PACKED THEATRE FOR BOWEN WATER DISCUSSION PAGE 7
$1.50
inc. GST
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2026
HOW TO PROTECT HUMPBACK WHALES
VOL. 52 NO. 43
PAGE 9
Jeremy Valeriote re-elected MLA in Bowen’s riding LIZ MCDONALD & JENNIFER THUNCHER Squamish Chief
RUNNING IT BACK Jeremy Valeriote won his second consecutive term as MLA for West Vancouver - Sea to Sky (which includes Bowen Island) on Oct. 24. Valeriote will be one of two Green Party MLA’s in the new legislature, joining party leader Emily Lowan in Victoria. / David Buzzard photo
In a night of blue, West Vancouver - Sea to Sky has gone Green again. While much of the province has voted Conservative, Jeremy Valeriote, BC Greens’ candidate, was re-elected as Member of the Legislative Assembly during the Saturday, October 24 Provincial Election. He was one of two Greens elected. BC Green Party leader Emily Lowan won her seat in Saanich North and the Islands. Valeriote was the MLA when the legislature was dissolved. In 2024, he won the riding with 38.19 per cent of the vote. This election, the preliminary vote showed he won with almost 48 per cent of the vote, with all polls reported. Reached by phone, Valeriote said he’s excited to continue the work he’s put in over the last two years. CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
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A2 • bowenislandundercurrent.com
Friday, November 6, 2026
You’re Invited to the Inaugural Council Meeting Please join us for the Inaugural Council Meeting , marking the beginning of the 2026–2030 Council term.
Events All Council meetings are open to the public to attend in person or electronically, unless noted otherwise. November 2, 2026 6:00 pm Inaugral Council Meeting November 9, 2026 1:00 pm Regular Council Meeting
Community members are warmly invited to attend as the Mayor and Councillors take their oaths of office and officially begin their term of service. The inaugural meeting is an opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate the start of a new chapter for Council. Following the meeting, please stay and join us for food and refreshments as we mark the beginning of a new Council term together. We hope you can join us for this very special occasion. Monday, November 2, 2026 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (doors open at 5:30 PM) Bowen Island Community Centre 580 Bowen Island Trunk Road Questions? Contact us at 604-947-4255 or email bim@bimbc.ca.
Share Your View of Bowen Island!
Snug Cove Ramp Rehabilitation Work
BC Ferries will be undertaking rehabilitation work on the vehicle loading ramp at the Snug Cove terminal beginning October 29, 2026. The project is expected to continue through March 1, 2027. The work will involve replacing and refurbishing remaining ramp components that were not included in a similar rehabilitation project completed in 2024. Floor beams within the ramp structure will be removed and replaced to help ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of the terminal. To avoid impacts to ferry service, construction will take place overnight, after the final sailing has departed and before the first sailing arrives each day. BC Ferries advises that the construction methods being used this time are expected to result in less noise than the similar work that took place in 2024.
Read more here: bowenislandmunicipality.ca/2026/10/06/snug-cove-ramprehabilitation-work Questions? Contact BC Ferries at 1-888-223-3779.
We’re inviting local residents of all ages and skill levels to submit highresolution photos showcasing Bowen Island’s landscapes, community and unique character. Selected photos may be featured in municipal reports and publications, with credit whenever possible. Submit your photos here: bowenislandmunicipality.ca/submit-photos/
We're Hiring: Part-Time Custodians
Questions? Sarah Baxter: 604-947-4255 ext. 223 or sbaxter@bimbc.ca. BIM has an immediate vacancy for a permanent, part-time Custodian (21 hours per week). We also have two casual/on-call vacancies, to cover special events and staff absences. The Custodian works primarily at the Community Centre facility, providing warm and friendly support to visitors and renters in addition to regular cleaning and maintenance duties. The Custodian will also perform similar work at other Municipal properties, including (but not limited to) the Firehall, Public Works Yard, and Water Treatment Plant. Find full job details, shift times, and wage information here: bowenislandmunicipality.ca/2026/10/21/were-hiring-part-timecustodians/ PAID ADVERTISEMENT October 30, 2026
Phone: 604-947-4255 Fax: 604-947-0193 Email: bim@bimbc.ca
Bowen Island Municipality 580 Bowen Island Trunk Road Bowen Island, BC, V0N 1G2
Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday to Friday Closed statutory holidays
Bowen Island Municipality
Subscribe to our mailing list bowenislandmunicipality.ca/subscribe
bowenislandundercurrent.com • A3
Friday, October 30, 2026
Bowen RCMP investigating motor vehicle and pedestrian collision ALEX KURIAL Editor RCMP are investigating a collision which took place late Tuesday morning, October 20 involving a motor vehicle and a pedestrian. The incident occurred around 11:15 am at Snug Cove’s main intersection of Bowen Island Trunk Road and Dorman Road, known generally as the Four Corners. First responders attended the scene to treat those involved. Traffic along Trunk Road was redirected for several hours as an investigation into the collision took place. This included the specialized Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service (ICARS) unit
of the RCMP. “Anyone that has information about this collision, or who may have witnessed the incident but has not already spoken with police, is asked to contact the Bowen Island RCMP Detachment at 604-947-0516,” said a statement from Bowen RCMP Cpl. Brad Savage. He added that with the investigation ongoing there will be no further information at this time. RCMP Sea to Sky Victim Services were on Bowen for an open house on Tuesday, October 27 to speak with anyone who witnessed the incident or felt affected by what happened. More information on the Victim Services team is available by calling the local detachment at 604-947-0516.
