see yellow and black hoverflies hanging motionless above the flowers like miniature helicopters, while butterflies like the vivid blue Spring Azure and the black, white, and orange Lorquin’s Admiral delicately sip nectar. All are drawn by the arbutus’ generous offering of pollen and nectar. Spending just an hour near a flowering arbutus in May offers a remarkable window into Bowen Island’s pollinator diversity.
After flowering, the tree sets fruit. Small green globes appear where the blossoms once were. By mid-summer, they ripen into bright orange berries, sometimes so abundant they tint the tree’s crown orange. These fruits can persist into winter, providing vital food for birds such as Oregon juncos, American robins, cedar waxwings, bandtailed pigeons, and varied thrushes.
Thanks to its steady supply of nectar, pollen, and fruit, the arbutus supports a wide range of wildlife year-round.
Jordan’s image also shows the arbutus in its favoured habitat a dry, rocky knoll with thin, coarse soil. While many trees struggle in such conditions, the arbutus thrives, thanks to a remarkable underground alliance. Its roots partner with a wide variety of fungi. These fungi form vast networks of fine, hair-like strands called hyphae, which extend deep and wide through the forest floor.
Far more efficient than roots at gathering water and nutrients, the hyphae trade their resources for sugars from the tree. This rela-
tionship allows the arbutus to survive in soil that would be too dry and barren for most other trees. While many trees rely on similar fungal partnerships, the arbutus’ strength lies in its ability to work with a wide diversity of fungal species, giving it a competitive edge in tough environments.
So next time you pass an arbutus tree, pause. Inhale its scent, admire its colour, listen for its buzzing visitors, and appreciate this resilient and generous member of our island community.
woodfibrelng.ca@woodfibreLNG
Arbutus in bloom on Dorman Point. / Jordan Wickett photo
Reach forSKY:Mobilizing Knowledgeto PromoteBrain Health &HealthyAging DeathCafewelcomes conversations
MARGARET PICHORA-FULLER
Seniors Keeping Young
SKY (Seniors Keeping Young) is delighted to announce receiving an award for avoluntary sector grant from theInstitute of Aging of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
The overall purpose of the grant is to support knowledge mobilization by sharing research with older adults SKY’s goals for the project are to expand andenhance participationinSKY and to advance SKY’s mission to promote the physical and mental well-being of our island’s residents who are 55+ years of age.
Over the coming year, there will be 10 monthly knowledgemobilization topics. Each monthwill begin with a seminar including apresentation by aresearcherfollowed by discussion. Throughout the month, SKY will provide opportunities for small group hands-on learning events to encourage people to apply and continueto share knowledge.
The seminars will be held Mondays at theBowen Island Community Centre
from 10amto Noon.Seminars willbe accessible forthose withhearing, vision and/ormobility needs.
HearingHealth is the topic for May. As partofReach for SKY andtocelebrate MayisHearing and SpeechMonth,a fair called “TheSoundingBoard” will beheld at theCommunityCentreon Saturday,May 24 from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm,includingmini-talks by hearingand speech experts, technology demos, and achancetolearn how to check your ownhearing and vision.
Futuretopicstokeep an eye out for willbe: Cognitive Health (June 2), Vision Health and Social Engagement (July 7), Nutrition (August 11, to be confirmed), CardiovascularHealth (September15, to be confirmed), Mobility, Fallsand Balance(November3), DementiainclusiveCommunities (December 1), Mental health: Reducing Stress and Depression (January 5), Physical Activity and Cognition (February 2), Sleep (March2,tobeconfirmed)
Forfurther information check the SKY website (https://skyonbowenisland.ca/)orcontact Kathy, SKY memberorganizing theprogram (k.pichora. fuller@utoronto.ca)
LORRAINE ASHDOWN
BowenDeath Care
Back in June 2024, Bowen Death Care(BDC) had our first gathering to sit together andbegin to form ideas about whoweare and what we hope to offer. We arenow acollective of individuals who arepassionate about supporting people and familiesthroughend of life education as we offer homesupport,death care, and as we examineour lives in order to live fullyand die well.
On January 5,2025, at Belterra Common House, BDC hosted ADeath Café. There is no set agenda at aDeath Café. The idea is to create asafe spacetohold anything that may be on your mind and heartaround the topic of death.
