Squamish Chief March 10, 2022

VERSIONS

32 SHE’S GOLDEN!

Women in business

Check out our special section to learn more about Squamish’s many powerful local entrepreneurs

A 307-UNIT DEVELOPMENT PROPOSED FOR TANTALUS

Target Real Estate Development is seeking to build two six-storey buildings, plus one five-storey building

STEVEN CHUA steven@squamishchief.com

Anew 307-residential-unit development has been proposed for 40480 Tantalus Road, right by Fire Hall 2. On March 8, staff presented council with the proposal for feedback.

The request is to rezone the lands from RL-2 rural residential lands to a CD mixed-use comprehensive development zone.

This would allow the proponent, Target Real Estate Development Co., to build residential rental units, condos, space for retailers, restaurants and offices, and a daycare. Target’s proposal has appeared in council before. Previously, the project was denied first reading on Dec. 1, 2020. It has since been changed, and the developer is asking council for comments before it makes a go at trying to pass first reading again.

In terms of space, there would be 2,500 square feet for a childcare facility, about 35,000 square feet for retail and restaurant space and about 32,000 square feet for office space.

Development is proposed to be divided into three phases.

Phase 1 would be a six-storey building. Its first two storeys would be employment space, and the upper four storeys would be 104 purpose-built rental residential units. These residential units are intended to be leased at a mix of market and affordable rates.

Phase 2 would be a second six-storey building with another 104 residential units, however these would be for sale.

TANTALUS: Continued on 5

Mollie Jepsen earned Canada’s first medal at the Paralympic Games in Beijing

PHOTO BY DAWNE KALENUIK (@DAWNEANDZOE ON TIKTOK)

SQUAMISH VIBES: Young Zoe enjoys the sun during a recent visit to the Sea to Sky Gondola with her mom, Dawne Kalenuik.

CONGRATULATIONS FROM SUTTON WEST COAS Con gr at ulations Je nni fe r! 8

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celebration of International Women’s we what an achievement this is for a young woman who entered the Vancouver estate in 1991. Jennifer’s success has been built on her and unwavering commitment to her client’s best interests. 1

TON COAST REALT Y!

SKI JUMPING & NORDIC CO MBINED EV ENT S

The FIS Continental Cup Sk i Jumping and Nordic Combined events run from March 17-19 with a crescendo 'festive sk i day' on March 19 that ties a sk i jumping event with an onsite DJ, a barbeque & local craft beer.

The cross countr y sk i, snowshoe and tobogganing trails will all be open to maximize festive fun for all. Any Whistler Olympic Park day ticket grants access to the ski jumping events.

More Events to Enjoy this March!

Between March 20-27 at Whistler Olympic Park , the Black Tusk Nordic Events Society is also hosting the Canadian Cross Countr y Ski Nationals and the US Super Tour Finals. These high level events will bring in a thousand of the best cross countr y sk iers from Canada and the USA, of which have recently come home from the Winter Olympic in Beijing WE NEED YOU!

Black Tusk Nordic Events Society focuses on encouraging spor t excellence to the World Championship and Olympic levels by hosting FIS sanctioned Cross Countr y, Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined competitions at Whistler Olympic Park They are committed to fostering community and driving economic oppor tunities for Nordic spor ts in the Sea to Sky corridor of British Columbia, Canada. Between now and 2023, they will host a variety of events in preparation for the 2023 FIS Nordic Junior/U23 World Ski Championships www.blacktusknordic.com

stop waitin g, start living

A star-studded roster of World Class international sk i jumping athletes, including newly awarded Olympic Bronze Medalist, Alexandria Loutitt.

HUNTER PLACE PROJECT PASSES THIRD READING

The five-building complex has jumped through the most significant set of hurdles to approval

STEVEN CHUA steven@squamishchief.com

Aproposal for a significant development at Hunter Place has received third reading, meaning the project has passed the biggest hurdle to rezoning.

On March 1, a public hearing was held in council chambers, where some residents expressed concerns.

Afterwards, council deliberated on the matter and then voted unanimously in favour of giving third reading to a rezoning application for 1100, 1120, and 1140 Hunter Place, just behind Nesters Market.

The proponent, Hunter Place Developments, which is spearheaded by Paul and Mike Bosa, is separate from Bosa

Properties and is not part of the Bosa development family.

At stake is a proposal to change a split-zoned C-4 and I-1 commercial and light industrial land into a CD-99, or comprehensive development zone. Should the proposed rezoning become a reality, it would make way for the creation of a five-building complex — each building at six storeys — that would include a mix of condo units and employment space for the area.

There would be 5,895 square metres — 63,461 square feet — of commercial floor space.

It would be accompanied by 274 residential parking spaces and 121 commercial parking spots. Finally, there would be close to 600 bike parking spaces.

During the meeting, only a handful of people spoke either in person or remotely via phone or webconference.

One was a property owner at the east end of Pemberton Avenue.

Allan Barr, whose business is in that area, said he was concerned with how the development would interface with neighbouring properties on Pemberton Avenue.

Barr said it was difficult for vehicles as large as a pickup truck to make a turnaround at the end of that road.

“Commercial transport vehicles come down…and they don’t get to know they’re in trouble until they get up and over the tracks,” said Barr. “And then they realize, ‘Oh my gosh, what are we gonna do now?’ and they can’t back up.”

He said those vehicles then wind up needing help turning around, and this can result in blockages that can last an hour.

“It just takes one person to shut that whole community down; the whole neighborhood shuts down with that,” Barr said.

He asked that a condition of third reading include a connector between Hunter Place and Pemberton Avenue.

Peter Gordon of Cascadia Consulting spoke about the problems highlighted by Barr.

He also advocated for a connection between the two streets.

HUNTER: Continued on 5

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Let’schatabout bats.Thisisacrash course on the biology of our local bats,their habits,habitat,conser vation, and howbat biologists study bats.Suitable forall ages

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Spring Break BookmarkContest ‘I Love Libraries’

Monday, March14, until Friday, March25, 2022

Your freshly renovatedlibrary needs young,local artists to help create fun bookmarks forpatrons! Colour,paint, draw,write –whateveryou like Pick up an entryform at the librarystarting Monday,March 14.

PHOTO VIA DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH CHART

A rendering of the proposed Hunter Place development.

Again, the first two storeys would be employment space.

The third and final phase would comprise a five-storey building with 99 residential units for sale.

In total, there are expected to be 691 parking spaces, with proposals for parkades under the buildings, as well as on-surface parking.

All in all, estimates show the anticipated residential population would be 553 people, between the mix of studio, and one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

There are expected to be 203 people working in the area. This means the total amount of people either living or working in the development would total 706.

About $100,000 worth of public art installations is proposed for the development.

Coun. Doug Race said that the height

HUNTER: Continued from 4

“We don’t intend to stand in the way of the development or stymie it in any way. But we feel that we need to be a part [of] the [land development agreement] process,” Gordon said.

He referenced a written submission that he sent to council, which called for the land development agreement to require the proponent to grant the District of Squamish a registered two way public access road right of way over their land from Hunter Place to Pemberton Avenue.

Gordon’s written submission also asked that the agreement include a requirement for the developer to ensure there is continuous unimpeded vehicular access for other landowners on Pemberton Avenue during construction, among other things.

However, in a staff report, municipal bureaucrats said that a new road connecting Hunter Place and Pemberton Avenue was not needed.

“The Hunter Place development can be designed to mitigate its impact on Pemberton Avenue by ensuring that all three phases of development can access

of the development was an issue for him.

“I’m still concerned about the height,” said Race.

“We’re sort of establishing with this proposal a new standard on Tantalus — and whether we really want to go quite that high.”

He also noted that there was a potential opportunity for the District’s newly-formed housing society to acquire property.

“Anything beyond four storeys here is negotiable,” said Race. “In return for density, I think our housing society is looking for fee-simple units. And I’ll just leave that comment with staff.”

He also said traffic was a potential issue in the area.

Mayor Karen Elliott said she had an issue with how the development connected with a nearby pathway.

“Connection of the corridor trail through the parking lot — like the middle of the parking lot — and then through the middle of development is

weird and dangerous,” said Elliott. “So I’d rather see it go to one end of the building and just have an entrance on one side and cyclists and pedestrians can have the other side.”

This would especially be an issue for children.

“I’m not sure where the connection to the corridor would go,” said Elliott. “But it would be weird to send your kids through the middle of a parking lot. If you’re trying to create independence, that would make me, as a parent, nervous.”

She said some consideration needed to be given to the nearby single-family home lots.

Coun. Eric Andersen advocated for space that could be used for ball sports.

“I think we need to give some consideration to this, and wonder whether we might entertain that,” said Andersen. “And that would imply some adjustments to the proposed picnic plaza, a couple of trees there. So my

GOT NEWS?

Email your news tip or story idea to: jthuncher @squamishchief.com steven @squamishchief.com

question is, and maybe it really is the suggestion…is whether we could explore an opportunity to incorporate a small playing field for youth in that park area?”

He also noted that the developer had proposed public art celebrating Squamish’s past, but wondered why there couldn’t be some work to celebrate the town’s future.

The selection and tendering process for the art should be in collaboration with the Squamish Arts Council, he said.

Coun. John French noted that the childcare facility was proposed for Phase 3, but that would take too long. He said it would be best to at least have it in by Phase 2.

“We need those daycare spaces now, or as soon as possible,” he said.

The proponent and staff will make adjustments to the project based on the feedback and then bring it back before council at a future date.

and egress from Hunter Place exclusively,” reads the report. “Staff is confident that this development will not drive the need for an alternative connection. Any consideration of an alternative access is outside of the scope of this application and would require council defeat of this rezoning and negotiate a land acquisition to pursue an alternative connection.”

Another speaker at the hearing questioned why the proposed daycare was being pushed all the way to the later phases of construction.

He noted it would take years for parents who moved after completion of the first phase to have childcare in that area. Staff and council said that pushing the childcare facility to later stretches of the development’s phasing would allow for the creation of a childcare centre that is three times the size of what’s required by the Community Care Act.

There were also 16 pages of written correspondence regarding the project attached to council’s agenda, with a number of writers expressing concern about how the development would affect the area.

One submission, from Bob Brant, asked

that no approvals for any of these lot projects be given until a District-wide traffic master plan is completed.

Not all feedback expressed concerns, however.

One submission, from Bruce Jung, spoke in favour of the development.

“I live in Squamish and commute from my house in the Highlands to Vancouver for work,” he wrote. “I want to show my support as a local resident for this project. I commute to Vancouver to support my family because there is just a lack of office space here in our community. I see so many benefits to our local economy, less commuting and time with my own family if there was more office space available for small business owners like myself.”

All members of council expressed support for the project.

Coun. Eric Andersen voted in favour of the project, but noted the municipality should pay attention to Barr’s comments.

“I’m for some language or conditions, provisions, in the servicing agreement to address the construction management issues that will arise with respect to access for the neighbours,” said Andersen. “And I’m confident that staff has heard this

issue, but we do need some security here and perhaps some language can be devised in that servicing agreement.”

Coun. Chris Pettingill said he was particularly pleased about the no-gas covenant, which he said would help address climate change.

Support was also given by Coun. John French, who praised how co-operative the developer has been during the process.

“It provides us with another muchneeded daycare space along with a few more housing units that will be priced appropriately for early childhood educators and for those in entry-level jobs,” said French. “It also furthers the objective of making the downtown area walkable and bike-friendly.”

Mayor Karen Elliott also supported the project, but took note of the challenges being faced by the neighbouring properties.

“I am mindful that we potentially have signage and some work to potentially deal with the neighbour to the east on the encroachment issues in the short term,” said Elliott.

“There’s no reason we couldn’t go down there and see what we can do to ameliorate that situation.”

MOTOR VEHICLE RESTRICTIONS COMING TO UPPER SQUAMISH

The provincial order, which goes into effect on March 21, aims to protect sensitive floodplain areas

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

To preserve First Nations archaeological sites and protect sensitive habitat, recreational vehicle use is being restricted in Upper Squamish.

Recreation Sites and Trails, a branch of the provincial Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, is announcing that as of March 21, motorized vehicles will not be allowed on the floodplain and riparian areas of the Squamish, Ashlu and Elaho river valleys.

“The purpose of this order is to protect the Sk w x wú7mesh Úxwumixw [Squamish Nation] archaeological sites and cultural values and to protect critical floodplain wildlife habitat in accordance with the recommendations of the Squamish Valley Recreation Management Plan,” reads the notice.

That plan was commissioned by Recreation Sites and Trails in 2017, to deal with the many issues facing the increasingly busy Upper Squamish area.