Police were at the intersection of Bowen Island Trunk Road and Dorman Road investigating the collision for several hours last Tuesday. / Alex Kurial photos
FALL CLEAN-UP 2026 Decals will be available for sale at the Snug Cove General Store from Oct. 24th to Nov. 1st ONLY.
Drop off will be done by appointment ONLY. Once you have 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 Monday, Nov. 2nd at 3:00 PM.
Hazardous Waste and Paint Recycling
Fall Clean-up Days Fees Small Load: $45
NOT Accepted:
Sat. Nov. 7 , 2026 • 10:00 am - 3:00 pm @ Bowen Island Recycling Depot th
No fees to drop off hazardous waste or paint. * MAXIMUM 10 PER HOUSEHOLD * Do not bring in containers or liquids that we cannot identify.
Paints and stains Approximately 5 garbage bags
Medium Load: $90
Flammable Liquids
A limited number of appointments will be made available. Drop off of materials will be inside the BIRD yard from Monday, Nov. 2nd to Saturday Nov. 7th
Hazardous Waste
Approximately 10 garbage bags
• •
Large LEVEL Load: $185
Note: 1 decal per household only.
•
Products that cannot be identified
Or container says
•
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 repellents, disinfectants, and pet products
•
Diesel, propane, and butane fuels
•
Caulking tubes
•
Fertilizer
Liquids only Paint thinners, other solvents, camp fuels or liquid adhesives with the flammable symbol Max container size: Kerosene 9L Other liquids 10L
Domestic Pesticides Only
ABSOLUTELY NO, Paint, Hazardous Waste, Tires or Drywall Check out
The contents of a level pick-up truck load
Mattress or Appliance: $35
•
Consumer pesticides with the poisonous (skull & crossbones) symbol AND “Pest Control Product” registration number (REG #12345 PCP Act) In original containers only. Max container size: 10L
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca
Gasoline
Waste Solutions www.bowenwastesolutions.com
• In approved ULC original containers only Max container size: 25L
Per mattress or appliance
PLEASE NOTE: Non-complying loads are subject to refusal.
Paint Cans
•
Do not bring in cans that have a very 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
P.O. Box 202, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0 604-947-2255
A4 • bowenislandundercurrent.com
Friday, October 30, 2026
VIEWPOINTS
Halloween & beyond Happy Halloween! The big day is upon us and very soon everybody will be heading to the Loop (Lenora, Melmore & Senator too) to see this year’s costumes and snag some treats while celebrating the occasion. Sources say the Goblin Market - one of last year’s biggest hits - will be expanding this time around to offer even more spectacle. Last year Oct. 31 featured a dramatic World Series game between the Dodgers and Blue Jays. Though a Game 7 this year seems unlikely with Milwaukee up 3-1 on Tampa Bay (as of Wednesday afternoon), if the Rays fight back to tie it that ultimate decider would take place Halloween night, adding even more excitement to the evening. Once Halloween is over time always seems to move pretty quick. In less than two weeks it will be Remembrance Day and after that we’ll start seeing winter and Christmas events in the calendar. Light Up Bowen had their AGM earlier this week and we are all looking forward to the annual brightening up of Snug Cove with holiday lights and spirit. A great cure for the increasingly dark days! - Alex Kurial, Editor
Open House dates JUDITH GEDYE Bowen Island Municipality Councillor Due to the island-wide BC Hydro power outage on Saturday, November 7, my open house is cancelled for November. It will resume December 12 (delayed because I did not book the hall before the election!) and then continue on the first Saturday of the month (hopefully with very few exceptions) for the next four years! Thank you, - Judi Gedye THE WRITE STUFF. The Undercurrent encourages reader participation in your community newspaper. You must include your full name and a daytime phone number (for verification only). The editor reserves the right to edit for clarity, legality, brevity and taste. Please limit to under 500 words. HERE’S HOW: To submit a letter to the editor, fax 604-947-0148 or mail it to PO Box 130, Bowen Island, BC, V0N 1G0 or email editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com All Advertising and news copy content are copyright of the Undercurrent Newspaper. All editorial content submitted to the Undercurrent becomes the property of the publication. The Undercurrent is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, art work and photographs.
