SOCCER STARS The first ever soccer tournament hosted by Bowen Island FC at the end of August was a rousing success on and off the field as the club welcomed four mainland teams to the island. After a spirited day of competition it was one of the two local sides Bowen Black - with teammates Abderrahim Taouil, Alex Pacheco, Leo Pedersen, Matt Smith, Stephan Nieweler, Steven Reymond & Susan Gillinghamwho hoisted the trophy. The winners were joined by the rest of the teams for an after party at the Bowen Pub, and the tourney is already slated to return. Check out Page 18 for a full recap! / Submitted photo
Coastal communities letter demands action of BC Ferries
ALEX KURIAL
Editor
Bowen Island is being joined by other ferry dependent communities in calling for “urgent action” to address chronic and ongoing issues with BC Ferries service.
Bowen mayor Andrew Leonard announced Thursday he’ll be delivering a letter on behalf of coastal communities to BC Ferries CEO Nicolas Jimenez during the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) conference taking place in Victoria this week. The letter will include calls to action on topics including “deteriorating service, growing congestion, and inadequate terminal infrastructure across minor routes.”
“Ferries are an essential service for our residents, this is their road home,” says Leonard. “Local governments shouldn’t be left to absorb the operational and financial fallout of system-wide issues. We need BC Ferries at the table now with a formal, ongoing consultation framework that leads to real decisions and tangible improvements.”
TIPS TO TACKLE THE NOXIOUS AND RESILIENT DAPHNE LAUREOLA
BOWEN ISLAND GARDEN CLUB
“Noxious invasive” - The words conjure something loathsome - nasty toadstools oozing venom, stuff to spike a witch’s brew.
But like the shiny poison apple that doomed Snow White to a sudden swoon, some aggressive imports are both beautiful and sweet smelling. Allow me to introduce Daphne laureola, also known as spurge laurel, or Daphne spurge.
This charming evergreen is such an unfussy plant It tolerates sun, shade, poor soil, winter rains and summer drought. It is deer-proof, and spreads into a luxurious mass of shiny dark green foliage that is studded with sweet smelling cream flowers in spring, and waxy black berries in the fall. It sounds all too temptingly ideal, especially here on Bowen.
Unfortunately, not much is perfect in this world, and the beautiful Daphne laureola is actually a bully and a thug. It is hard enough to contain in our gardens once it has established itself and begun to develop the massive root structure that makes it a nightmare to untangle, but thanks to the birds who distribute its single-seeded berries, it can spread quietly throughout the understory of the forest.
Within a few years of making itself comfy in a new location, the pretty little evergreen has spawned a cheaper-by-the-dozen, multi-generational family that can choke out all our natives, including toughies like salal, Oregon grape, and sword ferns. As indigenous plants disappear, the fragile ecosystem of the island is altered and the continued existence of our coastal rain forest is threatened.
It seems difficult to believe it when you look at one little plant, but Daphne spurge can actually go up against a Douglas fir and come out the victor a shockingly few generations later
The Bowen Island Garden Club is asking Islanders to do their part in eliminating this noxious weed from Bowen. Small plants can be hand-pulled but larger plants must be cut, and this is best done in summer or early autumn.
Parks Canada recommends digging below the soil surface and cutting the stems off below the place where they change colour from brown stem to orange root. If stems are severed above the root line, the plant will send out a whole crop of new shoots and double in size within a season. The Garden Club has a marvellous tool called an “extractigator,” which is available to borrow on request should you wish to tackle the task.
To get back to the clunky poison apple metaphor at the beginning of this article, daphne laureola is toxic. Gloves and long sleeves are essential. WorkSafe BC even recommends goggles. The plant exudes a noxious substance that can cause eye and skin irritation.
Collect all cuttings and uprooted offspring on a tarp and wrap them up when carrying them to avoid replicating the birds’ distribution system. They should be burned, not disposed of in your compost or green waste bags. Never carry cuttings or plants in an enclosed vehicle because they emit a noxious compound that can attack the respiratory system.
Sounds scary, doesn’t it? It should make you think twice about the fluffy, sweet-smelling bed at the bottom of the garden; it’s really a sleeping ogre.