This restriction was one of the recommendations of the plan.

“This important step taken by the province is a necessary one,” said Nation Spokesperson Wilson Williams (Sxwíxwtn). “The Upper Squamish River basin has great cultural, archeological, and environmental significance for our people. We need to ensure that access is restricted to preserve this sacred space and critical fish spawning and wildlife habitat for our Nation and the generations of Sk w x wú7mesh still to come.”

HABITAT VALUES

“Why it’s necessary is we’ve seen an uptick

in the last two years or so, maybe since the beginning of COVID, where we’ve seen a dramatic increase in recreation, but we’ve also seen a really big increase in the interest in overlanding or off-roading, beyond just on rough roads and tracks,” said district recreation officer Alistair McCrone.

“[They are] actually going onto the sandbars, driving around going into the river etc. with more specialized vehicles than you’d normally see.”

Squamish River floodplain is an extremely significant habitat for salmon, birds and grizzly bears and other animals that feed

basically intact in all of the southwestern coast of B.C., the Lillooet River and the Squamish River; both are virtually intact. They’re very unique habitats. And that’s important. This regulation is going into effect to protect extremely limited habitat.”

He noted that in the spring forage when much of the valley is covered in snow, the floodplain supplies food for upwards of 50 grizzly bears and 100-odd black bears, as well as for elk and moose.

The regulation was developed through extensive consultation, according to McCrone.

He noted he is still accepting public feedback on this order. (Email him at alistair.mccrone@gov.bc.ca.)

The restriction is intended to go into effect 12 months a year, and it is a legally binding order.

It applies to any recreational motorized vehicle that does not require human power to move, though it does not apply to police, search and rescue vehicles, or boats. The vehicle does not have to be operating to violate the order. It applies whether parked or moving, McCrone said.

The map shows the areas impacted. Signage will be in place to make it clear what areas are impacted.

It does not impact the existing camping sites and the road uphill of the floodplain. While violating the order is worth a $115 ticket, McCrone said there will be a period of education first before those are issued.

“So that people are aware of this before we start coming down with writing tickets,” he said.

Clint Goyette, who owns Valley Fishing Guides, which operates in the Squamish Valley, said it is a restriction he is happy to see being implemented.

He said he has personally seen folks on quads, in Jeeps and 4X4s going through salmon streams, he said.

“People have been driving on the floodplain for quite some time now and it’s just gotten a lot worse,” he said. “There just seems to be a lot more sort of ignorance out there with regards to fish habitat and wildlife habitat and the use of vehicles in that habitat.”

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION MOTORIZED ACCESS RESTRICTION-Upper Squamish River

Ministry of FLNRO, Recreation Sites and Trails Branch is notifying the public of the enactment of a motorized use restriction under Section 58 (1)(b) of the Forest and Range Practices Act.

a proposed motorized use

This order is in effect as of March 21, 2022 @ 12:01 am

As of March 21st 2022 motorized use will be restricted within the area indicated on the attached map and known as the floodplain and riparian areas within the Squamish, Ashlu, and Elaho River valleys, the unauthorized and/or recreational use of motorized vehicles outside the designated roads shown on the attached map will be prohibited and is an offence.

This order is effect between the dates January 1st to December 31st (ie. All year)

The purpose of this order is to protect sensitive fish species and spawning habitat, to protect Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw archaeological sites and cultural values, and to protect critical floodplain wildlife habitat in accordance with the recommendations of the Squamish Valley Recreation Management Plan.

For more information contact: District Recreation Officer Alistair McCrone alistair.mccrone@gov.bc.ca

PHOTO COURTESY ALISTAIR MCCRONE The red area shows the restricted zones.

TALKS BREAK DOWN BETWEEN UNIFOR AND TRANSIT COMPANY

Transit

workers in the Sea to Sky — including Squamish —have been on strike since Jan. 29

THE SQUAMISH CHIEF STAFF

Squamish residents who use public transit are still faced with the prospect of having no buses operating in town, six weeks after the strike began.

On Feb. 25, the parent company of the corporations that employ Sea to Sky transit workers announced that talks have broken down.

Pacific Western Transportation issued a news release that said Whistler Transit Ltd. and Diversified Transportation met with Unifor Local 114 on Feb. 24.

“The Company presented an offer of settlement that included fully retroactive pay increases back to 2020 and an increase to the wages for all employees in each year of the agreement, as well as providing full benefits for all employees within the term of the agreement,” reads the news release.

“Unfortunately, the Union rejected the offer. They did not present a counterproposal and declined to present the offer to their members for a vote. Whistler Transit Ltd. and Diversified Transportation are disappointed in their decision and it’s the Company’s opinion that the union’s refusal to move off of their initial offer of nearly a year ago represents a lack of earnest in bargaining for a reasonable deal.”

On the other hand, Unifor’s western regional director, Gavin McGarrigle, told Pique Newsmagazine the union was “disappointed” with the offer PWT put on the table, claiming the proposed wage increase remained below Canada’s 2021 current inflation rate of 5.1 per cent.

“Not much changed with the wage offer we saw this week, if at all, from what we saw last

January,” he said. “Bargaining is about identifying the issues and really rolling up your sleeves to get it done and what we saw this week was unfortunately a seriously inadequate offer from the employer, a lot of game-playing, and no willingness to really

get to a deal. It’s very unfortunate. We were expecting a lot more.”

Transit workers went on strike on Jan. 29, citing problems with concern wages, benefits and job security, particularly in light of the high cost of living in the Sea to Sky Corridor.

Unifor has said the pay gap between Sea to Sky and Metro Vancouver transit works is $2.60 per hour for drivers and $6 per hour for cleaners, not including the gap in benefits and pension.

-With files from Pique Newsmagazine

WorkBC connects people to opportunities and helps people with disabilities overcome barriers. Get personalizedtools and supportsto succeed at WorkBC.ca/FindYourPlace. Plus, get one-on-one job support at your local WorkBC centre.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Squamish buses have not been running for six weeks now, due to the strike.

DISTRIC TOFSQUAMISH

DROP-IN CHATWITH THE MAYOR

Squamish CommunityHousing Society

Wednesday, March16from12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Municipal Hall -37955 Second Avenue

Thereisanurgentneed forstable,secureand affordable housing in Squamish, and the Distric t has established the Squamish Community Housing Societytohelp create solutions

MARINE ACCESS RE VIE W

Surveys close March 13

Please join MayorK aren Elliott,Acting MayorJenna Stoner and local non-profit par tners to learnand ask questions about the Squamish CommunityHousing Society and its goal to increase affordable housing options across the community. This eventisopen to anyone interested in learning moreabout affordable housing,the boardmember and staff hiring and recruitmentprocess,and engaging in thoughtful dialogue on this complexand impor tanttopic

This is Food Waste Ac tion Week!

Did youk nowthat63% of the food Canadians throw awayeach year could have been eaten? This costs the average Canadian household $1,100 per year.Do youhaveahousehold plan to reduceyour food waste?

Fortips check out lovefoodhatewaste.ca or download the Squamish Curbside App.

WHAT’SHAPPENING IN REC

SPRING BREAK CAMPS

BEGIN MARCH14

TheDistric tofSquamish is reviewing marine access needs, priorities and recommendations forenhanced ocean access, safetyand enjoymentfor all,while protec ting coastal cultures, shorelines and habitats.The review includes community, business,and industr yocean access infrastruc tureand amenities along the Mamquam Blind Channel as well as the Cattermole Slough. Aboatlaunch special study will exploreinterim and long-termneeds and options within the community.

Shareyour perspec tives and marine needs in one of two communitysur veys and online mapping tool Thesur veys are open until March13, 2022

LetsTalkS

COVID -19 INFORMATION

Masks arestill required in all common spaces within indoor facilities,including lobbies, washrooms and ac tivityrooms,for those aged 5 and older

Proof of vaccination remains arequirement formost recreation programs and ac tivities in line with Provincial requirements.For adetailed list of programs and events whereproof of vaccination still applies,visit squamish.ca/rec

Stay up -to- date on restric tions and safety measures at gov.bc.ca/ covid19

AB.C. Vaccine Card is required to showproof of vaccine.Get the cardat gov.bc.ca/VaccineCard.

COVID -19 Facilities Updates

Masks aremandatory in common areas and wherepublic ser vices areprovided at municipal buildings

a

INFRASTRUC TURE IMPROVEMENTSIMPAC TS

Mamquam Road Upgrades -Sidewalk and bike path improvements

Time frame: work got under waythis week and is anticipatedtobecompletebyJune

Impac ts: Please expec tparking disruptions (some parking will alwaysbeavailable), minor traffic disruptions,and construc tion noise squamish.ca/mamquam

Ready forspring break? Just afew spots remain in our spring break camps fork ids aged 5.5 to 12. Daily drop -in, single -day and week-long camps begin March14.

Register at squamish.ca/rec

SENIORS BUS TRIP:DEEPCOVE MARCH15

Deep Cove is abeautiful seaside village at the far easternedge of Nor th Vancouver.I t’s awonder ful placefor walks,hikes,k ayak ing and paddle boarding.The village’s downtown consists of asingle street lined with restaurants, an icecream parlour or two, and coffeeshops ser ving the village’s famous doughnuts.The bus leavesat10a.m.

Cost: $12

SPRING PROGRAMS ARE COMING SOON

Save the date!Squamish Recreation Services spring programs will be available online beginning Monday, March21. Browseour range of programs and ac tivities forall ages and abilities and register foryour favourites beginning Wednesday, March23at8a.m. at squamish.ca/rec

squamish.c a/rec

PU BL IC HEARING NO TICE

Tuesday, March15, 2022 at 6p.m.

WHAT’SPROPOSED:

WAYS TO PARTICIPATEINA PUBLIC HEARING

Rezoning from LightIndustrial to CreativeMixed UseDistric t

PROPOSED BYL AW: Distric tofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011

AmendmentBylaw(37781 &37799 Second Ave) No.2864, 2021

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS:

To rezone the subjectproper ty from LightIndustrial (I-1) to Creative MixedUse District(MUD -2) to allowfor the developmentofafour storey mixed use building,including employmentspaceonthe first and second storey and 20 apar tmentdwelling units on the thirdand four th storey

AFFEC TED LANDS:

37799 Second Avenue,Squamish, B.C. 37781 Second Avenue,Squamish, B.C.

37799 37781

VANCOUVERSTREET

HOWTOVIEWTHE PROPOSED REZONING

Acopyofthe proposed bylawand relatedinformation thathas been or maybeconsidered by the Council maybeinspec tedonline or at Municipal Hall

• squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings

•37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, from March4toMarch 15, 2022 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding statutor yholidays.

Questions? Contac tthe Planning Depar tment: 604.815.5002

Allsubmissions will form par tofthe public record. Council will not consider submissions received afterthe close of the Public Hearing

This is the second of twonotices of Public Hearing.Dated this 10th dayof March2022 at Squamish, British Columbia.

In Writing

Persons who believe thattheir interest in proper ty is affec tedbythe proposed Rezoning will have an oppor tunitytobeheardand to presentwritten submissions forthe Public Hearing.

Deliver awritten submission to hearing@squamish.ca, or drop off to the General Manager of CorporateSer vices at Municipal Hall before4:30 p.m. on the date of the Public Hearing

Written submissions arestrongly encouraged to be made prior to the Public Hearing

If technical issues occur foraperson during the Hearing, submissions maybemade by emailing hearing@squamish.ca and staff will distributetoCouncil and make available on the website. Forthose par ticipating via telephone or elec tronically,the Distric t is encouraging written submissions to be made as well

Elec tronic Participation

Participate elec tronically through the use of the WebEx platform by visiting squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings Instruc tion forpar ticipation in the WebEx vir tual Public Hearing can be found at thatsite.

Visit squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings in advanceof the scheduled Public Hearing time for:

•Instruc tions on howtoset up WebEx and howtolog in;

•How toget on the speakers’list;

•Anoppor tunitytotest your computer ’s connec tion to the WebEx platform.

By Telephone

Participate by telephone during the Public Hearing by calling 1.604.449.3026 and entering the Access Code 146 367 8438

Dial *3 to ‘raise your hand’indicating thatyou’d liketospeak. Youwill be placed on aspeakers’list and aler tedwhen it is your turntospeak .You will hear amessage that“your line has been unmuted”when it is your turntospeak .

Prior to the meeting,please visit squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings fordetailed instruc tions

Youmay par ticipate in person during the Hearing in Council Chambers at Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia. Masks arerequired forall persons attending Council meetings in person and mayberemovedwhile presenting to Council.