#103–495 Bowen Trunk Road, PO Box 130, Bowen Island BC, V0N 1G0 Phone: 604.947.2442 Fax: 604.947.0148 bowenislandundercurrent.com DEADLINE for advertising Monday, 4 p.m. DEADLINE for editorial Tuesday 5 p.m. Bowen Island Undercurrent Subscription Rates: Mailed 1 year subscription on Bowen Island: $62.50, including GST. Within Canada: $85 including GST Newsstand (Single Copy) $1.50 per copy, including GST
ISSN 7819-5040
National NewsMedia Council.
EDITOR Alex Kurial editor@bowenisland undercurrent.com
ADVERTISING Tracey Wait ads@bowenisland undercurrent.com
CARTOONIST Ron Woodall
PUBLISHER Sarah Strother publisher@bowenisland undercurrent.com 2011 CCNA
CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2011
The Undercurrent is a member of the National NewsMedia Council of Canada, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please email editor@ bowenislandundercurrent.com or call 604-947-2442. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
bowenislandundercurrent.com • A5
Friday, October 30, 2026
VIEWPOINTS
Letter: Enforcement should build community and honour humanity My partner’s family has been on our beautiful island for more than a decade, but we only became full-time Islanders over the last year, and boy, what a difference it is to fully immerse in a community to feel the responsibility to take care of it, understand it, and improve it. I was surprised when we had our first encounter with our Bowen Island Municipality’s Bylaw Services just before this Thanksgiving that our request for a one week extension to respond because we were meeting our newborn niece and nephew for the first time was ignored. I did not think that such a reasonable request would be denied, not to mention ignored. When we still didn’t hear back from them after the end of day on the original deadline, we replied. I was even more shocked when we realized that even though they didn’t grant our request for an extension, a bylaw officer took action immediately after our reply to set up surveillance just outside of our driveway, so when a friend’s car drove in, he got out of the car to impersonate what seemed like a helpful neighbour. Our friend thought the interaction was so normal that she didn’t mention it to us until my partner got a text that the bylaw team collected the evidence they needed and we should expect “bylaw enforcement actions” on Monday. First of all, when did bylaw enforcement become a process of texting and asking us to call as if they are friends? We also received a text message before the initial email from bylaw enforcement: “Hi [partner’s name], [staff name] from Bowen Island Municipality here. Could you please give me a call?” We were just about to start rock climbing in Squamish and called immediately because we thought a request to call from the municipality meant an emergency, but it wasn’t. Our governments should respect our privacy: As more of our business phone num-
bers are our cell phones and not office receptionists, it is not appropriate to text and call us as if they are our friends. We should be granted extensions when it is Thanksgiving or just in general if we need to seek legal advice, and not have the first interaction before any email being a text or call. I also didn’t expect that a bylaw officer would just camp in their vehicle outside of our driveway. I also think anybody visiting us should not be stopped by an impersonating by-law officer — at least have the courage to tell them that you are a bylaw officer so that they have informed consent in what they say to you. Intriguingly, I actually used to do what the bylaw officers do — I was twice a residence advisor at UBC, both during my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. I loved being a residence advisor because we are both the enforcers, but also the community builders. Our municipality cannot forget that they exist for the community and not against the community. Bylaw enforcement is for balancing interests and maintaining peace, not intimidation or surveillance. When I was a residence advisor, I told all my residents during orientation that UBC has the rule that every resident can only host a boyfriend or girlfriend for a maximum of four nights a month not because they want to tell you how many days you can sleep over, but to give leverage to their roommates to remind them and their guest to be respectful and if not possible, then report to me. I told them I wouldn’t spy on them, because I would love to live my life and build more programming for our community, but if I hear from one of their roommates, then I would need to do something, but that something would start with facilitating conversations instead of terrorizing. Those with power have the choice to remember why they do what they do — They are meant to serve our community. I encourage all of us to understand the values and origins behind our by-laws and use them to support our community, not destroy.
The Friends of the Bowen Island Library’s next book collection day will be held on Sunday, November 1 from 10 am until Noon. Please check your shelves and see if there are any gently used books you would be willing to donate. Without more books, a
pre-Christmas Book Sale won’t be possible. All proceeds made from donated books help our Library provide extra programming and materials not covered by the Municipal Budget. Another collection day will be held on November 15, both at the Library Annex.
