Whilethestoryresonatesas both acautionarytaleand acallforempathy,themoviealsoendures becauseof itsartistryanditsabilitytocommunicatedifficulttruths throughmusic,dance,andemotion.Thetimelesswork ofLeonardBernsteinandStephenSondheimelevates thenarrativeintosomethinguniversallyaccessible, allowingfilm-loverstoconnectwithitsmessageon a viscerallevel.
Thefilm begins at 6:30pmonFriday night, we can’t wait to see youthere!
A Canada Goose convention wastakingplace at the USSC Marina overthe weekend / Ron Paleyphoto
VIEWPOINTS
THEWRITESTUFF. TheUndercurrent encourages reader participationin your community newspaper Youmust include yourfullnameandadaytime phonenumber(for verification only). Theeditor reservesthe right to edit for clarity, legality, brevityandtaste. Pleaselimit to under 500 words. HERE’S HOW: To submitaletter to theeditor, fax604-947-0148ormailit to PO Box 130, BowenIsland,BC,V0N1G0oremail editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com
#103–495 Bowen TrunkRoad, PO Box130, Bowen IslandBC,V0N1G0
All Advertisingandnews copy contentare copyrightof theUndercurrent Newspaper. Alleditorial content submitted to theUndercurrent becomes theproperty ofthepublication. TheUndercurrent isnot responsible forunsolicited manuscripts,art work andphotographs.
National NewsMedia Council.
TheUndercurrent isamemberoftheNational NewsMedia Councilof Canada,whichisanindependentorganizationestablished to deal withacceptable journalisticpracticesandethicalbehaviour. If youhave concernsabouteditorial content, pleaseemaileditor@ bowenislandundercurrent.comorcall604-947-2442. If youarenotsatisfied withthe responseandwish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at mediacouncil.caorcall toll-free1-844-877-1163 foradditionalinformation.
PUBLISHER Sarah Strother publisher@bowenisland undercurrent.com
CARTOONIST Ron Woodall
‘All’s Well’ -theupcomingproductionfromBardonthe Rock- tellsthestoryofHelena.Shefalls hopelesslyinlove with Bertram,hopelessbecause she knows full wellthatshecannevermarryhim. Hisfatherhasjustdied,leavinghimthelordoftheancient noblehouseof Roussillon.Her father, a good butpoorphysician,hasdied too, leavingherapenniless orphan.Sheis given shelter by the charitable Roussillonhousehold,butthegapbetween herand Bertram remainsimpossibly vast… Productionstakeplace at the Bowen Theatre on April17,18,24&25. Details& tickets available at bardontherock.ca/Submittedphoto
Congratulations Angus McTavishon yourSpecial Olympicsswimmeet resultsfromlastmonthheld inSurrey. Firstplacein100-metreand50-metre freestyle,second place in 25-metrefreestyleand breaststroke. Threepersonalbests. All yourpractice andtrainingpaidoff. Love Momand Duncan.
WhatistheThursdayArtGroup (TAG) &who arethey?
LESLIESTUBBS
Contributor/ThursdayArt Group
Acollectionof painters,fromhobbyists to seasonedartists,come togethertopaint ina varietyofmediums (oil, watercolour,acrylics,mixed media)on Thursday mornings at Collins Hall. They arethe Thursday Art Group(TAG).
Self-directed,theybring their supplies and work ontheir ownprojects.Tablesare setuparoundthe room,takingadvantage ofthe wonderfullightcominginfrombig windows at the hall. They enjoythecompany oflike-mindedcreativeswhosharefeedback,encouragementand techniques with each other.
Most ofthegroupwill make atriparound the space at some pointinthe sessionto seewhat everyoneelseisdoing andprovidefeedback andadvice(if desired). The wide rangeofartisticexperiencemeansa newer paintercan receivevaluabletipsand suggestionsthat canimmediatelybeput to good use. Artistsofalllevelsarewelcome. Bakedgoodsareappreciated.
Beforeitwasthe Thursday ArtGroup, it wasthe TuesdayArt Workshop (TAW), foundedbyDickand KatieCarterinthe early 80’s. Many people have come through TAGduringits50 yearsof meeting, and there arelong-termmembers whohave been paintingtogetherfordecades.
There’sShannon Rondeau,the official contactforthegroupwho hasbeenpaintingwith TAGfor25 years. Sheleadsthe
groupandtakes care of collecting themembershipdues,payingthe rent, answering enquiries fromthe public aboutTAG and keeping everyoneconnected and informed viaemail.
When Iasked Shannon aboutwhenshe startedwiththe paintinggroupshe advised, “about25 yearsago Mary Selman (aneighbour,art groupmember, nowpassed)convincedmetotakeadrawing class with Bill Hoopeswhen Iknewnothingaboutvalue, composition,shadoworreflection.That led to me joiningwhat wasthen the Tuesday ArtWorkshopwhereI waswelcomedbythis friendlygroupofartistswho metatBowen Court. Overthe yearsartists at allskilllevelsjoinedthegroup; some have stayed and some have left –eachone addingto the pursuit of learning, improving, socializing and having fun.”