Duetospacelimitations in Council Chambers,the public is strongly recommended to par ticipate elec tronically via WebEx, by telephone and/or provide written submissions to hearing@squamish.ca

Watchthe Meeting without Speak ing

If youdonot wish to par ticipate but would like to watch the meeting and hear the submissions,you can do so by watching the meeting at squamish.ca/live-meetings

squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

• Fire Hall Server - Request for Proposals

• Concept Design for the Squamish Landfill Lateral Expansion - Request for Proposals

• Internal Water Meter Supply & Installations - Request for Quotations

• Annual Line Painting Program - Request for Quotations

• District of Squamish Heritage Management Strategy - Request for Proposals squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

DEVELOPMENT SHOWCASE

The following new applications have been added:

• 37707 Second Avenue - Rezoning

• 40480 Tantalus Road - Zoning Amendment

• 1358 Main Street - Temporar y Use Permit for Office

To review and comment on all ac tive applications, visit: squamish.ca/showcase

NOTICE OF PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT

Take notice that pursuant to sec tion 24 of the Community Char ter (British Columbia) the Distric t of Squamish proposes to work with the following businesses (“Companies”) under a par tnering agreement:

• Sea to Sky Cable Cam (Registration No 820861003), having a registered address at 1086 Wilson Crescent, Squamish B.C., V8B 0M4

• Skwalwen Botanicals (Registration No. BC1174848), having a registered address at Box 535, 41420 Dr yden Road, Brackendale B.C., V0N 1H0

• Quantum Technology (Registration No. BC0244886), having a registered address at #4

38936 Queens Way, Squamish B.C., V8B 0V2

• VentureWeb Designs (Registration No BC0674218), having a registered address at 102-41105 Tantalus Road, Squamish B.C., V8B 0N3

• D3 Innovation Inc. dba OneUp Components (Registration No BC0984065), having a registered address at 39012 Discover y Way, Unit 103, Squamish B.C., V8B 0E5

• Nexii Building Solutions (Registration No. 721550911), having a registered address at Vancouver B.C.

• Bewildher Fitwear Ltd. (Registration No 815949581BC0001), having a registered address at 110-1002 Industrial Way, Squamish B.C.

• Squamish Water Kefir Company (Registration No. 786089318), having a registered address at 108-1022 Industrial Way, Squamish B.C., V8B 0G9

• 0883572 BC Ltd (Registration No 0883572), having a registered address at 70002 Squamish Valley Rd, PO Box 244, Brackendale B.C., V0N 1H0

The purpose of the par tnering agreement is to enable the Distric t to encourage strategic investments and new firm growth in priority sec tors of our economy to generate new employment and economic resilienc y locally One tac tic being applied to this objec tive is the creation of new economic development content, including the development of a website, and print and digital marketing collateral. The Distric t and the Companies wish to enter this par tnering agreement for the purpose of creating Economic Development content highlighting emerging business sec tors in the Distric t. The Companies may receive benefit in the form of promotion, goodwill or other similar incidental benefits through par ticipating in these ac tivities There is no payment or monetar y transac tions associated with this ac tivity.

Any inquiries concerning the proposed assistance should be addressed to the undersigned or sent via email to rarthurs@squamish.ca. Robin Ar thurs, GM Corporate Services, Corporate Officer, Distric t of Squamish

A PAIR OF RESCUES FOR SQUAMISH SAR

Skiers were lost in Elfin Lakes area. Hikers lost traversing from Slhanay to the Stawamus Chief

STEVEN CHUA steven@squamishchief.com

Acouple of recent Squamish Search and Rescue calls are serving as a reminder for people to be prepared to stay the night outside in case plans go awry.

On Feb. 28, rescue manager B.J. Chute said that doing the research about current ski and trail conditions goes a long way, especially this time of year.

“It still gets dark early, so having a light source such as a headlamp per person, phone charger, an extra puffy, little bit of extra food, that type of stuff to help combat the darkness as well as the weather and the cold,” said Chute.

From Feb. 26 to 27 rescue crews were called out each day to help skiers in the first case, and hikers in the second.

That Saturday, three backcountry skiers went to Elfin, and, on the way back, decided to ski around the far side of Round Mountain. They wound up missing the trail coming back, Chute said. They tried skiing straight back down to the parking lot, but found themselves in a densely treed area with cliffs.

“They contacted us quite late,” said Chute. “Given the avalanche conditions and time of day, it took longer than probably one would expect to mount a search and rescue of them. So ultimately, we were able to talk them back uphill the way they had come. And that allowed the team to safely navigate the trail to Red Heather.”

Crews were able to meet with the skiers just above the Red Heather Hut, and brought them inside to warm them up and give them food and water.

Two of the three skiers were snowmobiled out by rescuers, and the last one skied out with the crew.

No one was injured.

On Sunday, a pair of hikers attempted to hike from Slhanay to the Stawamus Chief using the backside connector trail.

“You get to a point where there’s some rungs in the rock,” said Chute. “And they thought that it was too technical for them. So they tried and assumed that they had gone the wrong way. So they attempted a few of the other trails up there and ended up just kind of wandering around in the circle.”

Ultimately, they got lost and wound up

calling search and rescue when it became dark. Rescuers managed to find them at around 10 p.m. and the rescue was complete by around 1 a.m.

“It’s important that people spend even just 10 or 15 minutes researching where they’re going, like, read a few trail reports, you know, not just relying on a single app or word of mouth as to where to go,” he said. “So, you know, I think in both cases that would have served these people quite well.”

During the first weekend of March, sunny weather luckily did not result in a significant uptick in calls.

Chute told The Squamish Chief on March 7 that there were two callouts, both of which were not serious.

In the first case, which occurred on Saturday, there was a report of an overdue hiker in Garibaldi Park. However, it turned out that person’s emergency contact was not given a clear time of arrival, and called search and rescue prematurely.

During the second case, which happened on Sunday, a hiker called her daughter to say she was lost in Murrin Park. She was on the trail, but didn’t anticipate the snow and tree fall. However, rescuers were able to contact her by phone and guided her back to her car.

As of March 7, Squamish Search and Rescue has received 12 calls this year.

PHOTO BY JAU-CHENG LIOU/GETTY IMAGES

Areas such as Elfin Lakes can still have wintery conditions. Know before you go, says SAR manager.

It’s important that people spend even just 10 or 15 minutes researching where they’re going, like, read a few trail reports, you know, not just relying on a single app or word of mouth as to where to go.

B.J. CHUTE

SPIT WORK PAUSES

The work on the Squamish Spit has paused for now.

Excavation of a 300-metre portion of the Squamish River training berm has been temporarily suspended to allow herring to spawn and hatch near the site, according to a news release from the group undertaking the work.

“Late last week, Department of Fisheries and Oceans and Squamish River Watershed Society (SRWS) biologists observed a small patch of herring spawning just to the north of our worksite,” said SRWS executive director Edith Tobe in the release sent out March 7.

“And so out of an abundance of caution, we will hold off additional excavation works for the next few weeks to allow the eggs to hatch.”

Daily monitoring for herring spawn has been ongoing and will continue.

The project is still on track, the release states.

“Habitat revitalization is at the heart of what we are trying to accomplish by re-connecting the Squamish River to its estuary,” said SRWS spokesperson Patricia Heintzman, in the release.

“As herring are critically important to the coastal food web, and a species we anticipate will benefit greatly from this ecosystem revitalization and restoration project, everyone involved is not only excited to see the return of

the herring but vigilant to make sure herring spawn along the Spit is not disturbed.”

The excavation of 300 metres of training berm just north of the Squamish wind sport launch area is part of the larger, newly-rebranded Restore the Shore Central Estuary Restoration.

The current project includes the removal of approximately 900 metres of the lower training berm, or Spit.

First, 300 metres at the southern end of the training berm is being removed.

According to the release, this part of the project will be complete within three to four weeks after excavation work restarts post herring spawn hatch.

Since the project started five weeks ago, approximately 200 metres of the lower training berm has been removed, leaving a buttressed island for wind sports and other activities.

The release states that planning and permit development for Phase 2, removing the remaining 600 metres, is underway, with work anticipated to start in October 2022.

GOVERNMENT SLASH PILE BURNING

It is likely not something to worry about if you see some smoke in certain areas around Squamish in the

coming month.

Since the fall of 2020, Sea to Sky Natural Resource District staff, with the support of BC Wildfire Service crews, have been conducting a fuel management project to reduce wildfire risks in our area.

The project has been focusing on areas that are deemed a high wildfire risk.

The final stage of the project is the burning of forest debris that crews have gathered into piles.

This work is happening east of Quest University, along Mamquam Road and Garibaldi Park Road to the southern border of the Ring Creek residential area.

According to a government news release, the debris being gathered in piles is no larger than two metres tall and three metres wide.

“Burning will be intermittent based on multiple factors, including site accessibility, crew availability, weather and venting conditions,” the release states.

According to the release, all burning will adhere to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy’s Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation to reduce the impact on residents.

Removing accumulations off forest fuels aims to do the following:

•help reduce the severity and spread of any future wildfires in the

area

•help prevent a wildfire from spreading into the tops of trees

•reduce wildfire threats to the community

•give firefighting crews better access to any future wildfire in this area

•provide a safer public evacuation route, if needed.

Work that’s already been completed includes understory thinning, which removes smaller trees and other vegetation through mechanical and manual falling, tree pruning, removal of surface fuels, and/or removal of other wood fibre. Older, mature trees were left to provide shade and inhibit the regrowth of understory vegetation.

All personnel working on this project are following provincial COVID-19 public health orders and guidelines to ensure that operations can continue safely.

CORRECTION

Please note the story, ‘Squamish petitioners seek to preserve North Crumpit lands,’ printed on March 3, incorrectly stated that the District started the neighbourhood planning process. However, it was the developer, the Diamond Head Land Company, that started the process.

INVITATION TO TENDER

SAMAHQUAM HEALTH

+HEALING CENTRE

PROJECT: Samahquam Health +Healing Centre Lot 25+26, Q’Alatkú7em, Baptiste Smith, B.C.

Client: Samahquam First Nation and Souther nStl’atl’imx Health Society

Architect: David Nair ne +Associates Ltd.

Structural: David Nair ne +Associates Ltd.

Mechanical: Integral Group

Electrical: O’M Engineering

Civil: David Nair ne +Associates Ltd.

Geotechnical: EXP Services Inc.

SCOPE OF WORK:

The scope of work shall include the construction of anew single storey wood framed health and healing building. The new 194m² (2,088ft²) building will include areception, multipurpose room, kitchen, offices, medical exam /treatment room and general support spaces. The building contains covered walkway,patio and an exterior covered EMV bay with associated equipment storage.

The building construction includes concrete slab on grade, wood framing, engineered wood trusses, 2ply SBS roofing and cementitious siding. Mechanical HVAC system comprises Heat Pumps with HRV.

Exterior works will include provision of new septic field, clearing, stripping, subgrade preparation, grading, topsoil with seeding, concrete aprons, gravel parking, generator enclosure, water connection and coordination of BC Hydro/Communication services to the building.

TENDER CLOSING:

Sealed tenders will be received at the offices of David Nair ne +Associates Ltd. at 250-171 West Esplanade, North Vancouver,BC, V7M 3J9 on or before 29 March, 2022, 2:00pm P.S.T.

Tender Documents areavailable online at the Regional Construction Association /Bid Central websites. Tender documents will be available on and after 2pm P.S.T on 8March, 2022.

Contact Sharon Russell at David Nair ne +Associates Ltd. reception (604.984.3503) for registration. All other inquiries /RFI, please contact: Sal Gallagher by email at sgallagher@davidnairne.com

UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES OF TAKING PUBLIC WORKS FOR GRANTED

The recent results of the alternative approval process show that people aren’t happy with how their tax dollars are being spent. But there are perhaps a host of unintended consequences.

It is excellent to see that the voting public was engaged in this case, and the sign of a healthy democracy is a population that is willing to get out and vote.

However, certain troubling posts have started to emerge online, which suggests that at least some people who cast ballots in the alternative approval process were not fully informed on what they were voting for.

If the municipality is denied the chance by the electorate to get a long-term loan, they will still build the public works facility, but they will use costlier means.

This would either be funded entirely through property taxes or funding entirely through the sale of municipal assets, none of which are ideal choices.

The first option is more expensive for the taxpayer, costing $68 per $100,000 of assessed value for residents and $175 per $100,000 for commercial properties.