HELENA ZHU Letter Writer
Letter: Water Connects Us All and the current path being travelled GREGORY POLLARD Letter Writer Dear Editor, Mayor & Council, Please allow me to publicly commend the three gentlemen, Dr. Peter Ross, Dr. Bob Turner and Mr. Will Husby for their first class presentation and discussion last Saturday, October 24, at the Bowen Theatre. It was a full house attended by many engaged and concerned Bowenites as to the current and future status of Grafton Lake as our small island’s drinking water source for many of us. It was a fantastic and educational meeting of like minded people. I had the opportunity to also attend the following general council meeting on Monday that included a preliminary municipal report on the direction that should be taken moving forward, knowing the lake has high levels of pollutants (6th out of 21 lakes studied) generally caused by human contaminants. This is what I know : Bowen Island Council is determined to allow recreational access to Grafton Lake for swimming, fishing and other water sports. Even though this only benefits the soon to be built 120 home owners surrounding the lake and completely disregards the rest of the Bowen community. There is no foreseeable plan to ever put a fence around the lake to protect it. This is what I suspect: That an agreement with the developers of the Lakelands subdivision not only included the parking lot addition but
also states that the lake remains accessible to anyone buying a lot in the massive subdivision that spans both sides of the road. That further clearcutting and rock blasting of the wetlands area surrounding the lake is a done deal and will continue no matter how much resistance is given. There should not be any reasonable excuse to why our water reservoir is being turned into a recreational lake; especially with the onset of global warming and science based facts proving this to be a very bad idea. The only logical protection for this precious water source is an eight foot chain link fence and bylaw signage restricting access to the water with significant fines if found using the lake. Otherwise you have no control whatsoever! I hope the momentum of the ‘Water Connects Us All’ presentation provides a base for Bowen residents to speak up against the current ‘status quo’ and help get a fence around Grafton Lake and clean up the septic systems in the catchment area as soon as possible instead of spending $100,000 on a report to study the effects of blending recreation and drinking water. This is 2026, this should be unheard of... Cleveland Dam and protected water reservoirs were established in the 1950s! Your voice matters, speak up! Sincerely, - Gregory Pollard
Books needed say Library Friends
Due to planned Hydro outage Nov. 7th Open House is cancelled. See you, Dec 12th. A monthly open house sponsored by Judi Gedye, BIM councillor and Islands Trustee.
A6 • bowenislandundercurrent.com
Friday, October 30, 2026
VIEWPOINTS
A plea to Bowen to brighten up! HILARY BUTLER Bowen Island Rotary Club Drivers, have you had a near miss with a pedestrian or a cyclist in recent weeks? Pedestrians, have you had to leap into the bushes as a car has swept by perilously close to the roadside? Dog walkers, do you sidestep into a driveway when you see car lights approaching, to protect your pet? Cyclists, have you recently avoided a sideswipe from a passing car? It’s likely that all of us are able to answer “Yes” to at least one of these questions. Rain and wind add to the dangers that confront us as winter approaches and driving conditions deteriorate. With an increase in the number of electric bikes on the island, often driven by those for whom speed is the goal, we are shocked when we find them in our headlights. Electric cars that make little sound are also a potential hazard to walkers. At this time of year, we need to watch out, both during the day and at night. What can we do to avoid an accident? Number one, wear something bright on our outerwear. It is unlikely that all of us will go out and buy those attractive yellow vests worn by first responders and other responsible people. In fact most of us seem to prefer black or dark coloured outerwear because that’s cool, right? So what can we do? There are all types of reflec-
tive gear available both online and at local outdoor stores: from full gear safety vests to armbands, sashes, straps to put over your jacket, and even specialised running vests. All this gear is in fluorescent yellow, so highly visible. For your dog, there are tape collars and lights that can be attached to their regular collars. Hats with excellent LED lights are available from Knowledge Network if you donate $125, so why not keep your head warm, keep safe and support a good cause? Whenever I go for a walk in the dusk with or without the dog, this is what I wear. With a minimum of sidewalks, we on Bowen are extremely vulnerable to accidents, so we need to beware. For several years, Bowen Rotary has been running a project Shine Bright at Night on Bowen. Students from Island Pacific School have designed posters that appear at this time of year to remind you of the dangers that we face. Small reflective triangles are available at Cates Pharmacy for a $2 donation. Otherwise, any Rotary member can help you locate one of these triangles. These can be pinned on to raincoats, backpacks and other outerwear. They are not the best way to stay bright at night on Bowen, but they are a good first step and easily available. Please help us protect you and ourselves by attempting to avoid accidents.
Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH www.biuc.ca | 1122 Miller Road
Sunday Worship 10:30 am Rev. Lorraine Ashdown 778-688-2061
FOOD BANK DROP-OFF
OFFICE HOURS WEDNESDAY 10-4 OR BY APPOINTMENT
ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Sunday Sunday Mass Mass at at 10:00 9.30
Contact Angela Powell 604-947-2515
CATES HILL CHAPEL
www.cateshillchapel.com Sunday Worship 10:00 604-947-4260
www.cateshillchapel.com (661 Carter Rd.) 604-947-4260 Sunday Worship(661 10:00 Carter Rd.) Rev. Phil Adkins office@cateshillchapel.com SHIRAT HAYAM (Song of the Sea) BOWEN’S JEWISH COMMUNITY Shabbat Gatherings ~ Holidays Contact aryana.rayne@gmail.com • www.shirathayam.ca
Island Pacific School students designed posters for the Rotary Club’s ‘Shine Bright at Night’ campaign.