Shannoncontinued,“Iwishtherewas roominthisarticletolistthe names of thosewhocontributed so much.Acommon thread remainsthat of commitment, support andencouragementwhile workingina relaxedenvironment.”
Shannonaddedthatthe groupheld workshops given by localand off-islandartistsand exhibitions of their works ofartatBowen Courtandthe galleryin Artisan Square.
Shannon sketches,and paintsin watercolour.“Irememberone Christmaswhen Mary Selmanand Ipaintedour Bowenferry in acryliconabout40sweatshirtsindifferent sizes, onefor everymemberofourfamilies.”
MorerecentlyShannon hascreated original
BOWENISLANDUNITEDCHURCH
www.biuc.ca | 1122 Miller Road 778-688-2061 OFFICEHOURSWEDNESDAY10-4ORBYAPPOINTMENT
Sunday Worship 10:30 am Rev Lorraine Ashdown
Sunday Massat10:00
Contact Angela Powell 604-947-2515
FOOD BANK DROP-OFF
Christmascards for her friends and family, andshe often createsawork to donateto the Hearth’s annual Mini Gala fundraiser. Asthelongest participantfromthe current members, Susanhas been apartofthis paintinggroupfor45years,since shemoved here inthe early 80’s. Susanexplainedthat aTunstall Bayneighbourinvited hertojoin thegroupof12-15 participantsmeeting at CollinsHalltopaintand socializeand encourage each other.Inthe earlydaysthey took aformalcoffeebreak,and thehome bakedgoodies were awesome.
Therewas arulethat they wouldn’tdiscuss politics duringthe break, and one fellowwouldplay the pianofor everyone. Susantookahiatusfromthegroupwhen she hadher son, returningwhenhestarted school.Shealsomissedtimewith the group whileshe wasworking asanengineer where sheused herdrawingskills constantly.
Susanhas paintedinoils andacrylics but focusesonwatercolour paintingnow,often bringinginflowers or colourfulvegetablesto paintfrom reallife. Sherecentlyled awatercolour still lifeworkshopfor TAGmembers andotherartists.DuringThursdaysessions at the hall,Susan is oftendemonstratingher watercolour skillsformembers who have come to her foradvice.
Taking workshopsandonlinelearning keepher motivatedandencouragedtotry new techniques and mediums.Susan,an avid gardener, admitswith alaugh,“coming to TAGhelps me getawayfromall the work that needstobedone at home!”
SylviaShawwasencouraged to join
thethen TuesdayArt Workshopwhen shemoved to Bowen17years ago, by Jilly Watson whom sheknewfromthe North Shorepainting group. They were meetingat BowenCourt andthere shefound agroup of interested artistsinafriendlyenvironment that supportedeachother’sexperimentation and growthin many differentmediums.
Sylviatookworkshops,includingone utilizing colouredpencils in West Vancouver, and worked in acrylicsand pencilwith thegroup. More recently she’s been takingwatercolourtechnique workshopsrun by TAG.
Thesocializing aspect of thegrouphas always appealed to her,and Sylviahas offered herhomefor painting gettogethersmultipletimes.OnThursdaymornings with TAG, Sylviawill oftenregale us with herexperiencesparticipatingwiththe SKY groupontheirexcursions and events.
Watchfor the next articleabout TAGthat will explorethehistoryofthe groupupto the present, introducemore of theartgroup members, and highlightwhatthey’ve been up to with workshops andart shows.
QUEEN OF CAPILANOFERRY
SCHEDULE UNTILMARCH 232026
Sunday Worship10:00 www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661 Carter Rd.) office@cateshillchapel.com
SHIRAT HAYAM (Song of the Sea)
BOWEN’S JEWISH COMMUNITY Shabbat Gatherings ~ Holidays
Contactaryana.rayne@gmail.com •www.shirathayam.ca
DEPART BOWENISLAND 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
DEPARTHORSESHOE BAY 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 theferryrightnow?- live updatesatwww.bowenferry.ca Schedule changesonstatutory holidays. Stay up to date at www.bcferries.com
Shannon Rondeau with watercolours.
Understanding Perimenopause& Menopause
COMMUNITY TALK COMINGUPONAPRIL 10
Vaginaldryness;
COLLEEN O’NEIL
BI Community Health Centre
Our Community Health Centre ishosting a special eveningdevoted to a topicthat touchesthelivesof so many womenandtheirfamilies—oftenquietly, sometimesconfusingly, butalwaysimportantly.
OnFriday, April10from7 to 8:30pm at Cates Hill Chapel, wewelcomeDr. Kelsey Mills,aphysician specializingin perimenopause andmenopause to helpshedlight onwhat can bealifeshiftingtransition.
Dr. Millsisan Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OBGYN) and completed afellowshipinmenopause andhormonetherapy at the University of Toronto(Mount Sinai Hospital). Sheisa Certified Menopause Practitionerand is currently aconsultant Obstetricianand Gynecologistin Victoria and a ClinicalAssociateProfessor at UBCandAffiliateAssociate Professor at UVic. In 2022she waselected to the Boardsof the Canadian Menopause Society and Canadian Women in Medicine.