District financial analyst Rolland Russell said that the average tax for a million-dollar home is about $2,200. This would add about $700 a year for two years, resulting in a one-third increase over two years.

That’s a significant increase for taxpayers, and it’s probably not what they wanted, as one of the biggest complaints this past budget was the increase in property taxes.

The second option, funding the project

through the sale of municipal property, is an unappetizing proposition that would take a lengthy period of time and leave the town with fewer assets.

Our toilets need to flush. Our roads need to be maintained. Our water needs to run. A public works facility is not optional.

That being said, the voters did express valid concerns. The municipality has perhaps become too comfortable with getting hefty loans, and it’s arguable that it did not inform the public enough about the facility.

Yes, they did put ads indicating their intention for the project, and they did include some preliminary blueprints online.

However, the average resident is not an architect and will not be able to fully understand what is being proposed.

Some people complained the council meeting that occurred after the results of the AAP were revealed actually contained more specifics about the project than had been previously posted online during the AAP — which is when it would’ve really counted.

And some of these details caused elected officials to question some parts of the design. For example, Mayor Karen Elliott had questions about whether having two kitchens, as specified in the design, was really necessary.

She also had questions about the use of two large rooms in the building.

When it comes down to it, we need a public works facility. But perhaps the District was too quick to assume the public would sign off on it with limited details on the matter.

WHY NEW MOM SCARY THOUGHTS, LIKELY AREN’T SO SCARY

EDITOR’S NOTEBOOK

Iwas pushing my newborn twins in the stroller down a treed trail. My toddler older son was walking ahead and swinging a stick. He loved sticks.

Suddenly, I had the image of him hanging in the tree.

It was terrifying.

“What kind of mom thinks that?” I wondered, over and over as we carried on to the park. By now, I was breaking out into a cold sweat, and my knees were weak.

To back up, to say I adored — and adore — my sons is a massive understatement.

They were beyond wanted and beyond loved.

I covered every light socket and checked them during nap times to ensure they were still breathing.

I locked the toilet seat lid down because I heard toddlers could drown in them. I used cloth diapers so their skin wouldn’t be irritated, breastfed them and co-slept with them.

They were my life.

And yet I had this scary thought and others that followed.

At home, after the walk, I looked at the knives in the block on the counter, and at the hammer I had taken out to put up pictures.

What if I was losing my mind and used those to hurt my kids?

I locked away these formerly innocentseeming items.

Sadly, I didn’t tell anyone for a long time.

I was so scared and ashamed.

But the harder I tried not to think about

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SALES MANAGER CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@squamishchief.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER Denise Conway dconway@squamishchief.com

them, the more vivid the thoughts got.

I didn’t deserve my sons, I told myself.

Eventually, when I told a therapist everything I was going through, she smiled warmly.

She explained that I was experiencing unwanted intrusive thoughts.

She said it was that I cared so much about my kids and would never harm them in real life that made me so freaked out.

It was quite common to have such thoughts, she said. I was just trying so hard not to think of them, it was giving them more power. Like trying not to think of a pink elephant — the harder you try, there it is.

Eventually, thanks to continued therapy and with the help of an antidepressant to bring my anxiety under control, the scary thoughts went away, or if they did come, I didn’t let them freak me out.

In fact, I had pretty much forgotten about them until last week when the University of British Columbia released a study that I so wish had come out 25 years ago when my sons were small.

It found that a mom’s thoughts of harming a child are a common but unpleasant part of the postpartum experience for many — up to 50% of new moms.

This latest UBC study confirms findings from an earlier pilot study.

My advice for new moms is not to keep your thoughts a secret; talk about them with your doctor, therapist, or trusted other moms.

When I shared our online story about the study on the Squamish Moms Facebook group, it warmed my heart to see other moms sharing their experiences with intrusive thoughts.

For dads reading this, check in with your partner and listen without judgment if she shares.

Being alone with them, in many ways, is the scariest part.

PUBLISHER SARAH STROTHER sstrother@wplpmedia.com

PRODUCTION Julie Gamache jgamache@squamishchief.com

The Squamish Chief is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact Editor Jennifer Thuncher at jthuncher@squamishchief.com. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

JENNIFER THUNCHER

Ha7lh skwálwen cht kwis emút cht iy sts’its’áp’ cht iy kw’shétsut cht na7 tkwa temíxw tl’a Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw

(We have good feelings that we live, we work and we play on the lands of the Squamish Nation)

Squamish’s Hunter Place residential-commercial project passes third reading Comments on facebook.com/squamishchief

It looks like a well thought out and presented development in a very suitable area.

Collin Burke

COULD KEYBOARD WARRIORS IN TOWN WIND UP IN COURT?

I wonder how many owners are going to complain about the train noise after buying an apartment next to the train tracks?

Michael C. Perry

JOIN US ONLINE

When this community is facing the challenge of unprecedented growth, online forums have given more residents an opportunity to influence decision-makers and shape public policy from the comfort of their computer keyboards.

What’s not to like about a communication innovation that keeps participants tuned into the pace of civic change while offering a unique opportunity for networking, self-expression, and personal growth?

As it turns out, online community webs have become a double-edged sword.

Coun. Doug Race says since he’s been in office, there have been numerous social media campaigns filled with misinformation and anonymous agents attempting to promote their agendas.

“Free speech, debate and discourse are certainly desirable, but they work best if there is transparency where we know who is accountable and what they are promoting,” he adds. Coun. Armand Hurford has similar misgivings about the direction social media has taken. He says many online groups are either poorly moderated or are designed to persistently undermine the credibility of council. “It’s hard to have

productive discussions of nuanced topics with these sorts of forces at play and may also affect who is willing to step forward to participate in politics moving forward,” he notes Counc. Chris Pettingill is equally skeptical about certain aspects of the social web arena. “We can all see how overwhelming misinformation and anger are in today’s social media posts. All it takes is one or two people purposely spreading misinformation and/or bullying others to sour the potential value of social media for everyone,” Pettingill says. His preferable communication channels are a phone call, video chat, or a face-to-face discussion over coffee, all of which he believes are more conducive to respectful dialogue.

According to Coun. John French social media is susceptible to a significant level of confirmation bias coupled with limited critical analysis. He warns that at its worst, it has been transformed into an angry space where participants can be uncharacteristically bold and even hostile.

“For many people, it is a place to post thoughtless words with no relation to reality…a far more valuable source of resident feedback for me is one-on-one conversations and direct correspondence,” he adds.

Evidence from the social media trenches lends credence to the above-cited concerns.

Several council members have faced online ridicule, name-calling, over-the-top allegations and threats.

Last December, rumour-fueled accusations surfaced on several local social media platforms related to the Squamish muni-

cipal hall replacement decision.

In the process of weighing the options to build or rent a new facility, council was accused of lining an undisclosed developer’s pockets with a $20 million taxpayer-funded rent payment derisively referred to as a “Christmas gift.” Similar wholly unverified claims have surfaced that members of council are receiving kickbacks from developers.

Ultimately, malicious assertions reach well beyond the parameters of fair comment and unless they are true, they could be considered defamatory and legally actionable.

A 2016 B.C. Supreme Court case underscores that claim. In Pritchard v Van Nes the presiding judge, Justice Saunders, ruled in favour of Pritchard, an Abbotsford Middle School music teacher, who was defamed online by his neighbour.

The defendant, Van Nes, allegedly published some disturbing posts on Facebook which, according to the court, “in their natural meaning and by innuendo, bore the meaning that the plaintiff was a pedophile,” and those suggestions “were completely false and unjustified.” Subsequently, the defendant was ordered to pay $65,000 in damages. The takeaway from that precedent-setting cyber libel judgement is clear: freewheeling keyboard warriors who embark on defamatory excursions in the court of social media may be held accountable for their actions in a court of law.

Political columnist Helmut Manzl writes about muni hall for The Squamish Chief twice per month.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

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Have your say at squamishchief.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

How should the District of Squamish pay for the new works yard?

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free rapid antigen tests for those older than 60 starting March 7

FIRED UP: The Sea to Sky Potters’ Guild got all fired up on Sunday, literally. The guild hosted an obvara Raku firing demonstration in Brackendale. Obvara Raku, which is sometimes called Baltic Raku, involves hot pots being taken out of a kiln and then quickly dunked into a fermented liquid, which is made from water, fl our, yeast, and sugar. About 30 folks came out under the sun to enjoy the event.

WHAT CAUSED LOCALS TO VOTE AGAINST THE PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY LOAN?

An SFU professor, Squamish Forward and a councillor share their views on the matter

STEVEN CHUA steven@squamishchief.com

An SFU professor says that taxpayer fatigue is a possible cause of highly unusual results from an alternative approval process that may force a referendum on the District of Squamish’s new public works facility.

“It doesn’t happen too much, particularly for things like public works, because, you know, typically, most people like to have their toilets flush,” said Andy Yan, director of the university’s city program.

Having the electorate force a referendum on a critical piece of infrastructure is a rare occurrence.

Perhaps the last time anything similar occurred in Squamish was back in 2005, when residents overwhelmingly voted against a hefty loan in a referendum. At that time, the municipality was asking for permission to borrow $20 million for community amenities and recreation facilities.

In this case, it’s unclear if the municipality will choose to proceed to a referendum for this matter, or whether it will make a second attempt at an alternative approval process.

Alternative approval processes, or AAPs, are initiated for big decisions, like hefty loans, and allow residents to vote against a proposal. If 10% of eligible voters cast ballots in an AAP, then the matter must go to referendum, where the public decides whether or not to accept the municipality’s proposal. The municipality may forgo a referendum in favour of holding another alternative approval process, but best practices suggest that the proposal should then be modified to address concerns from the public.

However, this case is particularly peculiar because it involves the essentials of municipal operations, rather than recreation or amenities.

Yan said there were a number of questions around the outcome of the AAP, such as whether the District made its case clearly for the need of the structure.

“It could be one of those combinations of things of voter fatigue; of a sense of, you know, ‘Is spending out of control? Is spending in the right places?’” said Yan.

There’s also the possibility that perhaps the municipality took it for granted that a loan for the facility would be unopposed.

“A sense of entitlement is a problem too. It’s to say that, ‘Oh, it’s a public workshop. So, of course, it’s got to be passed.’ Well, no, I think a lot of people want to see value for the money.”

On March 1, District staff revealed that about 1,700 voters voiced their displeasure with the current proposal to borrow about $16 million to help fund the new public works building, which was originally anticipated to cost $20 million. The rest was to be funded from selling municipal assets.

The municipality has identified the aging building as being in critical need of being replaced.

The costs of the structure have also since increased to about $23.8 million, which would prompt the need for a pricier loan of up to $19 million.

Regardless of the increase, municipal bureaucrats say that if the municipality is unable to borrow money, it will spell an increase in taxes for residents.

A loan of about $18 million would mean an annual cost for residents of $9.50 per $100,000 of assessed property value. Commercial owners would pay $24 per $100,000 of assessed value, District staff say. This is essentially what the original proposal was asking for, but this option is in danger of being shot down, as a result of the alternative approval results.

There are two other options.

One is to fund the project entirely from property taxes, creating a pricier scenario of $68 per $100,000 of assessed value for residents and $175 per $100,000 for commercial properties.

During the March 1 meeting, District financial analyst Rolland Russell said that the average tax for a million-dollar home is about $2,200. Funding through property tax would add about $700 a year for two years, bumping it to nearly $3,000 for each of those years. He said that would be a roughly one-third increase.

The second option, funding the project through the sale of municipal property, staff said, is an unappetizing proposition that would take a lengthy period of time and leave the town with fewer assets.

Another possible reason for the votes against the loan could be the changing demographics of Squamish, Yan said. He pointed out that as a result of population growth, a good chunk of Squamish’s population did not live in town during the

last census year of 2016.

“At least 20% of your community wasn’t there five years ago,” said Yan, so for newcomers a big loan just after settling in town can be a shock.

“It’s like, ‘What, do you want me to spend money on this now?’”

As for some of the suggestions regarding cost savings, Yan said that scrimping on a public facility isn’t easy.

One suggestion from the public was to increase the number of remote workers, thus cutting the need for office space.

Yan said that it’s possible in some cases, but there are projects and services where remote work just doesn’t cut it.

“Even throughout the pandemic, a lot of the building services were still In operation,” said Yan. “So, you know, yes, people were physically distancing, but they weren’t Skyping in. And some office work is Skypable, but then a lot of this, some of these details and municipal works kind of operations are not.”

Contracting out services from public works would not eliminate the need for a public works facility, as, at the very least, there still needs to be a place to store heavy machinery, he said.