QUEEN OF CAPILANO FERRY SCHEDULE UNTIL MARCH 2027
DEPART BOWEN ISLAND
DEPART HORSESHOE BAY
5:15 am - except Sundays 6:15 am 7:30 am 8:45 am 10:00 am 11:15 am 12:35 pm 1:55 pm - except Wed dnesdays 3:15 pm 4:40 pm 6:00 pm 7:15 pm 8:25 pm - except Saturdays 9:30 pm 10:30 pm 11:30 pm
5:45 am 6:50 am 8:05 am 9:20 am - except Wednesdays 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 - except Saturdays 10:00 pm 11:00 pm
Where’s the ferry right now? - live updates at www.bowenferry.ca
SCHEDULE CHANGES ON STATUTORY HOLIDAYS. STAY UP TO DATE AT WWW.BCFERRIES.COM
bowenislandundercurrent.com • A7
Friday, October 30, 2026
Bowen turns out to talk water BOWEN ISLAND CONSERVANCY An almost full Bowen Theatre welcomed local scientists Bob Turner, Will Husby, and Peter Ross on October 24 for Water Connects Us All. Presented by the Bowen Island Conservancy and Raincoast Conservation Foundation, the afternoon drew residents interested in understanding the island’s freshwater and the pressures on its supply. Turner, a geoscientist and former mayor, explained that Bowen’s groundwater and surface water form a connected system. Yet we still lack a comprehensive understanding of how much freshwater the island can reliably supply. “Spoiler alert, we don’t know,” he said. “All our water comes from the sky.” Rain and snow replenish Bowen’s lakes and groundwater, although much of that precipitation runs quickly down our steep slopes to the sea. Some seeps into the ground, filling cracks in bedrock and spaces in sand and gravel. Groundwater returns through springs, sustaining streams and lakes during the dry months, when household demand is highest. Heavy pumping from a productive well can lower the surrounding water table enough to affect neighbouring wells or dry a stream. A well’s productivity alone does not tell us how much water can be drawn sustainably. Understanding the island’s supply is essential to decisions about how much demand it can support through a prolonged drought. Protecting Bowen’s water also means protecting the living systems that help retain and clean it. Husby, a freshwater biologist and longtime science communicator, explained how forests and wetlands perform these functions, supported by the diverse organisms living within them. Forest soils hold water and release it gradually, while wetlands slow its passage and catch sediment. Clearing forest or draining wetlands weakens those functions and removes habitat for the creatures that help keep the watershed healthy. “Even a little wetland is doing work,” Husby said. Small losses across many properties can accumulate, affecting the
watershed we depend on. Longer, hotter droughts put these systems under further pressure. Falling lake levels reduce aquatic habitat and leave less water to dilute pollutants. Ross, a pollution researcher with Raincoast Conservation Foundation, described evidence that human activities are affecting Grafton Lake’s water quality. Pharmaceuticals and sucralose, an artificial sweetener used to trace human wastewater, were among the substances detected during a sampling visit in October 2024. He described the trace findings as a yellow flag. The lake’s overall water quality was assessed as fair, and none of the substances with established drinking water or environmental guidelines exceeded those limits. However, guidelines covered only a small proportion of the contaminants tested. The assessment examined lake water, rather than treated tap water, and a single sampling visit cannot show how conditions vary through the year. Regular monitoring and the use of tracers of human waste will help track performance over time. Ross explained that septic systems cannot remove every chemical sent down a drain. He included himself, as a homeowner with a septic tank, in the responsibility to understand what enters those systems and how to maintain them. He also discussed pollution carried through the atmosphere, including wildfire smoke, and contaminants washed from roads into waterways. With Grafton Lake as a starting point, the afternoon showed why decisions about land and water across Bowen can have consequences beyond a property’s boundaries. Turner called for a freshwater strategy that considers groundwater and surface water together, giving council a firmer basis for planning. That planning also needs to account for the natural systems Husby described and the pollution risks Ross identified. Residents can help by conserving water during dry months and considering how changes on their properties affect the water our neighbours and wildlife depend on. If you weren’t able to attend, you can view a recording of the presentations on the Bowen Island Conservancy’s website.
SIGN UP
Guests at the ‘Water Connects Us All’ event with the Bowen Island Conservancy. / Submitted photo
A8 • bowenislandundercurrent.com
Friday, October 30, 2026
When every second counts: Bowen Islanders learn to save lives EDWARD WACHTMAN Neighbourhood Emergency Program
Response
More than 40 Bowen Islanders gathered at the Fire Hall on Sunday, nearly filling the Emergency Operations Centre, to learn skills that could one day save a neighbour’s life. Led by Amanda Ockeloen and Cynthia Van Hoof Barthel, the CPR/AED workshop emphasized a simple message: when someone suffers cardiac arrest, every second counts. Knowing what to do before emergency responders arrive can save a life. Participants learned three words worth remembering: CHECK, CALL, CARE. Check that the scene is safe and assess the person. Call 911. Then provide care, including CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED) when appropriate. Cynthia explained that heart attack and cardiac arrest are often confusingly used interchangeably. Understanding the
difference can save lives. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked; cardiac arrest occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing it to stop pumping blood effectively. Early AED use can potentially triple a person’s chances of surviving cardiac arrest. Participants were also introduced to two free smartphone applications, PulsePoint and the Canadian Red Cross First Aid app, offering practical emergency guidance. An important discussion centred on neighbours helping neighbours. With more than 30 publicly accessible AEDs across Bowen, knowing where the nearest one is located and who nearby can perform CPR could save a life. The workshop concluded with hands-on practice using CPR training manikins and AED simulators. Funded by the Bowen Island Community Foundation and sponsored by the Bowen Island Health Centre, Bowen Island Municipality, the Bowen Island Fire Department, and the
Participants learning life saving measures at the CPR/AED workshop. Neighbourhood Emergency Response Program (NERP), this was the first of several workshops planned over the next six
Your story starts here
to eight months. Special thanks to Amanda and Cynthia for an excellent workshop.