APPLEFEST
to advertise pleaseemail Tracey at ads@bowenislandundercurrent.combyNov. 3rd
Be sure to take proper precautions when dealing with Daphne laureola. / Jon Benedictus photo, Getty Images
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CARTOONIST
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Letter: Bowen Island Properties - Seymour Bay Town Centre
PETER FRINTON Letter Writer
Bowen Council and planning staff were both wise and prudent in requiring Bowen Island Properties to undergo an Official Community Plan Amendment Process to further the development of Seymour Bay.
The 2011 OCP does reference the Cowan Point Comprehensive Development Area in Section 3.4.5, with Objectives 65-67 clearly imagining phased clustered, residential, commercial, institutional and park developments within the area.
While Policy #147 did allow exceptions without OCP amendments to allow greater than the maximum number of dwelling units, their minimum lot sizes and floor space ratios, there was no envisioning of what is now proposed
The opportunity now is to actually incorporate the redevelopment plan within the OCP Review, rather than complete the review, then consider the application. This would require assent by Council, in principle, that the creation of a Town Centre at Seymour Bay is a desired outcome, and outline what the general requirements might be.
I support the idea - to create another portal to Bowen,
construct mixed use, compact housing and community facilities in an area well served by road, electrical, water and sewerage infrastructure. The construction of a proper, protected dock is of paramount importance (such a dock did exist when I first landed on Bowen shores in 1960 for a Boy Scout Camporee!)
Passenger connection by water to both Vancouver and Snug Cove would be a quantum improvement over what we have now.
The addition of a bus serving Seymour Bay would relieve car pressure for future residents there, golf visitors, and Bowen Islanders living elsewhere. I can even envision an ‘electric cart service’ along the East shore on a narrow track which would begin at the Channelview Drive switchback, pass between Apodaca Park and the Ecological Reserve, terminating at Seymour Drive.
Cowan Point and Seymour Bay are without doubt, treasured jewels on Bowen, and deserve better planning and utilization than what was foreseen in the 2011 OCP We simply do not have enough appropriate land in Snug Cove for much more attached housing, and the sunnier, drier south side of Bowen has more than considerable appeal for those, among others, wishing to remain on Bowen yet move out of their larger houses with yards requiring upkeep.
Combined with forward thinking energy systems, water conservation, more trails, good water access, we could have an admirable development there.
- Peter Frinton
This boat enjoyed a front row seat as a pod of passing Orcas swam through south Bowen waters last weekend. / Haig Farris photo
VIEWPOINTS
Letter: Difficult choices to address the Ferry problem
TRAVIS BEALS
Letter Writer
To the Mayor and Council of Bowen Island, and the Editor of The Undercurrent,
The ferry situation is continuing to deteriorate. Last summer, Bowen’s ferry had the worst on-time performance of any route. Rather than working to improve service, BC Ferries responded by cutting sailings during peak time when we already routinely experience overloads.
The nature of overloads is the excess demand spills over from one sailing to the next, resulting in lengthening delays, traffic chaos, and increasing disruption to our lives.
I believe we should welcome as many people to
Decals will be available for sale at the Snug Cove General Store from Oct 6th to 16th ONLY.
Drop offwillbedone by appointment ONLY.
Once youhave picked up your decal, you can call Bowen Waste Solutions @604-947-2255 to book an appointment.
The final day for booking appointments will be Friday,Oct 17th at 3:00 PM.
Alimited number of appointments will be made available.
Drop offofmaterials will be inside theBIRD yard from Monday,Oct. 20th to Saturday Oct.25th
Note: 1decalper household only
ABSOLUTELY NO, Paint,Hazardous Waste, Tires or Drywall Waste Solutions
Check out
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca
www.bowenwastesolutions.com
live or visit to Bowen as we can without degrading the quality of life and natural beauty that make this island such a special place. Unfortunately, we’ve hit the limit of what the island can support with our current ferry infrastructure, and we don’t have the power to upgrade it on our own.
Our mayor, council, and our MLA have tried working with BC Ferries and the provincial government to improve the situation, but their appeals have been met with stonewalling and excuses. BC Ferries has no plans to increase our route’s capacity.