Why ThisConversation Matters
Perimenopause andmenopause are natural biological phases, yet many womenfeelunprepared forthe range of symptomsand changesthey mayexperience. Research showsthat fluctuatingestrogenandprogesteronelevels can affectnearly every systeminthe body from temperature regulationand sleep cycles to mood,cognition,metabolic processes, andmore. The resultisahighly individualized experience, with symptomsthat can last for years.
While symptoms vary widely,onethingisconsistent: these changes can significantlyaffect dailylife, both at home and at work. Many women report challenges withproductivity,emotional wellbeing, and stress managementduring thistime— yetthe subjectoften remainsunder-discussed ormisunderstood.
There Is Support and Relief
Theencouragingnewsisthat womendon’t have to navigatethistransitionalone. The scienceof perimenopause andmenopause care hasadvanced significantly. Evidencebasedtreatmentsand strategiesnowinclude:
Hormone Therapy(HT) for symptom reliefin appropriate candidates;
Lifestyle strategies such as nutrition,exercise,and stress-reduction approachesshown to improve overall well-being;
Pelvichealth supportforphysical symptoms such as drynessordiscomfort;
Cognitiveandemotional supportincludingcounselling and mindfulness approaches.
Dr. Mills willbreakdown the latest research,explain what’s happeninginthe body duringthesetransitions,and answerquestions about availableoptionsfor support.
Everyone Is Welcome
Perimenopause and menopause affectnot only women but alsofamilies, workplaces, relationships, and communities. Whether you’reexperiencing symptoms yourself, supportinga partner,or simply seeking to understand this profoundlife stage better, we encourage you to come—and invitefriends and spousesifthat feelscomfortable.
Let’s make this a night oflearning, connection, and empowerment. JoinusFriday, April10from7 to 8:30 pm at Cates Hill Chapelforthisfree event.
We lookforward to seeing you there.
First CreditUniondonates to Welcome Figure
PAULINELEBEL
Contributor
Wonderfulnews aboutaproposed Squamish Nation Welcome Figure for Bowen Island!
Abitof backgroundforthose who may have missed my previousthree articles(Feb.13&27, March 13). Knowing Our Place,a reconciliationinitiativeI beganin2017,is raisingfundsfora Welcome Figure to be carved by Squamish Nation master carver, Xwalacktun. This gestureof friendship willhelp strengthen our relationship with Squamish Nation as we learn to work together.
Supportfortheproject has been comingfrom many directions,including our Municipality.Earlierthismonth, I appliedfora FirstCredit Union(FCU)ImpactGrant to help raisefundsfortheproject. You canimaginehow delighted I was to receiveanemailfrom CaitlinBryant,Impact Manager of FCU sayingthey were “thrilled to supportthisinitiative
withthefull$10,000 requested.”
Thisis such animportantcontribution to theproject. Ithank ourlucky stars we have thiscommunity-minded financialinstitutionin ourneighbourhood just ahopskip-couple-of-jumpsfrom my house. Sending huge thanks and hugs to FCUfor really gettingthe ball rolling withthis timely and generousdonation.
How can you,dear reader, becomeinvolved? Chris Corrigan,whois partnering withme on thisproject, has setupa site witha charitableorganizationwhere you canconfidentlygiveadonationand receiveatax receipt. CHIMP (CharitableImpact Foundation)foundedin2011, isa registered charityand publicfoundation. Our current totalof$700 will rise to $10,700oncethe FCU donation has beenadded. Youareallinvited to become part ofthishistoric event. Evensmallamountsaddup. Find outmore at my.charitableimpact.com/groups/welcome-figure-projectfor-bowen-island-nex-wlelex-wm
Thank you!
Aprilis Fix-itMonthonBowen
PAOLA QUALIZZA RegenerativeBowen Island
This April, Bowen Island is rolling up its sleevesforamonthdedicated to repair, resilience,and hands-onlearning.
“Fix-It Month” invites residents to reconnect withpractical skills, reduce waste, and rediscoverthe satisfactionoffixingwhat we already have.
At theheartofthemonthisthe Fix-It Fair on Saturday, April11, runningfrom12 to 3 pm at the Legion. Theinvitationis simple: bringus yourbrokenthings.
From busted appliancesandflickering lamps to torn clothing, holey sweaters, andglitchy gadgets,the Fix-It Fairisa welcoming, hands-on spacewhere communitymembers can gethelpfrom a team of skilled volunteerfixersandmenders. Armed with tools,lubricants,knittingneedles,and sewing machines,these volunteers willdotheir best to breathenewlife into well-loveditems.
The event runsonafirst-come,firstserved basis, with participantsencouraged to stay on site whiletheiritemsare being worked on, both to answer questions and to learnathingor twointhe process. To keepthingsmovingsmoothly, attendees are asked to limitthe number ofitemstheybring to three items so that as many peopleas possible can benefit.
Organizersalsoaskthat allitems be clean (no pet hair,please),andthat guestsbring a reusable cupforcomplimentary teaand coffee, helping keepthe eventas close to zero-waste as possible.
Along withofferingapractical service, the Fix-It Fair reflectsagrowingmovement toward repair culturethat values resourcefulness, environmental stewardship,and communityconnection. Everyitem repaired isonelessiteminthe landfill, and one moreopportunity to shareknowledge, save
money,and strengthenlocalties.