Death Cafes areopen to, andrespectfulof, people of allbeliefsystemsand faithtraditions. The one rule at aDeath Cafe is that there must be tea and theremustbecake! And there certainlywill be both
On Sunday, May18, from3to5pm, asecondDeath Cafewillbeheld at Belterra where we willgather and again talk about all kinds of elements relatingtothe reality of our mortality. Along withtea and coffeeand amazing treats, tables willbeset for smallgroupstoengage in
intimateand meaningfulconversation.
The response to the Death Café was overwhelmingly positive in January andweare thrilledtobeable to bring thistothe community again. It was clear there is aneedand ahungerfor these conversations.
Participantsdescribedthe event as “open”, “healing”,“enlightening”, “safe” and “loving”. Oneparticipant wrote,“Although death is a topic Iamcomfortabletalking about, death/ mortality is an ongoing journeyand unfolds allthrough life. To be abletoexplore this topic withothers in Communityisagift and has re-grounded me in waysI didn’t realize Ineeded.”
Thework of Bowen DeathCare has begun. Theconversations arounddeath anddying are aliveand well. Bowen DeathCare looks forward to bringing more events to the Community andtohearing from anyIslanders who maybecurious about who we areand whatwecan offer.
On Sunday,May 18, we will also be launching our brand newwebsite and we are very excited about it!For now, feel free to contact us at bowendeathcare@gmail.comifyou have any questions
We look forward to seeing youonSunday and to sharing conversation about the shared joys and concerns around life and death.
DAISY
Thisweek Daisy impressed us with her stoicpatience. An angel in allwhite,thispatient has been so brave cominginand getting thecare she needs for afast healing! We always love whenwe can tell apet is aware they are gettingthe help they need and handleit with grace. Thank you miss Daisy forbeing an A+ patient.
SummerSocial TEA SummerSocial
The Tailgators: This is what a recreational revolution looks like. Born out of a bold idea (possibly over beers), the Tailgators are the 8th & newest Slo-Pitch team on Bowen Island. They’re a ragtag crew of seasoned players, first-timers, and enthusiastic glove-wearers who just wanted an excuse to hang out, swing bats, build community, and rock denim on denim all while keeping the vibes high and the stakes low. Their priorities? Women first, everyone plays. Good vibes over grand slams. Laughs over league standings. And the firm belief that trying your best counts even if you don’t know where right field is They’re here to play, learn, cheer one another on, and maybe remember the score. Maybe. Come for the game, stay for the tailgate. Roster: Bailey Hathaway, Adam Ferguson, Brylie Guilfoyle, Molly Horton, Connor McLeod, Bayley Faragher, Theresa Volkmann, Jacqueline Strong, Justin Parker, Byron Poschwatta, Rory Dougall, Jamie Weismiller, Jade Weismiller, Ryan Knill, Hope Dallas, Conor Murtagh, James Pelletier, Jessie Robertson & Kailee Deacon.
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It was another busy week down at the ball park as the Fastpitch League continues its 5 games a week schedule for a little while longer. Much of that week was highlighted by the impressive efforts of the Firemen, who enjoyed a resurgence following an 0-3 start to win 2 games in a row.
The first of those was in commanding fashion last Wednesday night as they took the Twins to task 17-2, the scoreline prompting the mercy rule after 5 innings Kurt Stuart (left, #23) was in form on both sides of the ball as he pitched the opening 3 innings allowing just 1 run, 1 hit & striking out 3, while on offense he went 4/4 at bat with 4 runs & an
League Standings for games played thru Tuesday, May 13.
JoinaClimateActionDialogue
Regional Climate Resilience
RBI. Ewan McEachern (#15) was also 4/4 with 4 RBI - 3 of them coming on a solo home run - and 4 runs.
Ewan’s game was so nice he made the pictures twice, following another big outing Monday night in a 7-6 win over the Diggers. Two home runs in his first two at bats helped the Firemen hold off the late Diggers comeback Sam Jennings (#51) hit a home run in the final
inning, a crucial one in the end as it turned out to be the game winning run.
Friday night meanwhile was the Cruisers time to shine and they did by fending off the Twins for a narrow 14-13 win. Peter Blomberg (#1) had 2 hits, a walk, 2 runs & an RBI while also pitching 3 innings of shutout ball to start the game. Justin Wheatley tried his hand at the hot corner known as 3rd
Vancouver | Thurs.May29,9:00–10:15am
base and turned in some incredible defensive plays, all of which turned out to be crucial as the Twins had the tying run at 3rd in the final inning. Also crucial was Justin’s run in the 5th inning which came after he smacked a double He earned the coveted gold chain. The Cruisers now sit on top of the league having won 4 out of 5 games
- Alex Kurial, Scorekeeper
Climate change is bringing heat waves, floods, and wildfires. This putsstress onour communities, infrastructure,and economy.Climate resilience means rethinkinghow we design andinvestin our region —and people —sowe’re betterprepared, today and in the future.