This Sea to Sky area is such a unique, beautiful place in the world. To be able to have this opportunity at Woodfibre where I can combine what I want to do for work with where I want to be is incredibly rare. Kelly Steeves Dog lover | Outdoorswoman | Head of Engineering Support
Find your story at woodfibrelng.ca/careers
bowenislandundercurrent.com • A9
Friday, October 30, 2026
A humpback was recently struck by a BC Ferries vessel. How are whales being protected in the region? ELANA SHEPERT Vancouver Is Awesome They’ve made a comeback recently. But humpback whales continue to face humancaused threats. On Oct. 18, the BC Ferries vessel, the Queen of Surrey, collided with a humpback whale in the Howe Sound. The incident happened between Grace Point and Keats Island. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans says an investigation is ongoing to determine the status of the humpback. A dead humpback whale was found near the site of the strike on Oct. 26 (see more on Page 10). Humpback whale sightings have increased in Metro Vancouver over the past several years, as have other whale species. Humpback whales reclaimed a feeding spot they historically used, thanks largely to robust conservation efforts, and their numbers are steadily increasing. Fans of marine life continue to post photos and videos of the marine behemoths in the Facebook group Howe Sound and Sea to Sky Wildlife Sightings, showcasing their vast numbers in the area. Recent photos show several of them in the area. Alex Cole, the group’s administrator, wrote about a recent sighting. “It was wonderful to see ‘Grizzly’ BCY1330 off Hutt Island, northwest Bowen today,” he wrote. “One of my goals over the last few
days has been to document and ID as many humpbacks as possible in the area so we can get an idea of who is around and who wasn’t involved in the tragic accident. “Whilst we don’t know which whale was hit the other day, we now know it wasn’t Grizzly who looked in great form feeding away!” While Grizzly continues to swim, it is unknown exactly which whale was struck. Kathleen McCormick also snapped photos of the whale. Cole added that Grizzly was “bubble-net feeding” with another humpback, “Commander” BCY1541, that is in the area. Bubble-net feeding is a highly synchronized hunting strategy where whales dive below schools of fish and blow bubbles to trap them near the surface, according to the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation. What is being done to protect this growing humpback population? The Department of Fisheries and Oceans tells Vancouver Is Awesome that protecting whale populations Canada-wide is a top priority. “That is why the federal government has implemented a broad suite of measures to support the conservation of whale populations, including increasing vessel approach distances, reducing underwater noise from marine traffic, and addressing the risk of entanglement in fishing gear. In addition, this year’s Spring Economic Update included more than $258 million to further protect
Hello Boating Community! We’re wrapping up our 2026 year with the BIYC Annual General Meeting
which will be held at Doc Morgan’s Downstairs. Thursday, November 19, 2026 @ 6:00pm (social/food), 7:00pm start To rsvp please contact membershipbiyc@gmail.com All are welcome. With kind regards, Colin Turnbull, Commodore
One of the Humpback Whales frequenting Howe Sound. / Alex Cole photo whales and the health of their habitats,” the department says in an emailed statement. The DFO adds that BC Ferries is cooperating with its investigation and is working to identify the whale and its condition. “Measures to reduce the risk of vessel disturbances and collisions are regularly reviewed and informed by scientific research, monitoring and engagement with
partners,” the DFO says. The DFO encourages everyone to report possible occurrences of whales being harassed or disturbed, and instances of collision with whales or whale entanglements by calling DFO’s Observe, Record, Report/ Marine Mammal Incident Hotline at 1-800465-4336 or by email at: DFO.ORR-ONS. MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
Water Taxi
Water Taxi
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Proudly Celebrating 48 Years of Trusted Transport for Bowen Island & Howe Sound Cellular: 604-250-2630 Telephone: 604-947-2243 • PRIVATE CHARTERS AVAILABLE • SERVICE TO MANY LOCATIONS IN HOWE SOUND email: cormorantmarine@telus.net web: cormorantwatertaxi.com
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Friday, October 30, 2026
Nicolas Jimenez out as B.C. Ferries CEO MICHAEL JOHN LO Times Colonist Nicolas Jimenez is out as CEO of B.C. Ferries in a sudden “leadership transition” initiated by the B.C. Ferries board on Tuesday. Jimenez’s ouster was announced in a statement by board chair Cathy McLay. Brian Anderson, the ferry company’s vice president of strategy and planning, has been appointed interim CEO. Dallyn Willis, the company’s executive vice-president and chief financial officer, will assume Anderson’s responsibilities. McLay said Willis will also lead a review of B.C. Ferries to “address growing demands on the system and deliver safe, reliable services for customers and coastal communities.” No reason for Jimenez’s departure was given. “The Board thanks outgoing CEO Nicolas Jimenez for his contributions to BC Ferries and wishes him success in his future endeavours,” said McLay. Jimenez took on the top job at B.C. Ferries
Dead humpback whale spotted near the Sunshine Coast
in 2023 after spending nearly two decades in senior roles at ICBC, most recently as CEO. Jimenez became ICBC’s CEO in 2018, the same year that David Eby — then serving as B.C.’s attorney general under John Horgan — promised major reforms at that organization. He became CEO of B.C. Ferries after Mark Collins was ousted from the position shortly after former NDP cabinet minister Joy MacPhail was appointed chair of B.C. Ferries’ board. Eric McNeely, president of the B.C. Ferry and Marine Workers’ Union, said he’s “cautiously optimistic” that Jimenez’s departure could mean more change in the company’s upper management and a more stable workforce. About 4,500 unionized workers at B.C. Ferries have gone about a year without a collective agreement, he said. “Maybe this will bring some labour peace to a system that is challenged with decisions that have been made.” McNeely said “the timeline was a bit of a surprise,” but the union had anticipated Jimenez’s departure for some time, and that a review of B.C. Ferries was on the horizon.