Buildingonthat spirit,the rest of the monthfeaturesafree Fix-it Workshop series at the Bowen Island Public Library,offering residentsthe chance to deepen their skills: April12| Fix It: Sewing Machine101 (1 to 3 pm)
With Yvette Gabrielle,this hands-on workshophelps participants setuptheir sewing machines,understand basic functions,andlearn simple textile repairs. Idealfor beginnersoranyoneneeding a refresher.
April19| Fix It:Electrical Repairs101 (1 to 3pm)
Led by Steve Elves, with Chris Maki and SteveFraser,this sessionintroduces key safetyprinciplesandfoundational repair skills, withthe chance to troubleshootand fixa lamp.
April26| Fix It: Hand Mending101 (1 to 2:30pm)
Krista Hennebury guides participants through techniquesfor repairing ripped jeansandmoth-eatenknitwear, building confidencein everyday clothing repair. Formoreinformationand to register for anyofthese workshops, go to the Bowen Island Library website at bipl.ca/fix
The Fix-It Fairand workshop series remindsusthat repairisas much about social relationshipsasitis about our relationships withtheobjects we use. It’s about sharingknowledge, reducing waste, and cultivatinga cultureof care.
Or,asorganizers putit: repair, reinvent, reduce, rethink, respect, reuse… and rejoice!
The Bowen Fix-it Fair and workshop seriesarefundedthrougha Neighbourhood SmallGrantfromthe Bowen Island Community Foundationandthe Vancouver Foundation. They areorganized by the “Repair Rangers” , Paola Qualizza and Kate Lodge, in partnership withthe Bowen Island Libraryand Regenerative Bowen Island.
The February2026 Bowen Island stats continue toreinforcea familiartheme:this isasmall,highly variablemarketwherethe broadertrendmatters farmorethan month-tomonthmovement.
Looking first atpricing,the last twelve months(LTM) tella steady butsoftening story. The average saleprice sitsatapproximately $1.66million,upmodestlyfrom$1.63million thepreviousyear, suggesting slightupward resiliencedespitewider regionaldeclines.
However,theMLS®HPI(HPI) benchmark showsa-3.1 percentyear-over-yearshift, indicatingthatwhileheadlineprices remain elevated,underlying valuehas edgeddown. This gap reflectstheinfluenceofafewhigherend salesinalow-volume market.
Salesactivity remainsmeasured Overthe
past year,56homessoldagainst161 new listings, pointing to slower absorptionand continuedbuyer selectivity. At the sametime, average days onmarkethaveincreased by roughly8 percentyear-over-year, reinforcing thathomesare takinglonger to sellandthat pricingandpresentationareincreasingly critical.
Month-to-month data,as expected,isvolatile. February2026 recordedjust6 salesversus10 newlistings,withnoticeable swingsin both dollarvolumeand averagepricecompared to prior periods. In a marketofthis size,these short-termshiftsare lessmeaningfulbut do highlighthowsensitive Bowen’s statsare to individualtransactions.
Withinthe broader Metro Vancouver context, Bowen remains relatively steady. With a-3.1 percentHPI change, it sitsnear themiddle of the pack,outperforming several municipalitiesthat saw steeperdeclines
This suggestsunderlying stability evenasthe broadermarketadjusts.
The rangeof saleprices remainswide—from $650,000 to $3.8million—withamedian of $1.52million.This spread reflectsthediversity of Bowen’shousing stockand reinforceswhy averages requirecontext.
Overall,themarketappears stable.Buyers have gainedsome leverage, whilesellers need precisionand patience.The key takeaway isconsistencyovertime: Bowenis finding balance ratherthanmovingsharplyin either direction.
February wasamonthforbig saleson Bowen, with two purchases soaring past $2 million andanother two right onthe verge ofthatmark
The top saleof last month sitsonthe island’s southernshore at 1251 Fairweather Road. The35-yearold waterfront home surpassed allothers by sellingfor$2.515million. The3,222 squarefoothomeholdsfour bedroomsandthree bathrooms,andis situated ona0.72-acrelot.
Interiorhighlightsincludeaunique barrel-styleceilingintheliving room and a largedownstairs withthree of the bedrooms. Adeckmeasuring morethan600 squarefeet sitsoffthe mainfloor,and stone steps provideaccess down to the water.
Not toofar away sits February’s second-highest sale at 759 Seymour BayDrive. The two-bed,two-bath, two-storey, twoyearoldhomemeasures2,673 squarefeet and sitson0.27-acresof land. Keeping with the two-theme,it closed for$2,237,500.
butoffersa varietyofoptionsforthe new ownersincludinga possible separated suite. Theproperty looks southeast offering ocean views starting withnearby Seymour Bay.
And, atjust ashadeshyof starting withthe number two, thehome at 908 Clipper Place soldfor$1.99million last month. The waterfronthouse on Bowen’s westernshores has four-bedroomsandfive-bathrooms among its3,440 squarefeet. The45-yearoldhouse islocatedona large1.29-acreproperty.