“You don’t necessarily want to outsource everything… because then it also [creates] some challenges in terms of standards to service,” he said.

This kind of facility would not qualify as an amenity, and, as a result, wouldn’t be able to be funded by community amenity contributions.

Squamish Forward, a local political group, has been posting online calls for improvements to the municipality’s operation.

One of its latest posts was an online petition encouraging people to vote against the loan authorization in the alternative approval process.

“We can tell Squamish council that we do not agree to millions in new spending and a

property tax increase,” read the post.

Gord Addison, an organizer with Squamish Forward, said its online petition was not the main driver of the votes gathered in the alternative approval process.

Addison said the credit for the vote-gathering belonged to those who gathered signatures outside of grocery stores.

As for the goals that his group had with the online petition, he said that the aim was to generate conversation.

He said that standalone buildings are becoming a thing of the past, and said his group is working on a follow-up post regarding the results of the process.

Previously, the group made a post on its website floating the idea of creating combined buildings like the municipal hall and the school board office to offset construction costs for replacing the aging structures.

“We just want to generate some discussion,” Addison said.

Coun. Eric Andersen also contributed a post to Squamish Forward’s website months ago, told The Squamish Chief he is not in favour of the results of the alternative approval process.

He said he is not affiliated with the group.

“I was approached by a member of a third or fourth-generation member of a local family to participate in this dialogue initiative with an opinion piece. I learned there were diverse people involved who I respect as active citizens,” he said.

“I was not informed or consulted on the later initiative of a petition against a loan authorization for the planned public works building, and certainly would not have endorsed it. The outcome was, in fact, a surprise to me. It is disruptive and costly for the District and its genuine needs.”

He said the outcome was frustrating.

“I do not perceive any orchestration with mischievous intent behind it. But the real effect is another matter,” he added.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF The Squamish Works Yard.

You don’t necessarily want to outsource everything… because then it also [creates] some challenges in terms of standards to service.

ANDY YAN

WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

THE IMPORTANCE OF FEMALE FRIENDSHIPS TO WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Madeleine Shaw, a 30-year entrepreneur, shares her views on doing business in new and more compassionate ways

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Though she has worked for 30 years as an entrepreneur, Madeleine Shaw isn’t your typical businesswoman if there is such a thing.

She doesn’t buy the attempted separation of “professional” and “personal” that can make the suits and boardroom-style of business seem stuffy and intimidating at times.

Shaw has built a career as a social entrepreneur, author, speaker, and mentor.

The Squamish Chief sat down over Zoom with Shaw for a wide-ranging conversation about the issues of interest to Squamish businesswomen, particularly the role and importance of female friendships.

What follows is an edited version of that conversation.

Q: Can you talk to me about female friendships and how they play into business success?

A: I guess I would start with saying that I think it’s really important to examine, or question, this whole notion of “I’m a professional business person” in one dimension of my life, and, “I’m a human being,” in the other — and they’re kind of separate and different. I personally don’t really believe in that.

You might be talking about different things, but the commonality of your values, sense of humour, compassion, and just your humanity, ideally, should

permeate your whole life. I always start a meeting by checking in. “How are you? What’s going on?” And I mean that on a human level, I don’t mean like, “What’s on your desk today?” When people feel relaxed, when they feel comfortable, they feel confident, they feel that their ideas are welcome...their anxiety goes down. That allows them to bring their best self and they’re going to share their ideas because they feel like somebody

wants to hear them. This notion of authenticity and humanity is really important to me. And I would say in my life, my closest relationships have formed from being colleagues.

I would say my business partner is one of my best friends ever in my entire life.

Q: That is sort of the opposite of what our culture — perhaps until the pandemic — teaches us, right? But it makes me

wonder how you maintain boundaries then?

A: I think the word boundaries sometimes can feel a little bit harsh. Women, in particular, can sometimes feel awkward about creating boundaries even though they’re absolutely necessary. I ask my friends for business favours.

FRIENDS: Continued on 18

Squamishhumanresources expert offers business solutions

Dawn Longshawbelieves companies of all sizes need asolid HR plan

Are youabusiness owner or manager in the Seato SkyCorridor? Your company mayneed human resources morethan ever

“InSquamish,itissotough to recruit people into jobs, so it’s even moreimportant to retain them,” says Dawn LongshawofLongshaw Consulting Group. “Companies areconsidering their HR policies to reflect the value of who theyare as acompany.Iamthe person an owner or manager would call if they don’thaveHRfull time, but want some policies, procedures, and frameworks put in place.”

Abusiness doesn’t havetobebig to benefit from HR, and Longshawtells us shehas clients with as few as “4 employees needing her consulting services either on an ad-hoc, project, or retainer basis.”

Issues abusiness mighthavechallengeswith, and that could use her HR expertise? Longshaw puts it simply, saying “anyone canlookup the employmentstandards online, but it is moreabout applying those regulations in aprofessional way within your workspace, so people feelconnectedtowork, knowwhat their rights are, and knowtheir employervalues that.”

That said, shebelieves ever ybusiness should have an employee handbook that “gives people asenseof belongingtoyour organization, no matter what size.” Longshaw’sother ser vices include recruitment,advice on programs, onboarding, compensating, job-loss messaging and more.

604.512.5392

longshawconsulting.ca

dawn@longshawconsulting.ca

“Myclients arelooking for solutions,” she says. “HR is not an entirely facts-based business, it is afeelingsdominated business, youare managing human interactions, and we help managers manage their people.”

Longshawwas aprofessionalrecruiter for over twenty years, formed her ownbusiness in 2010, and movedto Squamish from Vancouverin2016. Settling in, andmost certainly over the past twoyears of the pandemic, she sees that “Squamishisnot just aresortcommunity,there arealot of tech-based and service-basedcompanies that haveestablished themselves here.”

What changes and growth has Longshaw seen in her HR career? “The social contract around workhas shifted,” she says. Years ago, “it wasalmost apatriarchal arrangement, and that has evolved to wherethe employeenow wants to be valued. It’s morelike ‘I sell youmyser vices butinexchange Iexpect to be treated acertain way’. The legal framework has changed, responsibilities havechangedand learning situations happen on thejob. Employers must be really clear on expectations of the work, and communication is key,to articulate in apositiveway.”

Longshawispassionate about herworkand takespride in “instilling spirit, change andaction”into her clients.

To learnmoreabout the ser vices offered by LongshawConsulting, visit the website at www.longshawconsulting.ca

PHOTO SUBMITTED Madeleine Shaw.

Youcan help women and children in need by participating in online auction

Howe Sound Women’sCentre raising funds for drop-in centres in Squamish and Whistler

TomarkInternational

Women’s DayonMarch 8, 2022, The HoweSound Women’s Centre(HSWC) is launching an online auction in supportofwomen and children in need in the SeatoSky Corridor

“Wewanted to continue to markInternational Women’s Daytocelebrate advances in equality and the need to continue to push for equality for femme-identifying folks in our communities,” HSWCexecutivedirector Ashley Oakes says.

HSWCisurging the community to make adirect impact on those in need by participating in this year’s event, an online auction that will showcase workthat women in the community aredoing.

This auction is achance for women to supporteach other through business highlights. HSWCwill post logos on its online portal and advertising through social media which will promote local businesses including those women-led businesses who supportits work.

The auction will raise needed funds to runprograms and provide ser vices to women and children in the Squamish and Whistler communities. These proceeds areused to supportunder-funded vital programs at both HSWC’s Whistler and Squamish drop-in centrelocations.

HSWChas provided an essential ser vice in the Seato Skyregion since 1981, offering supportand ser vices for sur vivors of gender-based violence, including a24-hour sexual assault response team that will go out to meet women anywhereinthe corridor.

“Wecall it the Traverse Project because our staff will traverse the sea to sky to help women in need,” Oakes says.

“The reason we feel it’s important in our area is the vastness of the area and the lack of public transit options.”

HSWCser vesthe needs of women and trans, non-binary,and two-spirit sur vivors of intimate partner violence.

The women’s centrehas grownsignificantly in the last several years, numbering 54 diverse staff members providing ser vices throughout the area.

“The workwouldn’t be able to be done without the many incredible and passionate staff and volunteers who breathe so much life in their workand provide incredible supportfor sur vivors,” Oakes says.

“They areworthy of so much celebration because the workisn’t always easy and they come in prepared to tackle it ever yday.”

To learnmoreand to supportHSWC’sonline fundraiser, visit hswc.ca.

Brighten your smile with Squamishbased mobile teeth whitening

Giveyour pearlywhites an upg rade

Icome right to your home,” says Squamish-based tooth whitening technician Jazzamyn Walker,and locals in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor areloving it. Walker started her mobile ser vice, called Saucy Teeth, not so long ago in August 2021, and business is doing considerably well, especially during apandemic. Perhaps because the world’s smiles havebeen hiding behind protectivemasks for two years, professional teeth whitening is morepopular than ever

“I’ve got certification for both cosmetic tooth whitening and gems and Bloodborne pathogen training, followall the COVID-19 protocols, ever ything Iuse is FDA approved, dental grade and made in NorthAmerica,” she says. Walker’s system is very different from take-home trays that can have unexpected results, like colour mismatching or sensitivity to the cold gel, and ever ything she uses is designed for sensitiveteeth.

When it comes to just howwhite teeth should look, it seems to be amatter of preference. “I won’t go super Hollywood-white with mine,” she says, but adds “results vary from person to person, and the base colour dictates that.” Apparently,aperson’s teeth can havegreyundertones, or appear transparent, but

individuals with yellowtones “will get way whiter results.”

The system Walker uses at Saucy Teeth means she can concentrate moreofthe gel on areas of the teeth that need it, so it looks morenatural and helps to ensure no sensitivity is taking place. “It’sver ycustomized, personal, plus Iamconstantly checking in with my clients,” she says. The whitening also allows aclient to pause and check the process, determining just how white and bright they want to go.

Couples aregetting their teeth whitened at the same time, which Walker says is “popular,like aspa day,” Shebrings her ownanti-gravity chairs which are comfortable and professional, and make for a“cozy experience,” she says.

In addition to whitening, temporar ytooth gems are fun, wherebyaSwarovski cr ystal is applied with a gentle adhesivethat’s not permanent; no drilling is involved and gems areeasily removable. Whether you go single cr ystal bling, or full-on disco ball, the choice is yours. “Incase youmissed it,” laughs Walker,“Ilove sparkles.”

Formoreinformation and to book an appointment, visit www.saucyteeth.com.

Jazzamyn Walker

Photo provided by Saucy Teeth.

I just did it the other day. I think it’s knowing when it’s appropriate to ask, and if you are the asker, to be super transparent and make it incredibly safe for someone to say no.

I’m a big believer in honesty and in transparency and in not having unrealistic expectations of people and also listening to that intuitive voice. If it feels like this is asking too much of someone, it’s probably asking too much.

But on the flip side, if we don’t ask for help, that’s kind of hurting us too. So, that’s why we need to make sure that there’s that safety and clarity in communication where if someone says, ‘No’ to you, it doesn’t make you mad. It doesn’t make you not like someone. It is just like, OK.

I think sometimes there can be a bit of a negative assumption around, “That person is trying to use me or get something from me,” or whatever. And that’s why we need to really take time with relationships to build trust — whether it’s your kid’s roller derby team or a marketing meeting, or you’re pitching to someone.

Q: How do you define your friendships?

A: For me, friendship is a form of love. And so I always go with Joni Mitchell’s definition, which is touching souls.

There’s something about just witnessing someone else’s humanity and just being with it and holding it gently. And then some form of shared experience.

I think, if anything, we need more compassion and more connection right now. So perhaps thinking about relationships in general, as opposed to these are my friends, these are my business colleagues, you know?

Q: There’s a lot of young or startup businesses in Squamish, and people have their head down being super busy; they are short-staffed, trying to get their business off the ground. Can you give us

some advice on how to nurture relationships as an entrepreneur?

A: I’ve been an entrepreneur for 30 years; I get that it takes a lot to do these things. But I also really question hustle culture. This idea that if you’re starting a venture, you have to go 24/7, and you’ve got to almost sacrifice your well-being, your sleep, that type of thing because it’s just the way it is. That idea has been very reinforced by Silicon Valley culture, which seems to have sort of made its way into the startup of anything.

I don’t think we want people to sacrifice their well-being for economic purposes. And I don’t actually think it has to be that way.

In the end, you can burn out; it’s not worth it if you come out of it a less healthy person. You really need to prioritize self-care because you can’t kill the goose

that lays the golden eggs, you know? You have got to make sure that the goose gets a decent amount of sleep and hangs out with her family and all of those things.