Rather than helping, the federal government is attacking BC Ferries for trying to replace ships that are more than half a century old and literally falling apart. No help is coming. We’re left with hard choices. We can allow continued population and tourism growth to degrade our quality of life, or we can take emergency measures to slow growth
FALL CLEAN-UP 2025
says
until the ferry infrastructure crisis is addressed. There are two emergency measures Council could take to temporarily slow demand growth and prevent things from imploding:
1) Pause new residential building permits
2) During peak tourism months, ban non-Bowen residents from parking on any municipal property, to discourage tourists from bringing their cars (registered tradespeople would be exempt)
This isn’t a choice we should make lightly it will certainly create hardships for Bowen businesses and property owners, and may have other unintended consequences. Unfortunately, we don’t have a lot of options, so I hope Council will consider taking these measures before next summer unleashes even more chaos on our island.
- Travis Beals
Hazardous Waste NOT Accepted:
•Products that cannot be identified
Keep Away From Open Flame or Spark
•Products that are leaking or improperly sealed
•Empty containers
•Commercial, industrial, or agricultural products
•Cosmetics, health and beauty aids
•Insect repellants, disinfectants, and pet products
•Diesel, propane, and butane fuels
•Caulking tubes
•Fertilizer
Paint Cans
•Donot bring in cans that have avery small amount.
•Open and combine your paint together to fill cans.
•Allow empty cans to dry and put cans in the metal bins.
For items not found on this list, please call BC Recycling Hotline 604-732-9253
Friends of the Library Book Donation Mornings!
ANNA-MARIE ATHERTON
Friends of the Bowen Island Library Society
The Board of the Friends of the Bowen Island Library Society (FOBILS) is pleased to announce that once again FOBILS can accept book donations. Although we have not yet secured a permanent book storage location, a small, temporary space has been made available at the Library.
Starting Sunday, October 5, from 10 am to Noon, we will accept donations in the Library Annex. As storage is very limited, we will be accepting only fiction and children’s
books in good condition. Non-fiction may be considered based on relevancy, age and condition of books.
Donations will be accepted starting October 5 and every two weeks thereafter until November 30. Check the community calendar through the Library website for details and dates.
Please remember that books must be in good condition with no marks, torn pages or musty odours.
Donations will be used to stock the Mini Bookstore in the Library foyer, and for a one day book sale on Saturday, December 6 in the Library Annex.
More information about the Friends and our donation guidelines is available at bipl.ca/donatebooks
The Mini Bookstore in the entrance to the Bowen Library. / Submitted photo
Bowen RCMP Constable excited for home posting
NEW CONSTABLE IS LONG-TIME ISLAND RESIDENT
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Bowen’s new RCMP officer is no stranger to island life.
John Yamashita stepped into the vacant Constable position - left by the departure of Paul Towne - at the start of August. While he’s new to the detachment, Yamashita has had the benefit of living on Bowen for many years while he worked on the mainland. When a position on-island came open, he jumped at the opportunity.
“It’s been a great start. It’s only been a month and a half, and I’ve enjoyed every day,” said Yamashita earlier this month. His first high-profile public appearance came during the Bowfest celebration where he attended the RCMP tent along with existing Cst Bryan Cuthbertson
He was born in Montreal and later lived in Calgary before his family eventually settled in the Lower Mainland. Yamashita’s path into policing was anything but direct, and involved a few different career stops along the way.
“I started in the IT world. It paid the bills, but there was no passion,” he says of his beginnings. “My passion was more with sports and anatomy.” Yamashita studied to become a registered massage therapist, a role he worked for several years.
As it turned out a serendipitous client encounter would set John down the RCMP road. A conversation with a Mountie who came into the clinic proved very enticing. “With a young family, the RCMP had things that self-employment did not offer: a pension, benefits, vacation. With self-employ-
ment, if I got hurt or sick with it being a manual job, I couldn’t get paid. The RCMP checked a few boxes for me, so I followed up.”
Yamashita’s first post was in Surrey, where he enjoyed the work but found the commute from Bowen a challenge, especially with a young family. After eight years he was finally able to transfer to the North Vancouver detachment, and though it still required a ferry the trip on the other side was greatly reduced.
Now, after six years on the North Shore, the need to hop on a boat for work is gone altogether, something Yamashita is very grateful for. “Eliminating the commute has become a game changer. Not having to worry about the time, frustration or expense of commuting with the ferry - it’s a definite positive change,” he says.
Even more importantly, Yamashita is now able to be present full-time on the island where his kids are living. “My kids are in their teen years and are local for now. I felt it’s my chance to be close to them before they perhaps venture off to their own lives,” he explains.
With regards to working on the island, Yamashita says he likes the people-based policing the local RCMP is able to employ.