The landincludesa boat launch and borderson Clipper Beach, inaddition to its own wateraccess. Bedroomsarelocatedonall three storeys ofthehouseincludinga separated guest suiteonthelowerfloor.A pair ofdecksonthe topand mainlevelsare both situated to look west overthe water.
Up on Cates Hill we findanother home which came close to the$2million mark as theproperty at 873 RivendellDrive sold for $1.9million. The2022 build hasfive-beds andfour-baths, totalling3,257 squarefeet on0.24-acresof land.
Whilenotonthe water, thehomecertainly sitshigh enoughuponthehill to offer wide waterviewsoff Bowen’s east coast. The new build hasafull rangeof modern amenitiesincludinganexpansive kitchenand house-wideheating/cooling system.
1251 Fairweather Road(above) was February’s topsale at $2.515million, while759 SeymourBay Drive (below)also topped$2millionwithafinalsale of$2,237,500./ Zealty.caphotos
Celebrating EarthDay at Catching Stars Gallery!
EMILIE KAPLUN
Catching Stars Gallery
Forthemonthof April, we arefocusingon Sustainabilityandthe Environmentthrough ourartworks andthecommitment we make to theEarththrough our businesspractices. We areexcited to share someofthe sustainableprocessesfrom ourArtistsandhow theirartiscreated.
Pauulet Hohnisa multi-mediumartist - but at this pointis totallyconsumed with mosaicassemblage! Shelovesthe challenge ofcombiningunwanted,foundobjectsin her work andupcyclingtheminto beautiful worksofart.
Whetherit be old jewellery,glass/dish scraps, or just some Knick Knack Nookor otherthrift storefind, magicalways happenswhenthese discarded itemscome together. They findtheir voice,andthey findnewlife
Justine Blicqcreatesaccessories with sustainable materials. By incorporating fishleatherandcork, sheembracesa sustainable approach to fashion, creatingpieces withalighterenvironmentalfootprint. “I see my work as wearableart. Sinceno twofish skins sharethe same scale patternorshape, every Blicq design is trulyone-of-akind,” says Blicq.
Hercreations reflecta balanceof beauty and sustainability,drawinginspiration from nature’s richness. “Asanadvocate of slow fashion,Idesign Blicqproducts tolast.Iusedurable, sustainable materialsand sourcethemfrom Canadian businesseswhenever possible to minimize my carbonfootprint.”
Check out Justine’s creativeprocesswhen shedoes somedemos at the BowenArts Touron Sunday, May24onthe patioof the Gallery.
Sealuxe is a lineof skincare products
that we carryandlivesandbreathesthe rhythmofthetides.Fromthefrontdoorof coastal British Columbia andinspired by the wild wisdomofthe sea, theyblend, stir, siftand pourhealthyingredientsinfused withthe Pacific ocean’suniqueand natural elements into allof theirproducts withno animal testing.
Since2013they have packaged their productsinglass jars and bottles. They wrap their soap in recyclablefelt paper andbiodegradablefilm. They selected their recyclable packaging withthehopesthat clients willlove themenough to reuseand repurpose. Thesedecisions have notalways been easy butthey believe it makesabig differenceintheirenvironmentalimpact asa brand.
The seaweedused hashealingpropertiesincluding Hydration, Antioxidant protection, Collagen boostingand Skin Barrier repair and protection just to nameafew. Founder TanyaDroege does regular beach cleanupsasagive back to the beachesthat providethe seaweed and saltsthat are used in herall naturalproducts.
Sincethe startofthe Gallery, we have showcased paintings by Diana Izdebski.Art by Di’s focusisontheunique speciesthat inhabitthecoastlinesofBritish Columbia. Growing uponthe west coastshe hasdeveloped anintimateconnection withforest, mountains, seaandtheanimalsthat call it home.
She clearlyconveys this reverencefor nature inher paintings, highlighted by hercommitment to bringing attention to natureconservation. Herprintsandart cards have compostable packaging to keepthemprotectedwhilealso protecting the earth.
Thoseare just a few oftheartists we carrywhoarecontinuingtheir commitment to conservationand sustainability. With all CanadianArtists,andmost beingfrom
Artwork by Diana Izdebski(left)& PauuletHohn(right)aresomeofthe pieces being recognized by Catching Stars Gallery forhighlightingtheenvironment.
Bowen Island, we focusonalower carbon footprint, andusing natural materials such as gemstones,glass, metal, wood, beeswax, essentialoilsandorganic teas many ofwhichare sourcedin Canada We will be describingmoreof ourenvironmental commitmentson socialmediathroughout themonth.
Stop by the Galleryduringthe Month of April to learnmore abouthow we will celebrateEarth Dayandalloftheamazingthingsthat MotherEarthhelpsus to create from inspiring landscapes to natural materials.
Pickleball Society eyes renovationof outdoor space for growing game
ALEXKURIAL Editor
Anew societyon Bowenislooking to advanceaccess to oneofthefastestgrowing sportsontheisland,andinthecountry.
Pickleballisoneof Bowen’smost popular sports,featuringfivefull classesa week through Bowen Recreation. It’s a gamefor all agesand skilllevels,this ease of access contributing to its allure. All equipment isprovidedanditdoesnottakelongfor participants to getinto the(literal) swing ofthings.
