The tightly knit group which attended the Bowen Island Museum and Archives annual general meeting on Sunday afternoon witnessed some important goings on.
Our long-time volunteer archivist Dorothy Lawson gave her last annual report, as she will be retiring in the fall. She wisely laid out the road ahead, which the historians will have to navigate in order to fill the void that she will leave behind. Dorothy has been a constant and reassuring source of knowledge and experience, a rock, which the historians and the museum have come to depend on for success and for survival.
The historians' society will be experiencing a great amount of change in the immediate future. Long-time treasurer and very valuable member Barry Seims has also resigned from the board of directors. Barry has been the board's treasurer for nearly 11 years and his professionalism and extensive knowledge will be sorely missed. Thankfully he leaves us to pursue happiness and other veins of his own life.
Director Rob Forbes detailed his new plans to give the museum a fresh look and improve opinions of our façade around town. The rather hidden museum will soon be exposed for the treasure it is, with new coats of paint and tamed tree life. The work has already begun, and the museum staff are eagerly preparing for a promising summer.
Beverly Underhill, long-time board president, received the Anne Thompson award along with Barry Seims. Both have shown inspirational dedication of their time and efforts over the years to the Museum and Archives.
Without their dedication the organization wouldn't be where it is today. Lois Meyers Carter poignantly recalled countless events, grant applications, and hours spent in her dedicatory speech and her words certainly rang true.
The staff and directors are hopeful for the coming year, and must continue to embrace change and history as it is made.
Jenelle M Pasiechnik
BI Historians