“I did a few years of community policing in North Vancouver with support units from a traffic and news standpoint… and I liked the community approach. Rather than just being figures on the internet or the news, we were actually face-to-face on a personal basis with actual families.”
“Coming to Bowen that’s all I see, and I’ve quickly learned that it is a very positive community to work in. It’s hard not to get to
know people here, which is nice,” he says. There’s adjustments to make too of course, particularly coming from a pair of well-staffed and fully resourced mainland detachments to a rural outpost of just three officers. But John says these conditions have the benefit of making people more resourceful. “I believe it’s just getting accustomed to doing more of everything by myself, versus having different departments and teams to consult with and get help from.”
“I think we can make the best effort in connecting with people and trying to understand what resources we can offer to help… we can do our best, make references, make the connections, and hopefully build trust along the way,” he says.
When he’s not in uniform Yamashita can likely be found playing any and all sports, including soccer, pickleball, golf, and declaring himself a free agent for hire ahead of next year’s Slo-Pitch season.
Cst. John Yamashita began his term with the Bowen Island RCMP at the beginning of August. / Alex Kurial photo
BOWENISLAND
NEW TO THE MARKET:The Bluffs atInnisfree Lane is the highly-anticipated third phase of Bowen’s popular Evergreen development,offering some of the island’smost breathtaking views—arguably the best on the west side of the island. Like the other phases, sustainability, green spaces, and asense of belonging permeate throughout, as do the sunsets and crickets’ song. The development is tied in with the Cross Island Trail via the Handlogger’sand Mt Gardnerhikes. Drilled wells in place for all lots, aswell as services at the lot line and septic fieldsalready installed.
LOT 2INNISFREE LANE -$1,500,000
An expansive 1.6 acreoffering,featuring anunobstructed view outtoWorlcombe Island, the Salish Sea and Gabriola/Vancouver Island in the distance. Aflat and easybuild site sits above ample and sunny gardening spaces.
LOT 6INNISFREE LANE -$1,380,000
0.91 acres, with astunning view outtoWorlcombeIsland, the Salish Seaand Gabriola/Vancouver Island in the distance.Nearby path wanders down to Bowen Bay Beach below. Flat and easy buildsite.
LOT 7INNISFREE LANE -$1,470,000
1.25 acres, with tiered and sun-soaked terraces, featuring aflat build site, plenty of privacy (bordering on crown land on one side)and acommanding view over Lot 2and 7.
NEW LISTING
1261 EAGLES NEST -$1,300,000
Set away from bustling roads, this quiet and secluded home sitsnestled within a family-focusedneighbourhood on the border betweenScarboroughand Miller’sLanding. Close to quiet beaches yetstill within walking distance of Snug Cove. The mainportion ofthe homeboasts 3-4 bedroomsover two levels, as well as sun/rooftopdecks, acozy ambiance,and funfeatures throughout. Downstairs’ highlights include abeautifullyappointed and separate, self-containedguest/in-law suite,aswell as plenty of storage and alarge, flexible office set away from everything -once used aguitar/recording studio but has endless other possibilities for creative minds/those who work-from-home.
Formorelistings, please visit bowenhomes.ca
SEYMOURBAYDRIVE
Sunny, southeastfacingproperties. Located ashort walk from public golf course,the beach, andextensive trailnetwork.
Limited-Time BuyerIncentive—Securea fixed-price construction contract today, and if your purchase completesin2025 we will coverthe GSTfor theland!
FORSALE
759SEYMOURBAYDRIVE(LOT8)
•Under construction.
•Moveinmid-2026.
•2,637 sq ft, 2to4 Bed, 2to4 Bath
•Carport.
•Flexiblelower floor plan.
• Option—leave lowerfloorunfinished andjustliveonmainfloor, or finish lowerfloorwithoptionalsuite
Augustclosedwithsteadyactivityand a slight tilt toward amorebalancedmarket. We saw6closedand pendingsales,justahead of last year,alongside a19per cent increase in new listings.Buyershavemoretochoose from,and properties aretakinglonger to sell— averagedaysonmarketrose to 76 days,up from 57 last August.