But stillthe appetiteforpickleballis more, much morethanthe Bowen Island Community School(BICS) gym can handle each week. This sparked creation ofthe Bowen IslandPickleball Society, which cameinto being late last year. The effort was spearheaded by avid pickleballplayer -and owner/operatorof Cocoa West inArtisan SquareJoanne Mogridge.
The starting goalofthegroup: resurfacing ofthe outdoorcourt at BICS to addpickleballlineswhilealsoimprovingits general condition. Mogridge says havinga public court open to everyone would reduce some ofthe barriers to playingthe sportthat currentlyexist.
“You have to have acomputerand you
have to have fast fingers inorder to get registered,”she says of class signups which often selloutinlessthanfiveminutes. “And thenif you showupasadrop-in you may not even getin. The volunteersare turning away drop-ins everytimethere’sa session.” Mogridge adds whilethereareprivate courtsontheisland,themembershipcosts associated withthemareanother barrier to entry.
“Ifthecourtsarefinisheddown atBICS,theonly barrieris we’re not allowed to usethemwhen schoolisin session…Otherwise there will be a net accessible,there will be linesaccessible, there may be afew paddlesaccessible,” says Mogridge There’splenty of reasonsforencouragement, asthe current municipal budget has $115,000dedicated towardresurfacing of thecourt Whileuseable,thecourtis largely ina stateofdisrepair withuneven surfacing, frequent water poolingandfaded lines.A makeoverofthecourt would make it safeandfunctionalnotonlyforpickleball, butforother sports such as tennis and volleyball.
Mogridge says havinganofficial society wasa major stepinorganizing a unified pushforthis projectfromthe pickleballcommunity,whichincluded dozens of letters to the municipality advocatingforadedicated outdoor pub-
Joanne Mogridge(left)&many membersof Bowen’sloyal pickleballcrowd have madea concertedeffort to secureasafe, outdoorpublicplayingspace.
lic play space.
“I’vebittenoffmorethanIthought I was going to, butit’s going to be great. It’s already great just seeingthetheother boardmembers that are involvedandtheir enthusiasm,” says Mogridge ofthe process and team which hascomeon board to assist her.
“Everybody that I’m overlapping within thepickleballcommunity,on Bowenand evenoff Bowen,areenthusiastic about what’s happeningon Bowen withpickleball… It’ll be nice to see results withthe courts gettingdone…that’ll be a realtangiblething,”she says.
Oncethecourtiscomplete, Mogridge looksforward to findingnew ways to grow the societyandcontinue to expandthe sport on theisland, withafocusonthephysical andmental benefits of the game. “I think thefirst word isfun,”whenaskedwhat pickleballbrings to mind.“Witha capital F, a capitalUanda capital N.”
“Peoplemightdo somethingand go, that wasfun.Small f. Butpickleballengages your senses. You have to be in that moment. You have to shut everythingelse out. Whatever’s goingonin yourlifeisleft behindforthat timethat you’replayingon the court.”
Whale Talestalksupports island athletes
ALEXKURIAL Editor
Anupcomingpresentationonwhalesis promising to bebothengagingand beneficial to many communitymembers
‘Whale Tales’is beingpresentedon Sunday, April12 at the Community Centre by Bowen scientistandphotographer Tobin Sparling. Tobin’stalk will diveinto the world ofundersea mammals such asOrca and Humpback whales,drawingfromhistime as a marine naturalist.
The eventisalso servingasafundraiser forthe Bowen Island Gymnastics Club,who have ablitzofcompetitionsaheadofthem inthenextfewmonths. The teamistaking part at the BC Gymnaestradain Richmond at the startof May beforetravelling to Regina in July for the National Gymnaestrada. Strong performances at eachare the goalthis wouldallowisland gymnasts to qualify forthe World Gymnaestradataking placein Portugalnext year.
The clubis currentlyintheprocess of nailingdown their approximately15-minute performanceforthe events. About40 gymnastsfrom ages11 to 77 make upthe team, provingthat gymnastics cantruly be a lifelong sport.Embracingthewhaletheme,
a Humpback is set to play acentral rolein the choreography ofthepiece. This mammoth of the seas won’t be acostume though. Instead it will be a puppet,brought to life by the teamwho created thememorable Heronduring last year’s Bowfest Parade. Liz Nankinand a team ofartistsincluding Paul Hooson, Rose Marsolaisand Blair Hayashi will have engagedin hundredsofhours of construction by thetimethe12-foot Humpback whaleis ready to perform. The clubis already eager with anticipationforthe energy this Howe Sound resident will bring to the performance.
Whale Tales willfeatureafirst look at thisambitious puppetasitglidesaround the Community Centre Oncecomplete, the last thingthe Humpback willneed is a name.A naming campaign during April will seek to sourcethe perfect namefrom a memberofthe public beforethe puppetandaccompanying gymnastsheadoff forcompetition.
The Whale Tales event with speaker Tobin Sparling, featuring the Humpback puppet revealandin supportof the Gymnastics Club, runsfrom4 to 6pm at the Community Centre on April12. Ticketinformationis availableonthe Bowen Island Gymnastics website.