Q: You are very extroverted, clearly, but some of us are more introverted, so what about those folks and how they can make friends?

A: There’s something about just practising being happy with you and expressing yourself and other people will come — whether that’s another kid’s parent you end up talking to or you’re in the dog park, and you start talking about the dogs or you whatever, it’s like, just, honestly, be yourself.

Q: As much as we talk about women lifting each other up, there can be — especially among young mothers I have talked to — a very competitive edge to it. Can you address that?

A: Motherhood and especially new motherhood is such an incredibly vulnerable time, and every form of judgment that you can imagine is coming at these women.

People project all of their crap onto these people, who are arguably doing the most important job ever. It breaks my heart. And then there are these kinds of mummy wars where they sort of turn on each other with, “My way of parenting my kid is better than your way of parenting or good or whatever.” I think it’s real. And the problem isn’t with these individual women; it’s this broader culture that is socializing them.

We live in a hyper-competitive kind of environment, and we don’t realize that we’re translating competitive values into places where they don’t belong, like friendships, like talking about parenting. We just all need to have more compassion. Just because we do things differently doesn’t mean that I’m right and you’re wrong. It just means that we’re different people who are coping as best we can, and doing our best with our own life experience and what we know and don’t know. Be kind and be compassionate with you, and that’s going to help you kind of slow down a little bit when it comes to putting that on other people.

Q: How have female friendships helped you in business, not in a transactional sense, but more generally?

A: Oh, so many ways. I would say my friends helped me to be a better human being. And when I’m a better human being, I’m more open to new ideas. And I’m more aware of other people’s needs that I could meet in creative ways. And I’m more able to achieve things because it’s easier to work as a team and be a leader. And when people are invested emotionally, in someone, in my case, me, it makes it easier to get stuff done. And it’s more fun.

Squamish woman’s Indigenous skincare brand raises the bar

SkwálwenBotanicals combines cultural knowledge, plant science and self-care

Since2018, Leigh Joseph, owner of Skwálwen Botanicals has grownher skincarebusiness to an all-female team of six, athriving e-commerce website, and products sold in over fifty retailers across Canada, including Billies House in Squamish. Forthose unfamiliar with the beauty biz, to say that is vertical growth in just four years is an understatement.

“I love the opportunity for collaboration, building a team of primarily Indigenous women,” says Joseph. “It’s really exciting, to be able to go on the land and continue to connect to cultural plant knowledge is so rewarding.”

Skwálwen Botanicals is acomplete line of sustainably har vested and sourced botanicals, whereJoseph explains “weunite ancestral traditionswith modern beauty rituals, empowering people to connect to themselves and the natural world, hereinthe Unceded Territories of the Skwxẃu7mesh (Squamish) First Nation.”

In an industr ywhere“Indigenous representation is still very low,”Joseph’s brand has had some impressivemedia outlets take notice, like Flare, Elle Canada, and Chatelaine magazine, with editorial coverage that shares her backstor yaswell as product line up.

“Mybackground as an ethnobotanist, training in both western science and botany plus my cultural knowledge allows me to approach this space from a

unique standpoint,” Joseph says. “That really creates opportunities for innovativeproduct formulations as well as howwetell the stor y, and type of context we bring to plant-based beauty space.”

Committed to asustainable supply chain with their botanical ingredients and aiming to increase sustainability and reduce carbon imprint, Skwálwen Botanicals is collaborating with small-scale organic farms and growers from Indigenous communities to grow botanicals for their product line as well as giving back to the land.

The line includes face and body products plus teas and candles, with the multi-use healing salves being one of the best sellers since the brand’s launch and the wild rose facial oil aclose second. “The formulation hasstayed the same since the beginning with excellent feedback,” says Joseph. “I love the scent; wild rose just embodies summer and being outdoors.”

Ever yquarter Skwálwen Botanicals does aceremony release of new products, with donating 10% proceeds to Indigenous foundations.

Presently,Joseph is finishing her doctoral studies in botany plus working on abook coming out in September 2022, which will divedeeper into her journey,include recipes, the language and range of plants in the area. She’salso contributing to an updated plant field guide through the Royal BC Museum.

Formoreinformation about Skwálwen Botanicals products, visit skwalwen.com.

New motherhood can be a fraught time for many women, says Madeleine Shaw.

Leigh Joseph, owner of Skwálwen Botanicals.

Photo credit: Kaili’i Smith.

Squamish realtor helps her clients make their spaces workfor their needs

Sub: Liz Kaiser’sinter ior design exper tise maximizes the potential of proper ties

Liz Kaiser understands howtoget the most out of aproperty to meet the needs of her clients. Many arelooking for anewly renovated home that is also on alarge lot, something that’s hardto come by in Squamish.

“People come to town and they want to parktheir toys. They want space but they also want areally nice house,”Kaiser says.

“Iftherewas aniche for me, Iwould say that I really enjoyfinding the perfect location and helping people through the process of making it function for them?”

Kaiser is in the process of getting an interior design certificate to help her provide vision and design for the potential of ahome. “I find big lots and help turnthe houses into homes that workfor them,” Kaiser says.

Kaiser’s hyper-local advice also helps her to successfully guide her clients.

“Toreally understand the way the town movesand

breathes, youhavetohavebeen herefor alittle while,”Kaiser says. “Ittakes really understanding town to really knowthose nooks and crannies.”

Kaiser has lived in Squamish since her 20s and has raised two children in town. Sheoriginally moved to Whistler for aseason and met her husband, who was aski patroller.

Kaiser,also became aski patroller and decided to stay,worked in emergency management, including managing the ski patrol volunteers for the 2010 Olympics.

Shemoved into real estate after several years of buying and renovating homes with husband, who has abackground in construction.

Kaiser knows all the neighbourhoods in town and can make the best recommendations for her clients based on her knowledge.

Shep rides herself on her authenticity and helping clients find aproperty that’s the right fit for them.

“I truly livehow most people who come to Squamish want to live. It’s authentic. I’mnot just selling it, I’mliving it,”Kaiser says.

To workwith Liz Kaiser today,visit lizkaiser.com.

Squamish businesswoman suppor ts women andthe planet with herorganic clothingline

“Being asuccessful woman in business means being proudand confident in my abilities,”saysYanaRoney, owner of Highly Spirited Apparel.

“Italso means supporting other female entrepreneurs. I go out of my way to seek outwomen vendors and work with my fellowwomen-owned businesses.”

As abusinessperson, mom, and co-owner (with her husband)ofSquamish Rafting Company as well, to say Roney is abit busy is an understatement. Butinstead of soundingstressed when she spoke to us, she was friendly, down-to-earth, and highly spirited, like the name of her company.

Roney’s sustainable, ethically-made, tie-dyed garments aremade with organic bamboo, andthe collection includes colorful, one-of-a-kind comfy,casual pieces for men, women, and children.Theclothing is available for purchase on thewebsite, at theraftingcompany,and TMCFreerider zinWhistler.Thecollection consists of hoodies, sweatpants, tees, toques and beanies.Fun, new spring styles will also be added to the clothing line soon.

Using food-based, vegan dyes, “plus alot of reverse dyed pieces, which means even if youwash it 100 times, it won’t fade,”the hyper-local line is sewninVancouver and finished in Squamish. “Each piece is unique, like awork ofart,” Roney says.

“I workwith other women-owned businesses,fromthe womanwho sources my fabrics to the woman whodoes my business cards,”she says. The brand launchedinApril of 2021 with acampaign featuring vibrant, inspirational global influencers from around Squamish as models for the clothing.

Presently,the Feather Collection is set up so that a portion of sales goes towards supporting an organization that aids in raptor rehabilitation in B.C., called the OWL (Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation) Society.Next in the plan for 20222 is aMountain Collection, which will supportthe Valhalla Mountains.

When it came to coming up with the name, it was truly alightbulb momentfor Roney.“Isaid to my mom, you knowtie-dyeisareally big thing right now, and Ineed to find aname for my brand,” she says. “Mom told me Iwas always highly spirited, even as alittle girl, and she was sureIwould come up with something. And that’s when Ithought, that’s it!” she laughs.

To shop Highly Spirited Apparel, visit the website at www.highly-spirited.ca.

Website: highly-spirited.ca

THE IMPORTANCE OF NETWORKING FOR WOMEN

What is it and how do you do it? A veteran business coach and mentor provides tips and insight

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Like the repetition of “location, location, location” as a central tenet of the real estate market, networking is often heralded as the key to success as an entrepreneur.

But what does it truly mean to network, and why is it essential for fledgling female Sea to Sky Corridor entrepreneurs?

Whistler’s Cathy Goddard of Lighthouse Visionary Strategies, a coaching and mentoring firm primarily geared at women entrepreneurs, defines networking as making “purposeful connection.”

“It’s just coming together to connect and share. And that can be sharing any number of things,” she said.

“It can mean looking for a hairstylist, or it could mean getting a new client, or it could mean getting advice for their startup business. Women have such a broad scope of what networking actually is and what the benefits are.”

When women network, they should put the time into creating their story, she said.

“All too often, women don’t clearly communicate what they do and why they do it.”

When she has hosted workshops on how to network, she used the following exercise to help clients create their

pitches:

FOR (target customer), WHO HAS (customer need), (product name) IS A (market category) THAT (one key benefit). UNLIKE (competition), THE PRODUCT (unique differentiator). Goddard said while women are becoming more comfortable putting themselves out there than they perhaps once were, they are often still more hesitant than men.

“Men are more comfortable making

NETWORK: Continued on 22

Local creativemarketing studio offers customized ser vice for clients of all sizes

Owner Rochelle Rae is grateful to be able to help businesses in Squamish succeed

Afterover 20years in thecreativemarketing business, Rochelle Rae has learned that aone-size approach doesn’t fit all.

HerSquamish-based studio, RRM Creative, takes an individualized approach with eachclient.

“Wemake suretocater whatever we’reworking on to be exactly what the clientneeds. Notevery marketing undertaking needs to be amammoth project,” Rae says.

“There’ssomething to be said for thought-through marketing plans and incisivestrategiesfor companies of all sizes. We identify what is required and hone in on what exactly aclient needs to successfully put their message out there.”

Whether it’s aone-off project, such as anew logoor an all-encompassing creativebranding project, RRM can conceptualize, develop and implement all formsof marketing and communications in apersonalized way to meet each client’s needs.

“Webelieveinbringing our marketing back to the personand their stor y. We really take the time to understand what it is they’resoproud to be doing in their work, or the specialty they offer,” Rae says.

“Webring outthe richness in their stories.”

Beforemoving to Squamish, Rae worked for alarge creativeagency in Edmonton. When theagency unexpectedly shut its doors one day,Rae’s clients urged her to starther ownbusiness and take them on.

While her company’s beginnings were awhirlwind, Rae is proud of what she’s accomplished and is grateful she cancontinue her workinSquamish, whereshe and her husbandopted to move after starting afamily.

“Tobeable to do this in my owntownisso rewarding. Ilovewhen Isee someone I’ve been working with havetheir message out there, whether it’s on abillboard,inprint, or on social media,” Rae says.

Rae is grateful for the supportthat she’s received from her clients and her hardworking collaborators, who areenthusiastic and energized to take on any creative project.

To workwith RRMCreativeand get your message out theretoday,visit rrmcreative.com.

PHOTO LEFT: EZRA BAILEY/GETTY IMAGES. TOP RIGHT: SUBMITTED. BOTTOM; GETTY IMAGES. Cathy Goddard (top right) says there are lots of ways to network, including digitally or over co ee.

It can mean looking for a hairstylist, or it could mean getting a new client, or it could mean getting advice for their startup business. Women have such a broad scope of what networking actually is and what the benefits are.

CATHY GODDARD

Rochelle Rae

604-390-4440 @squamishdeancecentre.inc

Dance studio owner values inclusivity above all

Sub: Squamish Dance Centre inspires and accepts students of all ages

Fromaver yyoung age, Sara Constantin, studio owner/director, knew shewould neverwantanother career.B ornand raised in Squamish,dancingsince shewas threeand nowatage twenty-seven, theSquamish Dance Studio has been hergrowing businessfor six years.

“I’ve always taught dance,” she says, and “had avision to open my ownstudio for along time.”

The focus of her studio is primarily teaching dance to children, but no longer areclasses filled mainly with little girls and the occasional boyinattendance.