Despitethe slowerpace,overall dollar volume climbedto$11.46M, a13per cent gain year-over-year, and year-to-datesales volume sits nearly 19 percenthigher than 2024.Prices remain remarkably steady:the average sale price was$1.76M, and the median wasvirtually identical at $1.76M, reflectinghealthydemand acrossprice points
Over the last twelvemonths, sales areup almost30per cent,with acomparable rise in newlistings keeping inventoryinbalance Bowen Island ranked last in MetroVancouver with averagesale price growth down -7.3 per cent over the last twelvemonths, underscoring acontinueddownward pressure on prices.
As we move into thefall market, sellers should focusonaccuratepricing and strong presentation to attract motivated buyers. Buyersnow have moreselectionand negotiating power,though unique andwellpriced homes canstill draw competition.
We thank youfor your professionalism and careinhelpingus gatherthe
I was so fortunate to have youasmyRealtor. Youwentabove and beyond in everyway to makethe processsmooth andstress-free formeasa first-time home buyer
You were alwaysresponsiveand incredibly helpful,answering allmyquestionsand giving thoughtful advicethatguided me through each step E.T.
August’s top Home Sales on Bowen
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Eight properties sold on Bowen in August, with one of them standing far out from the rest of the pack.
That was the massive house - and plot of land - located at 650 Laura Road which sold for $3.8 million. The 6,041 square foot house has five bedrooms and six bathrooms, while the 9.81 acre property - which borders Riley’s Cidery - offers plenty of outdoor options for those into gardening, landscaping, agriculture, or taking advantage of the horseback riding trails.
The 35-year old country estate was recently renovated to create a more open flow and complete a sundeck which wraps around the entire home. There’s also a fourcar garage, outdoor playground for kids, and the property backs onto Mount Gardner and its expansive trail network.
Remaining on the west side, 1743 Bowen Bay Road was the next highest selling home at $1.85 million. The property is a consistent one - it previously sold for $1.849 million just last year when it was the top selling house of January 2024. The three-bed, three-bath home is 2,655 square feet and sits on land totaling 0.68 acres.
The property includes a detached coach house measuring 404 square feet and containing two bedrooms and a bathroom. The front yard of the three-decade old home is highlighted by a large garden, while west facing picture windows offer ocean views of the road’s namesake of Bowen Bay.
And it’s the west side again for last month’s third-highest sale, at 1751 Frances Walk. The 15-year old house with three beds and three baths closed for $1.755 million. It measures 2,588 square feet on a lot of 0.62 acres.
This property also features west facing views of the water and sunsets, and the back yard includes a meadow and creek along with a trail down to King Edward Bay Beach. Once there, you’re able to moor your boat at your own dedicated buoy.
Finally it is all the way to the opposite side of Bowen where the four-bed, two-bath home at 845 Valhalla Place sold for $1.75 million. The 24-year old house totals 2,825 square feet on a property of 0.71 acres.
The home offers equally stunning views of the east side of the island, including the mountains, sunrises and mainland Many of these can be seen from the outdoor hot tub, located on the home’s wraparound deck.
The three-storey home is part of the Valhalla Estates neighbourhood
650 Laura Road (above) was August’s clear top sale with a closing price of $3.8 million. Next up was 1743 Bowen Bay Road which sold for $1.85 million. / Zealty.ca photos
BIFC hopes to weave Soccer Tournament into Island fabric
SOCCER CLUB CELEBRATES NEW LOCAL TOURNEY
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Bowen Island FC closed out the summer by kicking off what they hope to be a mainstay soccer tournament in the years to come.
Labour Day weekend saw six teams take to the turf at Bowen Island Community School for a competitive yet friendly daylong mini tournament. A pair of island teams were joined by four mainland squads for the inaugural event. Bowen Island FC (BIFC) board member Andy Gillooley said the club’s idea to host the games drew inspiration from tournaments on other small islands such as Salt Spring and Denman
“There’s been an ambition within the club (for a tourney)... You look at the success of what goes on with some of the other sports on Bowen - baseball in particular - it felt like there was a huge opportunity there,” says Gillooley.
The Bowen squads drew players from their popular adult leagues, which gather to play games several nights per week. To round out the squads, BIFC organizers used their soccer connections to recruit teams who would fit the spirit of the competition.
“Being in our first year we didn’t want to open it up too far and wide… we’re all for a competitive nature, but we wanted the first thing to be that it was fair, it was fun, that it was really respectful,” explains Gillooley.
Visiting teams ended up being the Liverpool FC Supporters Club, EA Sports, Siaron FC and Unicorns FC. The host sides
were split into BIFC Black and Red sides.