What we’relearningabout the Conservancy Cape Lands
BOWENISLAND CONSERVANCY
Someplaceson Bowenfeel specialthe moment you arrive. Cape Roger Curtisis oneofthem.
The Bowen Island Conservancy nowprotectsacontiguous190-acre area at the Cape,including1.53 kilometres of shoreline,whereforest, creek, bluff, cliff, and shore stillfunction as oneconnected living system. Over severalmonthsin2025, Claudia Schaefer(a RegisteredProfessional Biologist)conducted an ecological land assessment, anditconfirmsthat thisis oneofthemost ecologically valuable anddiverse landscapes remainingon Bowen Island.
Whatmakesthe Conservancy Cape Lands so importantisnot just their beauty It isthecombination of rare coastal bluff ecosystems, mature second-growth forest, rockyknolls, cliff habitat, andthe HuszarCreekcorridorlinkinguplands to the marine edge Twenty-four species of conservationconcern have already been confirmedonthe lands,andmore may yet be found.
The Conservancyisnowusingthe ecological assessment to informaLand Management Plan forthe Cape Lands.
Whiletheassessmentidentifieswhat exists onthe landand evaluatesits currentcondition,theLand Management Plan will build onthat knowledge to guidelong-termdecisions aboutprotection, restoration,monitoring, stewardship,and appropriate access overtime.
In practical terms, it will helpshape howthis rare placeis caredfor and howprogressismeasured not just in the yearsahead, but overthenext50 to 100 years. “In perpetuity”isn’ta slogan; itmeansongoingmonitoring, learning fromwhat we observe,adjustingwhat we do,and revisitingpriorities overtimeas conditions change.
In themonthsahead, we willshare a seriesof storiesexploringdifferentaspects ofthe Cape Lands,includingthecoastal bluffs, HuszarCreek, mature forest, species at risk,shoreline ecology,invasive species,andthelinks between land care and sea care. Our goalis simple: to help you understandwhat is on the Cape Lands,why it matters, andwhy careful stewardship isneeded.
The Cape isnot just a scenic edge of Bowen. It isa rare andvulnerable land-tosea sanctuary. Themore we understandit, the better we can care forit.
BowenIslandTrail Society wantsyou to join us in getting outsideeveryday in April.
Allyou have to do is get outsidefor 30 minutesa dayfor theentiremonth of April. Youcan hike, paddle,run, walk, ride, swim,chopwood,golf, gardenetc. –the goal is to be outsideand be moving! www.bowenislandtrailsociety.ca
#bitsapril30x30 #getoutsidebowen
Sign up by sendingusanemail: bowenislandtrailsociety@gmail.com andwe’ll send youanactivitytrackingcalendar.
Tagusorsendusyourpics! #bitsapril30x30#getoutsidebowen There‘ll be greatprizesalong theway forparticipants (winners randomly chosen)
Totallyfreefor 2026 BITS membersor$10 fornon -members Don’tforgetabout ourpopular doggocategory! They just need to be out therefor at least30minseveryday. Freeentry. See yououtside Bowen!
RockandRollandRanching
BARNEYBENTALLATBOWENTHEATRE APRIL4
BARNEYBENTALL
Contributor/Musician
Ihaveoften beenasked,if Iwould liketowrite memoir.Isuppose“My Lifein Ranchingand Rock &Roll”, is amemoirof sorts. Butrather than trytorecount 70 yearsonthisplanet, thisshowfocusesonthree things: my careerin music, ourtime cattle ranchingintheinteriorandmost importantly,family.
We hadaworking ranchinthe Caribooandoperated itfrom2000 to 2006. We ran250headand turned them outwiththeir calvesandthe requisitenumberofbullseach spring, summerandfallon60,000 acresof rangeland. It wouldtakeyou a halfhour to drivefromoneend to theother!
It hadmountains,forests,lakes, itsfairshareofswampsand you could go for weeks, havingnoidea
whereallthesecritterswere. Most ofthe work wasdoneonhorseback. I came to realizeoverthe years, thatpeople tendedtobeentertainedandlistenjustalittlemore intently when the ranchingstories game out.
I’mthrilledto dothefirst performance/dressrehearsal inthewonderfulnewtheatre we nowhaveon Bowen. Theshowwill starttouring this spring and go for as long as people want to hear atalltaleor two, seesome good visualsand laughalong withme at what wasa remarkableandunique chapterof ourlives.
Iamgrateful to TheHearthand theMunicipalityfor jumpinginand making this happen.
Theshow consistsofstories, songs, videoand photos.Iwill beaccompaniedbyBowen’s own CindyFairbankand Eric Reed from NorthVancouver.
LILA
TheBowen Island Health Centre Foundation is seekingnew memberstojoinits BoardofDirectors!
TheBowen Island Health Centre Foundation is acommunitygoverned non-profitcharitablesociety supportingaccessible, qualityhealth careservicestomeetour unique community needs. TheBIHCF Boardoversees theBowenIslandCommunity Health Centre operations, Health Centre leasingand tenant relationships,and allfinancialmatters.