“The growth of the town, followedbymymorals and values of acceptance and inclusivity,wehavegrown the student body to awide male range—which is super fun,” Constantin says. “When Istarted the studio, we had three boys, nowwehaveabout 62. It helps bringing in male instructors too, they aregreat role models, and fabulous humans. Families aresodifferent than when Igrewup, so recreational and arts inclined, and dads aresosupportiveoftheir sons in dance.”

Squamish has three dance studios in town, but instead of being competitivethe owners supporteach other

“Weall complement each other well, offer different styles of dance, and appeal to different demographics,” says Constantin.

Squamish Dance Centreclasses arefilled mainly with kids, but Constantin has adult athletes taking class for improved cross training, better coordination, “improving balance, keeping nimble, all that fun stuff,” she says. “Adults whowant to move and groove,” arehitting hip hop and jazz classes too. As ayoung, female small business owner,does Constantin haveasecret to success?

“I haveasubstantial team of teachers and support them with aplatformtobecreativeand explore different ways of teaching, especially if they have struggles,” she says. “I make time for them and walk through multiple ways they can approach asolution. My team is like minded. Iamnot just looking at certifications, not just the resumé, and need to have aconnection with them and knowthat my kids will enjoythem.”

Squamish Dance Centreoffers awide variety of dance styles, and Constantin is excited that COVID-19 restrictions will nowallowher to bring back in-person recitals, studio sleepovers and pre-school teatime events.

Formoreinformation and to register,visit squamishdancecentre.com.

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Apassion for helping people find their homes drives local realtor

Jeevan Gill is proud Squamish is getting recognized as the desirable location it is

Local

realtor Jeevan Gill has lived in Squamish since she was four months old.

In that time, she’s seen the town’s reputation go from being known primarily as alogging town to agrowing and desirable place to live, especially for young families.

“I don’t think people really appreciated Squamish for ever ything it has to offer,but nowpeople havedefinitely taken notice,”Gill says.

“Squamish is the best of both worlds. It has asmall-town neighbourhood feel but you’re close to the city as well.”

Gill has worked as arealtor for the past six years, a natural extension of the real estate investment she was already doing.

Gill and her husband first started investing in real estate when they were newlyweds. They bought atownhouse and then sold it. Next, they bought ahome and renovated it. Then they movedontobuilding homes.

Based on that experience, people started coming to Gill for her opinion on real estate matters.

“People really valued our advice, especially being in construction,”Gill says.

“I felt like Ihad alot to offer in terms of my personal experiences and investments.”

While becoming arealtor was something Gill always wanted to pursue, it was complicated finding the time while her children were younger

“One day,Ijust decided Iwas going to do it,”Gill says. “What Ilike the most is helping people.”

While realty may seem glamorous on television, the reality is that ever yday Gill helps people make the biggest decisions of their lives.

“Getting families, couples and investors into that next step is something that I’mreally grateful for,” Gill says.

Oneofthe biggest demographics Gill has seen moving to Squamish areyoung families and couples who plan to havechildren. The natural beauty and access to outdoor activities, as well as the close proximity to both downtown Vancouver and Whistler make it an ideal location.

“Living in Squamish is ano-brainer.It’sjust so beautiful,”Gill says.

To workwith Jeevan Gill for all your real estate needs today,visit jeevangill.com.

Sara Constantin, owner and director of Squamish Dance Centre

Photo provided by Squamish Dance Centre.

Jeevan Gill

direct demands or a clear ask; women hesitate to ask for what they want,” she said. “And even when they do, a lot of times, the interpretation of that is kind of skewed.”

Generally speaking, women don’t usually want to talk up their accomplishments for fear of “bragging.”

“And that doesn’t get us very far,” she said, adding even though she has been in the business world for a long time, she still cringes a bit when speaking about her successes or accomplishments.

Recently, while working with a group of clients, she had them describe what they were proud of themselves for: “I am proud of — fill in the blank,” she recalled.

She also had those she coached make videos of themselves to post to the group’s private Facebook page.

“The more we do it, the easier it is,” she explained.

Goddard teaches clients that they have to sell themselves, because if not the entrepreneur, who else will?

“If the person is your ideal client, and you have the skills to do it, then you need to tell them; they’re not going to read your mind,” she said. “‘Here’s what I can offer you,’ and tell them the benefits and rewards — that’s sales 101. But often, we just don’t do that.”

Goddard acknowledges that networking and putting yourself out there works much better in-person, which has been challenging throughout the pandemic.

“So, if it’s not a room full of people, then is there the opportunity to connect with someone one-on-one and still be safe in that environment? And I think... people are going to get back to that because people are starved for

connection. Right? They’re starved for those in-person dynamics that happen,” she said, adding entrepreneurs starting out should not be afraid to pick up the phone and give people a call.

“That’s so old school, I know. But I see such amazing value in that.”

Goddard said even just getting physically out and about in town — away from

home or the office — can lead to connections. She recalled going out on a run-of-the-mill errand to the post office and running into someone interested in some coaching from her business.

Goddard added that it also falls on more veteran entrepreneurs to be mentors to those coming up behind them — to bring others into their

network.

“That can mean just having lunch with someone else in their industry and just inviting both of them for lunch [or coffee],” she said. “That’s the other side — offering it and not just waiting for people to ask because it’s hard [to ask].

Find out more about Goddard on the Lighthouse Visionary Strategies website.

Independent Professional Financial Planner gives user-friendly advice to provide you with financial protection

Sarah Braebrook helps clients understand what investments are available for best results

Comingfrom a background in banking, retail ownership, and the Canadian Armed Forces, Sarah Braebrook chose to live in Squamish while studying for her MBA.

Still, falling in love with Squamish meant a career change to financial planning instead of working in the bustling Vancouver corporate world. That said, additional training to become a certified financial planner, stockbroker and licensed life and financial insurance agent offered the perfect solution.

“During 18 years in the business, I have seen an evolution in investment products. Most people believe that an RRSP in a bank means their retirement money will be there when they want it,” she explains.

sarahbraebrook@gmail.com

“But an RRSP only means that your money is registered with the government for tax purposes. By law, bank branches cannot insure your money. Mutual funds and even stocks have no underlying guarantee.”

Braebrook cites this as to why she chose to become an independent financial planner.

“I deal with insured investment funds from companies such as Manulife and Empire Life, for example. Empire Life can guarantee a lifelong retirement income – even with a zero balance in your account.”

Braebrook has conducted seminars for novice investors and is now also pivoting to help divorced and single women and people with a retirement timeline.

“I love teaching, so translating my knowledge into userfriendly information is one of my pleasures. Hearing people who think they’ve got it all covered concerns me when I know they don’t,” Braebrook says.

“Talking to people about unknown risks and showing solutions is a responsibility I choose to fulfill. I am always happy to take a second look at anyone’s plan to search for possible improvements.”

While we are currently in the strongest investment market in histor y, many still remember double-digit interest rates and inflation. Avoiding the pain of sudden shocks and a market downturn is one of Braebrook’s primar y goals.

“Many financial planners have never lived through a down market. Long-term experience is one of the assets I bring to the table,” she says.

“My family lost its fortune in 1929, so I grew up with a serious interest in money management. I work on a commission basis. lf what I offer isn’t better, I don’t get paid. That’s why I make sure it is the best there is available.”

“Noah built the Ark before it started raining.”

PHOTO BY MAPODIL/GETTY IMAGES

Cathy Goddard says to put yourself out there, make a video and post it, like this business woman is doing from her home set up.

Professional Financial Planner Independent Insurance Agent

“Keep what you have alreadyGet more”

Sarah Braebrook B.A.

Kim Rober tson Holistic Therapies Osteopathic Manual Practitioner, Physiotherapist, Kinesiologist, Culinar yNutr itionist

416879-9099

https://kimrober tsonosteopathy.janeapp.com/

https://kimrober tsonholistictherapies.ca/home/

Osteopathic Practitioner opens doors to the Squamish community

Are youinterestedintaking your health to the next level?

Kim Robertson is an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner, Physiotherapist, Kinesiologist, and aCulinar yNutrition Expert. NewtoSquamish since moving hereinNovember 2021, Robertson held her clinical practice in Toronto for 30 years –until she received aspiritual calling.

As an Indigenous woman, she believes it was that calling that brought her “tothe healing energies of the Squamish mountains,”she says. “When people asked me ‘why Squamish?’ Isay that Squamish chose me. ”

Robertson’s new downtown practice is just launching, and she’s finding the locals warmand welcoming. “I knowthe West Coast is (generally speaking) much moreopen-minded when it comes to holistic practices,”she says, adding that even though she misses her Toronto clients, she feels right at home here.

With no shortage of physiotherapists in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor,what sets Robertson apartasanosteopathic practitioner,you ask?

“Osteopathy is the science of the relationships between all of the body’s anatomical and physiological systems,”she says, adding “it uses gentle touch to sense the subtle motions and tensions within the body to locate the source of pain or dysfunction.”Simply put, the body-mind-spirit balance is the key to optimal health.

“With all the crazy sports, and outdoor activities herein Squamish, sports therapists areneeded so aperson can hop back on those skis or that bike, but that is not me,”she laughs. “Asanosteopathic practitioner,Ihavetobeable to articulate why Iamgoing to treat someone’s head for an ankle sprain. Ihavetobeable to explain howthings areconnected throughout the body.Ifyou haveold trauma from, say, childhood, that plays apartinhow things develop in your life, and why issues keep recurring.”

Robertson’s approach complements westernmedicine, which for many patients is amodernway of supporting their wellness.

As aculinar ynutrition expertshe believes gut health is connected to immune health and is inspired by “howthe people hereinSquamish havefound abetter work-life balance and connection to nature, that is so important.”

“The connection and rapportthat Ibuild with my clients, through educating them about howtheir bodies work, not just the mechanics,”iswhat drives Robertson in her career She’shad great success in helping people with chronic pain, migraines, TMJ dysfunction, pregnancy wellness and sports injuries.

In her words, “health is morethan just the absence of pain or disease.”

To learnmoreabout Kim Robertson’s ser vices, visit kimrobertsonholistictherapies.ca

Dr.Nancy Clayton Celebrates 16 Years in Squamish

Atwell Dental leads the waywith amostly female team and advanced technology

Thedental field has always been female-dominated. Roughly 95% of all hygienists and dental assistants arewomen, and nowthe majority of graduating Dentists in NorthAmerica arefemale,” says Dr.Nancy Clayton, owner of Atwell Dental, who presently has ateam of seven women in her Squamish practice.

“Toencourage morepeople to embarkonacareer in dentistr y, my colleagues and Iput together ascholarship fund for those entering full-time studies for dental assisting, which is acrucial segment of the dental profession that is in shortsupply,” she says.

Herdental office is named after the iconic and breathtaking Atwell Peak, beautifully visible from the lobby. The décor,with its spa-like, welcoming, earthy atmosphere, gives the office an authentically natural feel, which, being in Squamish, is important.

This isn’t downtown Vancouver,and Clayton wouldn’t haveitany other way.

Originally from Scarborough, Ontario, Clayton graduated with honours from the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Dentistr yin1999 beforeentering the Dental Internship Program at Vancouver General Hospital.

Once married with afamily,“we decided to move to Squamish to raise our children.”

“Weloved Squamish because it was beautiful, and we wanted to raise our kids in asmall town that smells like cottage countr y,”she explains. “The air is so clean.” The clinic’s high-tech equipment sets them apart, including the recently installed Surgically Clean Air hospital-grade filters throughout the office, which filter via HEPAand charcoal filters, using UV lights to kill viruses and bacteria in the air

These instruments add an extra layer of protection and peace of mind for our patients and staff.

Clayton is ageneral family dentist who particularly enjoys providing “smile makeovers.”

Atwell Dental also offers BotoxCosmetic, which Clayton describes as a“fun and safe procedurethat many patients like to do while they aregetting their teeth cleaned.”

“It’sconfidential and convenient, as we arebynature,” she explains. “Weare trained to be extremely good with injections, anatomy and the musculatureofthe face –it’s just anatural fit.”

“Changing smiles changes lives,” Clayton says, adding that our smiles are“integral to howweare seen, and our self-esteem. We believeasmile is acur ve that sets ever ything straight.”

To learnmoreabout Atwell Dental or request an appointment, visit atwelldental.com.

Jill Bingham-Daniels photography

TIPS AND INSIGHTS FOR YOUNG BUSINESS WOMEN

CEO Heather Barnabe on everything from motherhood to mentorship

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Ask CEO Heather Barnabe what she hopes has changed in the workworld by the time her young daughter has grown up, and she sighs. “A lot of things,” she says.

“I would just love — and I don’t even know if it’s realistic, to be honest, but I would just love — to get to a point where decisions around motherhood are removed from our economic wealth.”