In the end it was one of the local squads who came out on top. Bowen Black turned a shaky group stage performance into a stellar run in the knockout rounds, dispatching multiple favourites along the way. A 4-2 win over the Liverpool Supporters Club in the final meant the Island players secured the spoils of the tournament trophy.
The day ended with an after party at the Bowen Pub where teams were treated to dinner and a chance to celebrate the debut of their new tournament. Gillooley says the best metric available to measure the day’s success was the desire of each team involved to be right back here again next year.
“The first version went great, it really couldn’t have gone much better… All of the teams that played this year are interested in coming back,” says Gillooley. “There were a lot of people who knew each other, and there ended up being a lot of intermingling and more getting to know each other.”
“The whole tournament had a focus on really bringing people together and expanding the eyes on Bowen Island Football Club. It definitely did that, a huge thanks to the Pub and everybody that helped us out to elevate it.”
BIFC hopes that not only will this tournament find a foothold, but that down the road they can offer all the different formats represented under their umbrella - including a women’s, over-50s, and even youth competitions. Gillooley sees the local baseball tournaments as something to aspire to one day; weekend-long events with concession stands, entertainment and plenty of
BIFC hosted their first ever adult soccer tournament at the end of August, consisting of two island teams and four mainland squads. Bowen Black ended up as Champions of the event which received positive marks all around. All the teams celebrated the event at the Bowen Pub to close out the day. BIFC plans to both continue and expand the tourney in the future. / BIFC photos
fan support.
While the soccer and camaraderie turned out to be a major draw on its own, Bowen Island itself offers plenty of attraction for people looking to spend a weekend away.
“What was nice as well, especially for the off-Island teams, a few came out as families with young kids and everyone was out
watching. I think the island offers a little bit of a mini vacation for people from the city. So the draw of coming here was pretty strong,” says Gillooley.
“One main piece of feedback we got was that most people would like it to be two days next year and have the opportunity to stay over… So it’s a good problem to have for next year,” he adds.
Artists Claudia Schaefer and Jess Hart hosted a lively Artist pARTy at the Hearth Gallery on Saturday night. The pair were celebrating their current art exhibit, titled ‘All Around Howe Sound’. Their works highlight West Coast beauty through a variety of methods and materials. Their show is on at the Hearth Gallery through October 6. / Submitted photo
Team Phoenix was mistakenly left out of the Slo-Pitch Poetry Jamboree in last week’s issue! To the right is their literary entry summing up what was a very strong year for the bright red baseball squad.
Women shortstops Are the future of the league Thanks to the Phoenix. Throw any challenge At the book loving Phoenix Daniel will catch it. Ashes turn to flame Phoenix soars again
EMILYLOWAN,25, REPLACES FORMER LEADER SONIA FURSTENAU,WHO STEPPED DOWN AFTER LOSING HER SEAT
CINDY EHARNETT Times Colonist
A25-year-oldVictoria-based climate activist is the new leader of theB.C. Green Party.
Emily Lowan replaces formerleader Sonia Furstenau, who stepped down after losing her seat in last October’s provincial election.
“Our bold, progressive vision has captured theimagination of anew generation of Green members,” Lowan said at a newsconference Wednesday at Victoria’s Parkside Hotel.
Lowan won with 3,189 votes, handily beating 44-year-old Comox family doctor Jonathan Kerr, whoreceived 1,908 votes, and 23-year-oldpolitical science student Adam Bremner-Akins with 128 votes.
More than 5,200 party memberscasta ballot, aturnout of 61 per cent.
Lowan said there was nearly a tenfold increase in peopleunder age 30 in the party, suggesting it is on track towin a“record number of seats in the next election with grassroots riding level organizing.”
“We brought in thousands of new members to this party, many of whom were completely disillusioned with politicians, and you all definitely put the ‘party’ back inthe GreenParty,” said Lowan,tocheers from theaudience.
Lowan said the party is at theforefront of a movementtoreclaim B.C.’seconomyfor working people, not billionairesand multinational corporations.
“Together, we can build aresilient,thriving province that respects Indigenous sovereigntyand our planetary boundaries.”
Lowanserves aspart ofthe Climate Action Network Canada, aimed at stopping fossil-fuelexpansion and promoting renewable energy
Shesaidher goalsincludestoppingmajor projects thatdon’t uphold Indigenous rights and taxingthe ultra-rich to invest in affordable housing, free publictransit and good greenjobs
Kerrcongratulated Lowan, saying she brought “energy and excitement” to the race.