SANDRA THOMAS Coast Reporter The body of a dead humpback whale found off Carmella Point is believed to be that of the whale struck by a BC Ferries vessel, Oct. 18. According to Marine Education & Under Jimenez, the company embarked on procuring a new fleet of major vessels that will be built by a Chinese shipyard, a decision that drew criticism from provincial and national politicians. Jimenez defended the decision at the time, saying the state-run shipyard in China’s Shandong province was selected after a global procurement process and his main focus was to get a good deal. The cost of the vessels has not been disclosed by B.C. Ferries over concerns that it could compromise its ability to get good deals on future procurement. B.C. Ferries has not been a Crown corporation since 2003, but receives major funding from the province. The company’s
Research Society, a dead humpback whale has been sighted by the Grace Islands, the location of the collision by the Queen of Surrey. The society says the first known sighting was the evening of Oct. 26. In a Facebook post, the society said necropsy is anticipated but it is believed that external injuries indicate a vessel strike. sole voting shareholder is the B.C. Ferry Authority. Four of the authority’s nine directors are provincial appointments, with the rest being a mix of local government and union representatives.
Nicolas Jimenez is out as BC Ferries CEO. / Darren Stone photo
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THE COAST MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL IS BACK Now in its fourth season, the festival is bringing together world-class ski films, amazing prizes, and an audience that lives for snow, stoke, and story. The evening’s feature film, Inside the Season, comes from HEAD Freeskiing & Jeff Thomas Creative and follows the HEAD & TYROLIA global freeski team through an eventful winter around the world. From early-season preparation and road trips to storm cycles, team hangs and unforgettable days in the mountains, the film mixes incredible ski action with a behind-the-scenes look at everything that goes into a season on the move.
FEATURE: INSIDE THE SEASON SHORTS: THE WAY OF SNOW | YUKI NO MICHI APRÈS BABY: CASSIE SHARPE
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The night also features The Way of Snow | Yuki no Michi, a short film from Japan featuring two Whistler athletes and a distinctly different perspective on life in the mountains. Plus, catch Après Baby: Cassie Sharpe, profiling the Canadian Olympic halfpipe gold and silver medalist on her return to halfpipe after becoming a mother, confronting injury, fear and redefining what it means to win.
A12 • bowenislandundercurrent.com
Friday, October 30, 2026
Valeriote heads back to Victoria MLA CONFIDENT HE CAN WORK WITH NEW GOVERNMENT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
“Just overjoyed that people put their confidence in me again after two short years of of trying to get things done for the riding, and people saw that I was putting my best effort, and then decided to send me back, and I’m really grateful for that,” said Valeriote, from Howe Sound Inn and Brewing where he was celebrating with family, friends and supporters. Valeriote campaigned on affordability, transportation and health care in the region. In 2024, he was the first BC Green to land a seat on the mainland. This time, he was up against Conservative Party of BC candidate Ayla Dumais, BC NDP candidate Michelle Livaja and CentreBC’s Dan Wood. It was close at times early in the night, but ultimately Dumais came in second, with about 38 per cent of the votes. Livaja has 10 per cent of the ballots counted, while Wood has about 4 per cent of votes, landing in fourth place. The Conservatives look to have handily formed provincial government, with 48 per cent of the preliminary vote, with most polls having reported. This is a massive upset for the NDP.