We arecurrently seekingup to 3new directorsideally with previousgovernance and/orcommittee experience,and expertisein: Health care, with apreferencefor experience with primary careand/or family practice,interdisciplinaryteam-basedcare, orthe CommunityHealthCentre(CHC) model Fundraising and/or partnerdevelopment Finance
To applyorlearn more,pleasevisit: tinyurl.com/pxabcmnz
Lila, a5-year-oldpup, visited usforherannualwellness examandquicklystole everyone’s heartswithher sweetpersonality. Known asbeingcompletely“ball crazy,” shekeptussmiling throughouthervisit.While she was abitnervousfor her exam,she wasincredibly brave anddid agreatjob, helping ensureshestays healthy,happy,andreadyfor manymoregamesoffetch. We loved seeing Lilaand can’twaitforhernextvisit!
Barney Bentallisbringingsongs from therange to Bowen. /KathWolvertonphoto
Whether you’rea seasonedwriteror just starting out, all agesand typesofwriterare welcome to shareandgiveconstructivefeedback on each other’s writing inthis positive and supportiveenvironment. From5 to 6:30pm. Free event, registration required – register at bipl.ca/write Thursday, March26
BowenContra Dance
Beginners(andalllevels) welcome to thisfree dance session! At Cates Hill Chapelfrom7:30 to 9:30pm. Friday, March27
Movie Nightat Bowen Theatre
Bowen Island Film Societyis screeningthe classic musical ‘West Side Story’. Starts6:30pm,moreinfoon Page 3. Saturday, March28
Skwxwú7mesh History BookClubattheLibrary
In thisfriendly book club, we’ll be discussing part two of Tiná7 Cht Ti Temíxw: We ComeFrom ThisLand: a Walk Throughthe Historyofthe Squamish People (2024), by the Squamish Nation. Coffeeand snacks provided!From11:30 am to 1pm. Borrow acopyfromthe library. Free, please notenew date Find outmoreand register at bipl.ca/2026
Saturday, March28
ReachforSKY Movie
Seniors Keeping Youngisshowing ‘Silver Screamers’ followed by adiscussion withfilmmaker Sean Cisterna. At the Community Centre from 1:30 to 4:30pm.
Sunday, March29
Bowen Women’s Golf League Meet andGreet Informative eventforall skilllevelsinterested in women’s
golfprograms:instruction,mentorship, tournament play,& Tuesday/Thursday socialleagueplay. Joinus at the Shed at the Golf Course from3 to 5pm. No registrationnecessary. Sunday, March29
FriendsoftheLibrary AGM
Meetthe Boardandlearnwhat theFriendsare aboutand consider joiningthe Boardor volunteering. In the Library Annex Flem Room starting at 3:30pm.
Tuesday, March31
Drop-in HelpwithCRA& Service Canada at theLibrary Come getone-on-one,individualized help. Find outmore aboutthe benefits,credits, pensions,programs,and services you may be entitled to!Free Tax Filing willalso be available for simpletax situations withlow to modestincome.From 10:30am to 2:30pm. Find outmore at bipl.ca/get-help
Wednesday, April1
Magnificent Derelicts atthe Hearth
Come see worksfromfamed Bowenartist Ron Woodall. Exhibitopens April1 at the Hearth Galleryand runs to April 20.ArtistpARTy Saturday, April4from2 to 4 pm. Wednesday, April1&Friday, April3
SKY Walks
Seniors Keeping Youngmeets at Catholic Church on Miller Road Apr. 1 & Golf Course Apr. 2. Both10:30am.
Thursday, April2
Bowfest AGM
All Islanders welcome to share their pointofviewon Bowfest’s50th year! Thefestival’s annual general meeting takesplacefrom5:30 to 6:30pm at the Community Centre.
Saturday, April4
Men’sShed Meetup
Bowen Island Men’s Shed gathering at Island Pacific School between10:30amand Noon.All agesofmen welcome. Complimentarycoffee/tea andgreat company!
Saturday, April4
Judi Gedye Open House
Come chat aboutislandissues with Councillor Judith Gedye. From 3 to 4pm at Collins Hall, everyone welcome. Saturday, April11
Fix-It Fairatthe Legion
Bring yourbrokenthings! Volunteers will work to repair andmend yourhouseholditems. Fulldetailson Page 8.
Saturday, April11
The Nature ofConversationon Bowen attheLibrary
Free,drop-inpresentation by Sue Ellen Fast in the “If You Love This Island” series. Starts1pm,more at bipl.ca/nature
Sunday, April12
Book Donation MorningattheLibrary
Friendsofthe Library welcome yourdonationsof clean, good conditionused books. They’reespecially seeking novelsand kids books. From 10amuntilbinsfull(Noon latest).
MONDAYS
Meditation Monday’s
Meditations& Buddhist teachingson “Inspiring Solutions for Difficulties”. $12 per classor5 week pass for $50. Everyone is welcome.” At Bowen Island Children’s Centre from 7 to 8 pm,thru May4 (exceptEaster Monday, April6).
THURSDAYS
ThursdayArtGroup
Jointhe Thursday ArtGroup(TAG)atCollins Hallfrom 9:30amto12:30pmtopaintandcreate together.$30 per monthor$10drop-in.Infoatshannonrondeau@shaw.ca