“Her campaign inspired young people toget involved in politics,” he said, adding Lowanisa hardworkerwith astrong commitment to justice, climate action and creating amoreequitableworld.
Kerrsaid he’s proudofrunning acampaign based on the hope that politics can rise above partisandivisiveness and polarization to deliver real resultsfor BritishColumbians.
“BC Green MLAs havealways served as honestbrokers,sticking to facts,evidence and results even as the other parties resort to divisive rhetoric and political spin,” he saidin astatement
“I hope that ourParty can quickly come
Emily Lowancelebratesher victory at TheParksideHotel and Spaon Wednesday. /Adrian Lam photo
together and stay focused on delivering results for people,because that is how we restore thefoundation of democracy —the trust that thegovernment is there to serve thepeople.”
“There havebeena lotofstressful and heart-wrenchingmoments along theway, and party staff havehandled themlikethe professionals that they are, putting our best footforward,” he said.
This month,Lowan called for an extension of theleadership voteuntil the vast
majority of newmembers were verified, and said shehad retained legalcounsel.
Voting forverified party membersended Sept. 23, but Lowan expressed concerns about the abilitytoverify allnew members by Sept. 22, with the party citing the threat of foreigninterference as areasonfor the verification process.
Valeriote said in anews release last week that 40 per cent of all new members had been verified, adding the party had the capacity and resources to verify the identities of all new, eligible members who wanted tovoteinthe leadership contest.
QUEEN OF CAPILANOFERRY
rightnow?-
Letter identifiesspecific ferrychallenges, calls formeasureable action moving ahead
CONTINUEDFROM PAGE 1
The letter is acollaboration withelected officials, staff and business leadersfromBC communities which rely heavily or exclusively on ferry service, including Gibsons mayor Silas White. Three-dozen of these individuals met in Victoria on Sunday, with the resulting conversations promptingthe letter to be crafted. Leonardand White also met with provincial transportation minister Mike Farnworth at UBCM on Tuesdayto reinforce their concerns and ask for more accountabilityfrom the provinceregarding BC Ferries.
“Our communities have participatedin consultation exercises for years, but the system-levelproblems have only intensified,” says Leonard. “We’re askingfor immediate, structuredengagement with local governments and First Nations, backed by timelines, accountability, and action.”
The letter identifies four main categories, present across all communities which participated, where improvement ismost urgently needed: deteriorating service and reliability, congestion and inadequateinfrastructure,operational changes without consultation, and lack of accountabilityand responsiveness.
“The cumulative effect is that these challenges arebeingdownloaded to localgovernments, who are alreadystretched for resources,while ourresidents bearthe brunt of delays, uncertainty, and disruption to essential mobility,” reads theletter.
“We acknowledge thegovernance complexities BC Ferries is navigating, but the absence of accountability -whether from BC Ferries, the Province,orregulating entities- cannot continue. Ferry service is not adiscretionary amenity; it is theonlytransportation lifeline for our Communities,” it reads.
The issueofengagement between BC Ferries and ferry-dependentcommunities is also highlighted in the letter, with pointed language that the time has come tomove beyond the established informationsessions hosted by themarine transit company
“WealsonoteBCFerries’ recently released engagement plan. While rich in lofty language, it is light on theconcrete details and commitmentsthat communities require. What we needis notmorerhetoric but meaningful consultation,where decisions areshaped throughrealdialogue with those most directlyimpacted.”
holiday makers
BowenIsland mayorAndrewLeonardspeaks with residentsand officials of fellowferry-dependentcommunitiesinVictoriaonSunday. Themeeting resultedinclear demands foraction from BC Ferries, which were articulated in aletter Leonardpresented on behalfofthe communities to companyCEO Nicolas Jimenez at the UBCM conference on Thursday./Submitted photo
“We need transparency in operational planningand investmentpriorities, and we needurgent, practicalaction to addressthe deterioration of vessels, terminals, and service reliability. Communities cannolonger be lefttomanage these foundational challengesontheir own.”
The letter concludes by callingfor the establishment of adetailed framework with measurable benchmarks for BC Ferries goingforward. “The next step must come from BC Ferries: aclear, immediate commitmenttostructured consultation and joint problem-solving.”