Valeriote said he wasn’t daunted by the Conservatives winning. “I think there’s a lot of goodwill, and this is where my nonpartisan nature — I’ve worked closely with Conservatives. I’ve worked with the NDP in the last two years and developed some good relationships. And there’s a lot more common ground than actually what separates us,” said Valeriote. “So, I’ve already worked with Lorne Doerkson on the rail corridor, I mean, it’s a priority for him. We can continue. The Conservatives, I’m hoping, will be quite fair-minded about what the riding needs, including regional transit, and be able to make it happen. And I think we will continue to work with them and make sure we’re asking our questions. Being an opposition party that holds them to account,” he said. He said though the memorandum of understanding for regional transit was with the NDP, he doesn’t think that will set the plan back. “I think that that crosses governments. It’s with the Ministry of Transportation, and they’ve made the acknowledgement that it’s needed, and that we need to imple-
Jeremy Valeriote at Howe Sound Inn & Brewing in Squamish on election night. / David Buzzard photo ment it. And I think that work will carry on regardless.” Valeriote said he would next thank his volunteers and supporters and then take
a few days with family and then get back to work. The final results will be known on Nov. 6, according to Elections BC.
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Friday, October 30, 2026
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Friday, October 30 The Rocky Horror Picture Show Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, madness, and mayhem as we bring The Rocky Horror Picture Show to the big screen in the Bowen Theatre! Costumes HIGHLY recommended! Doors open at 7 pm w/ the film at 8. Visit Bowen Rec for prop details and to buy tickets. 19+ event. Friday, October 30 Halloween Dance at the Legion Grab your costumes and round up your friends for a Halloween Dance with country rock band Pistol Whip the Devil from Vancouver! Doors open at 8 pm, tickets $25 and available at the Legion or online at zeffy.com Saturday, October 31 Halloween Night at the Loop One of Bowen’s best traditions! Lenora, Melmore and Senator transform into a haunted escape for this special night. Come trick or treat and take part in spooky activities spanning the entire neighbourhood! Starts around 5 pm. Saturday, October 31 Halloween Dance at the Pub The Bowen Pub is scared to present... The Pub of the Dead! Prizes for best costume and group costume. DJ Rube will be spinning tracks from 8 pm until the Witching Hour... Tickets $20 and available at the Pub. Sunday, November 1 Book Donation Morning The Friends of the Bowen Island Library will be accepting gently used books at the Library Annex from 10 am to Noon. Thru November 6 Vaccine Clinics at the Health Centre
Flu & Covid immunization clinic for 3 weeks Monday to Friday starting October 26. By appointment or drop-in (space not guaranteed). Appointments call 604-947-9986. Mon 9:15-4, Tue 9:15-6:45, Wed 9:15-4 Thu 9:15-7:30, Fri 9:15-5:45 Saturday, November 7 French Connections at the Library Drop in and join us to practice your conversational French, and get to know other French language learners on Bowen Island! Free, 10:15 to 11:15 am. bipl.ca/French Sunday, November 8 BIHPA AGM Bowen Island Heritage and Preservation Association welcomes you to their Annual General Meeting. Cottage #20 in Davies Orchard at 1 pm. Call 778-245-9951 for more info. Monday, November 9 Rotary Speaker Series Matthew van der Giessen will be discussing the growth of the Green Burial movement, its contribution and its adaptation to Bowen Island’s unique ecological landscape. All are welcome to this event at 7:30 pm at Artisan Eats. Tuesday, November 10 Speak the Spark Storytelling True stories told by your Bowen neighbours! Theme: “It seemed like a good idea…” Bowen Library Annex at 7 pm, doors open at 6:30. Saturday, November 14 Bowen Mudder Grab your costumes and your friends for this fun, all-ages obstacle course race! Tackle either the 2K or 5K course, each starting and ending at Island Pacific School. Starts 10 am,
post race fun includes food truck, sauna and music. Wednesday, November 18 Happy Wednesdays Meditation The Healing Power of Meditation, Buddhist teachings and meditations to heal the mind and body: From 7 to 8 pm at the Bowen Island Community Centre. $12 drop-in, learn more at www.meditateinvancouver.org Thursday, November 19 Bowen Island Yacht Club AGM Hello boaters! Come learn about our exciting year on the water! Round Bowen Race, S/V Brigadier and more! Social and food at 6 pm downstairs at Doc Morgan’s, meeting starts at 7. Please rsvp to membershipbiyc@gmail.com WEDNESDAYS Family Storytime at the Library Drop in for a free program of stories and songs! From 10:30 to 11 am in the Library Annex. Ages 0-6 with caregivers. No registration required. Families are welcome to stay until 11:30 am and socialize, read books, and hang out! THURSDAYS Thursday Art Group TAG (Thursday Art Group) meets every Thursday at Collins Hall from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. Come join a group of self-directed artists working in different mediums in a supportive environment. Monthly $35, drop-in $12, first drop-in free. Info at jilly.watson@shaw.ca FRIDAYS Legion Dinners Friday dinners are back for fall at the Legion. Doors open at 5:30 pm. Members can purchase tickets every Thursday, non-members welcome to buy tickets Friday if not sold out.
Happy Hal loween
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