Join the conversation,hear from an expert panel, and network with other sustainably-minded residents. Learnabout solutions that will work in this region.
SFU JWosk Centrefor Dialogue, Lower Level
580 WHastings St, Vancouver
Online Webinar |Tues.June3,Noon–1:15pm
Register today using the QR code, or visit metrovancouver.organd search “climate”
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Thursday, May 15
Tween Night: Buffy and Blood Candles with Bowen Rec
An ink and ‘blood’ candle painting workshop followed by a screening of Buffy the Vampire Slayer Popcorn and art supplies provided. Ages 10-13, at the Bowen Island Community School Multi-Purpose Room from 6:30 to 9 pm
Friday, May 16 (and other dates)
SKY Hangouts
Drop in at the Seniors Cottage on Cardena Drive. We will be offering a welcoming place to stop in for a drink & visit with friends Hangouts also May 20, 21 & 23, all 1 to 3 pm and all featuring a guest speaker.
Saturday, May 17
Queen vs Green Festival
Experience the traditional folk battle between the forces of Winter and Spring, reimagined by Bowen youth From 11 am to 1 pm at the Library/Hearth stage. More on Page 5.
Saturday, May 17
Conversational Italian at the Library
Come explore Parliamo Insieme: a Conversational Italian Group Drop in and join us to practice your Italian, and get to know other Italian speakers on Bowen Island! All ages of adults and youth welcome! 11 am to Noon. bipl.ca/Italian
Sunday, May 18
Death Café Meetup
A Death Café is slightly different than your average gathering. It has three components: Tea is provided. Cake is provided – and the conversation is focused solely on death. You will be hosted by various members of our Bowen Death Care Collective. Each member of our Collective is
passionate about end of life care on Bowen Island and we look forward to meeting with you Belterra Common House at 3 pm.
Wednesday, May 21 & Friday, May 23
SKY Walks
Seniors Keeping Young Walks at Catholic Church on Miller Road. Both walks same place, start at 10:30 am
Saturday, May 24
Reach for SKY Talk
Hearing Health Workshop May is Speech and Hearing Month at the SKY hearing fair “The Sounding Board” with talks, demos and hearing screening at the Bowen Community Centre at 9:30 am More on Page 19.
Saturday, May 24
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! Runs 10:30 to 11:30 am The focus is on French speakers with beginner and intermediate conversational skills bipl.ca/French
Saturday, May 24
Community Choir Spring Concert
Bowen Island Community Choir hosts its Spring Concert at Cates Hill Chapel. This year’s theme is Nautical. Shows are at 2 and 7 pm Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors and youth over 10, kids 10 and under are free
Monday, May 26
Mobile Eye Clinic
The Mobile Eye Clinic makes its return from 9 am to 4 pm at the Bowen Health Centre. Services include eye exams, senior & children’s vision care, prescriptions and more.
Drop-ins welcome but appointments encouraged Visit clearlighteyes.ca to learn more
Saturday, May 31
SK8 Day with Bowen Rec
No registration required! This free event features ramps, rails, boxes, and more at Fire Hall #2. Let the shred-fest begin! All ages but kids under 10 need an adult present. Helmets mandatory. Runs from Noon to 2 pm.
WEDNESDAYS
Storytime at the Library
A free, drop-in program of stories and songs for 2-4 yearolds and their caregivers! 10:30 to 11 am bipl.ca/storytime
THURSDAYS
Thursday Art Group
Join the Thursday Art Group (TAG) at Collins Hall to see what’s new. Meetings from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm For further information please contact shannonrondeau@shaw.ca
Babytime at the Library
A free, 30-minute drop-in program of songs, books, and rhymes for babies 0-24 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
SATURDAYS
Bowen Island Farmers Market
The Bowen Island Farmers Market season is underway! Come to Bowen Island Community School from 10 am to 12:30 pm to check out all of the vendors and special events. This week’s activities include the seedling sale!
SKY Mahjong
Come and play Mahjong at the Seniors Cottage on Cardena Drive. 1 to 3 pm, RSVP info@skyonbowenisland.ca
Here's Bowen Arts Tour 2025