Meet thebeautifulMika! Thissweet black Lab mix will be comingtoBowen vet for ascheduled mass removal.She’s calm,brave, andwinning heartsall around the clinic with those soulful eyes and gentle spirit. We’resending Mika all our love for aspeedy recovery!
to advertisepleaseemail Traceyat ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com by Nov. 3rd
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CALENDAR
Friday, September 26
Pro-D Day STEAM Club at the Library
Learn new skills, make something new! We’ll explore a new STEAM activity every session, with time to practice and explore science, arts & technology 10:30 am to Noon in the Library Annex. Ages 6-10. Please register at: bipl.ca/steam
Friday, September 26
Pro-D Day Camps with Bowen Rec
A trip to King Pins Bowling in North Vancouver (ages 8-12) and a Rift in the Timeline adventure at the Community Centre (ages 5-8). Register and find out full details on the Bowen Rec website.
Saturday, September 27
Nature Club Hike
Alan Whitehead & Aaron Rabinowitz will lead this rugged, 6-hour loop hike to both summits of Mount Gardner, rainor-shine. Bring lunch, water, sturdy boots, hiking poles, and, if you want, a short nature poem. No dogs, please. Meet at 9:30 am sharp. Register by email for details including starting location: bowennatureclub@gmail.com
Saturday, September 27
SK8 Day with Bowen Rec
Free event! New ramps, rails, boxes, and obstacles for all skill levels Fire Hall #2 (Adams Road) from 10 am to Noon. Full details on Bowen Rec website, helmets are mandatory.
Sunday, September 28
David Graff Trio at Copper Spirit
Settle in for a night of music as David Graff brings Rob Becker on bass and Julia Graff on violin, mandolin and accordion for all original music. Starts 7 pm at Copper Spirit Distillery, tickets available on Eventbrite.
Tuesday, September 30
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation
Drop in at the Sp’ákw’us Gathering Stage outside Bowen Island Library, and silkscreen your own little hummingbird flag, and reflect on and commit to one of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, which will be on display Presented by the Social Echoes and supported by the Bowen Library. From 10 am to 2 pm.
Wednesday, October 1 & Friday, October 3
SKY Walks
Seniors Keeping Young meeting at the Bowfest Field. Walks start at 10:30 am
Saturday, October 4
Men’s Shed Gathering
Come hang out and get to know other men All ages welcome. This week is a pancake breakfast starting at 9:30 am. By donation, includes coffee/tea and great company! At the Sea-Can Shed behind Island Pacific School.
Saturday, October 4
French Connections at the Library
Drop in and join us to practice your French and get to know other French speakers on Bowen! The focus is on conversing in French, with beginner and intermediate speakers welcome. All ages! Free, drop-in, 10:30 to 11:30 am.
Sunday, October 5
Book Donation Mornings
Friends of the Library are looking for your gently loved books 10 am to Noon, more on Page 7 & bipl.ca/guidelines
Sunday, October 5
Miller’s Meatcraft 1 Year Anniversary
Bowen’s butcher is throwing an Oktoberfest themed party to celebrate 1 year of bustling business. The celebration is at the Bowen Pub upper patio, from Noon until all smokeout supplies are fully sold out!
Sunday, October 5
Meet & Greet with MLA Jeremy Valeriote
Talk to Jeremy Valeriote, your member of the BC Legislative Assembly for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky Bring your questions and comments. No need to register in advance, open to all ages 1:30 to 3 pm, learn more at bipl.ca/meet
MONDAYS
Happy Mondays Meditation
Practical meditation classes for everyday life. From 7 to 8 pm in the Bowen Island Community Centre Meeting Room, $12 drop-in. meditateinvancouver.org/bowen-island
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! Starts 10:30 am in the Library Annex. Families are welcome to stay in the Annex until 11:30 am to socialize, read books and hang out!
THURSDAYS
Thursday Art Group
TAG is back starting September 11 and every Thursday after from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at Collins Hall. Membership is $30 per month, or $10 drop-in. Newcomers welcome and we waive the first drop-in fee. Come and paint with us!
FRIDAYS
Baby Connections at Family Place
A free drop-In program for families with babies 0-12 months. Runs from 11 am to 1 pm. Chat with other new parents while enjoying some tea, coffee & treats. For more info - contactcoordinator@bowenislandfamilyplace.com
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.