As much as the head of FORA: Network for Change, a charity that is all about fostering young women’s leadership development, has accomplished, she acknowledges motherhood still presents challenges for women in business.

“The reality that still faces women regularly is what does it mean economically for me to choose to have a child right now? And I think that’s really sad. Just because I know, in going through motherhood and seeing how complicated and complex it is, that should be the last thing that makes our decision: ‘Does it mean I won’t become a manager at work for another four years,’ or whatever it is,” she said.

Barnabe also added that she would also love for her daughter to enter a world where women in decision-making positions are the norm.

“We haven’t had a democratically elected [female] prime minister; we haven’t had a lot of power at the corporate level with women. And even when it comes to things like parliamentarians, I think we’re at something like 30 or 35% — that’s not a ton,” she said.

“Canada loves to sort of think of ourselves as a very gender-equal society. But in reality, the World Economic Forum

puts out a global gender index, and we actually ranked 24th in the world.”

She noted that Canadian women have reached parity in education and health, but there are two markers where Canadian women are way down the list.

“One is political engagement, and the other is economic advancement and opportunity. And that economic piece is really why we still need to focus on

getting women in business, making sure that they’re financially independent, able to influence decision-making [at] high levels. And you know, a lot of studies confirm that when women are in those decision-making spaces, they are able to apply a gender lens to things that makes it a better society for other women.”

MENTORSHIP: Continued on 25

From server to owner: howone woman took the reinsof this popular localeater y

Years of dedication paid of ffor owner of TheCopper Coilrestaurant

Marcie

Brenton’s passion has always beenfor the restaurant industry

The Copper Coil Still and Grill owner has worked in restaurants since shewas 16, and the restaurant industr y is afamily business –her uncle owns aWhistler eater y, Rim Rock Café.

“It’sinmyblood. It runs in my family,” Brenton says.

Originally from Vancouver Island, Brenton was attending JCI Institute in Vancouver for makeup when she ran intoafriend from Squamish who urged her to move theretoworkinarestaurantthey were opening Brenton fell in love with the town and opted to stay, working at thefriend’s restaurant beforemoving on to the Chieftain, where she worked for two years.

“A friend of mine kept asking me aboutrestaurants,” Brenton says.

“I asked him why.Hesaid hewas opening arestaurant and was taking me with him.”

Herfriend opened TheCopper Coil, aCajun-style local favourite, whereBrenton became the general manager

The original owner sold the restaurant to twoco-owners, who eventually decided Brenton was thearchitect of its

success and should ultimatelyown the restaurant. Last fall, she took over full ownership, claiming she considers the former owner amentor

“It’sall been alittle crazy because ever ything has happened so fast. I’ve never really askedfor anything from anyone. Istayedwith the programand it kindof paidoff,”Brenton says.

“It’sbeenalot to take over.Ithas been challenging, especially through COVID-19, but it’s been worth it.”

TheCopper Coil pairs the character of NewOrleansstyle Cajun food with the bounty of the Pacific Northwest.

“Our head chef puts hisheart andsoulinto ever ydish,” Brenton says

All the meat is smoked in-house. However,the menu also offers vegan and gluten-free options.

“Wewant to cater to ever yone in Squamish. We make surewehaveeverything for ever yone,”Brenton says.

That commitment to restaurant variety reflects Brenton’s appreciation for the local community.

“I’mreally thankful to the community for always rallying with us,”she says. The people havebeenreally good to me, and I’mreally thankful for ever ything.”

To learnmoreabout The Copper Coil,visit www.thecoppercoil.com.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

FORA: Network for Change CEO Heather Barnabe.

Barnabe’s own mother raised her daughter and three sons while working as a nurse.

“It was interesting watching the judgments she faced and how steadfast she was in her belief that women make better mothers when they have a career,” Barnabe recalled.

But the barriers to leadership kept her mom from the career heights she could have reached.

“I watched her excel in her career: she was a nurse who became a manager who then started managing hospitals. And it was because she was a true natural leader who had tons of skills and the charisma to do the work. And I always feel like if she had been born 50 years later, she’d be the CEO of a hospital, because she had that type of skill,” Barnabe said.

“And that’s what happens when we still live in a patriarchal society, we’re not getting the best of the best — she was the best of the best and she never had those opportunities. So when I look at my daughter, I think I want [her] to have those opportunities. I want that to be the norm.”

In her work with young women, Barnabe tells those who want to have children to consider carefully who they partner with.

“It might not even be a very feminist response, but it’s an honest one. It really matters who you choose as a partner. I mean, at the end of the day, there is truly only so many hours in your day and so really, having a partner who understands providing as much of an equitable load as they can is really critical.”

She said she does see some positive movement in the workforce to accommodate family life in workplaces.

“I think a lot of that shift is happening

because of the very good work around raising awareness on mental health and that our work affects our mental health,” she said.

“People are starting to realize, actually, it’s poor leadership to not recognize the ‘personal,’ of your staff and what they’re experiencing. That’s just poor leadership. So, I think that now that that’s changing — shifting slowly — you’re seeing a lot more, where HR is less about making sure just the company organization doing well, and is actually going, ‘We have to make sure that staff are doing well, too, because those things are so interconnected.’”

KEYS TO SUCCESS

Barnabe says for young women, there are three keys to success she passes on: confidence, networks and skills.

While the focus has often been on hard skills that people can bring to the job, the other characteristics may play a bigger role in the end, she said.

“I think that what I’ve learned in a career where... I’ve had a salary job for about 18 years now, is that the people who are most successful are not necessarily the ones with the most technical skills; they tend to be the ones with confidence, who were resilient during work situations, who are able to work well with others and navigate challenging situations,” she said, adding this is something she wishes she had known when she was a younger woman starting her career.

“What I wish I had known was the value of that confidence, the value of a really good network…to reach out to when your job’s tough to help you understand how to navigate things, to help you learn.”

Technical skills will get built over time, she added.

“But you really have to be mindful about those essential skills because the leaders that you see around you are not the people who were best at writing something specific or anything like that. [But instead are] people who really understood how to work well with other people, and how to bring out the best in other people.”

MENTORSHIP

Mentorship is key for women in business, Barnabe said.

In her organization’s work creating future leaders, Barnabe said FORA runs all of their programs with a coaching and mentoring component.

But this doesn’t mean just older women passing on knowledge to younger folks. It is a two-way street.

“We really have moved past even the notion around mentoring being top-down to really what we call sponsorship,” she said.

The more experienced women will be willing to open up their own networks for young women, to help them find things that have been relegated to, typically, old boys clubs, for example, and in the process, the senior businesswoman will learn from her younger counterpart, Barnabe said.

“Their approach to things is very refreshing, quite different, very interesting,” she recalled hearing from veterans of the business world.

“It’s really mutually beneficial.”

BUT WHAT IS SUCCESS?

Barnabe said that success is whatever each individual woman wants it to be for them.

“I think that for me, once upon a time, I used to really think about ambition as the title that you can achieve. And now I’m much more about telling young women that being truly ambitious is being very honest with yourself about what success feels like for you. And it’s not a title. It’s not something that’s so easily put down as an accomplishment,” she said.

“I always tell young women, do not let the imposter syndrome get in your way. If you feel that you can achieve something, head down and get to it. And then really build out that network of like-minded, smart people who you can turn to, and who inspire you to keep pushing through and to get there.... I think young women have exceptional leadership skills. And I want lots of them to think of themselves as leaders, again, irrespective of what your title is.”

Find out more about FORA at www. foranetwork.org.

Squamish Realtor with enthusiasm and exper tise

Mar tha McLellan makes your real estate dreams areality

Beingawoman in business in the Sea-to-Sky community continually challenges me,”says Martha McLellan of Rennie &Associates Realty Ltd. “Itraises the bar for professionalism and dedication to ser vice, and allows me to connect with the most amazing people like entrepreneurs and business owners who haveachieved great success. ”

McLellan and her family havecalled Squamish home for the past fifteen years. Shebecame aRealtor in Whistler in 2004, then shifted gears to raise her three kids, and workwith her husband in their Squamish-based Sales Agency.“Iamhappy to get back to real estate. Ihavemissed being out in the community,and Ilove what Idosomuch.”

604-848-5811

info@mar thamclellan.com

https://mar thamclellan.com/

Joining Rennie &Associates Realty Ltd. in 2021, Martha “truly believes that real estate is one of the best investments for Canadians right now. Ever yone should haveaccess to ahome, and Ilovethat youcan use different parts of this investment to grow your own portfolio,”adding that “once youown ahome youhave other opportunities like credit and equity to do other things.”

While Squamish currently has limited real estate inventor y, you’dthink the competition between Realtors would be fierce, but McLellan tells us that “atRennie, it feels like acommunity,wesupporteach other and share resources amongst our office.”Asafemale Realtor,she believes that “you earnmorerespect as youget older, your experience grows, and relationships expand. Where in some other industries women arephased out, Ifeel like Ican age well into this business.”

Working directly with clients is what motivates her,and she says, “making achange in people’s lives and problemsolving is what makes me happy at the end of the day.” First-time buyers feel comfortable with her,and those who havebeen around the real estate block afew times trust her experience. Rennie &Associates Realty Ltd. has areputation for supporting their team with advanced technolog y, project marketing, and those tools benefit their clients.

McLellan is aboardmember on the Squamish Hospital Foundation, volunteers in the Sea-to-Sky community, and is thinking about “starting an investment club for women, not just about real estate.”

To learnmoreabout Martha McLellan’s ser vices, visit the website at www.rennie.com/marthamclellan.

Canada loves to sort of think of ourselves as a very gender-equal society. But in reality, the World Economic Forum puts out a global gender index, and we actually ranked 24th in the world.

HEATHER BARNABE

FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, LE T’S:

BREAK THE BIAS

Imagine agender equal world. Aworld thatisinclusive, diverse,equitable and free of bias, stereot ypes and discrimination.

Imagine aworld wheredifferenceisnot only valued –it ’s celebrated.

We can takeaction by ac tively calling out gender bias and discrimination ever ytime we see it. Collec tively,wecan all #BreakTheBias.

Formoreinformation, visit: internationalwomensday.com

SQUAMISH NATION HEREDITARY CHIEF CHAIR OF UPCOMING ECONOMIC

RECONCILIATION SUMMIT

Ian Campbell says economic reconciliation is the opportunity to correct injustices that were imposed through colonialization

CHARLIE CAREY

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

For the first time in the Indigenous Partnership Success Showcase’s history, an Indigenous person will be chairing the summit.

Former Sk w x wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) councillor and Hereditary Chief Ian Campbell will lead the annual conference which focuses on economic reconciliation. The conference will be held at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel on May 26 and 27.

In a statement, Campbell said the two-day event provides an authentic platform for reconciliation.

“It is an opportunity to advance Indigenous partnerships within corporate Canada, and it provides an amazing venue to showcase to broad audiences the progress that has already been made.”

Campbell said economic reconciliation is the opportunity to correct injustices that were imposed through colonialization.

“With the erasure, marginalization, legislative oppression – that has really prohibited Indigenous peoples in Canada from fully participating in the economy,” he said. “It’s an opportunity to mature as a society, as we move forward, and recognize the significant contributions that Indigenous people continue to make to the quality of life for Canadians.”

Campbell said Squamish people were involved in the economy in the 1800s, however with the enaction of the Indian Act, they were deemed squatters and moved onto reserves, with no legal recourse.

“We couldn’t go to post-secondary education. Our language and culture were prohibited under Canadian law; residential schools were imposed. So it’s been a real challenge,” he said. “Part of the reconciliation component of that equation is accountability around cultural genocide. So, to move forward [and] reframe that complex dynamic, and put the lens on economic reconciliation, to me, is the path forward to create mutual benefits and values that benefit all Canadians, which includes Indigenous people.”

Practically, Campbell said that recent decisions of court cases in Canada have reaffirmed that Aboriginal title was not extinguished when British Columbia joined confederation.

“That underlying title really allowed a more fulsome discussion on responsible and sustainable use of our of our lands and resources within our territories. Where we’re not being marginalized, that we’re actually participating as regulators, we’re participating as proponents. We’re mobilizing our citizens to increase the skill sets and capacity within our families,” he said.

“I think it’s also important to remove the ambiguity for Canadians, that this is a collaboration, that it is a coming together of epistemologies, of worldviews, of our thousands of years of knowing our territories and our stewardship, with that of settlers that have come in and created a quality of life for Canadians,” he said. “This really allows us to have that discussion and dialogue.”

Campbell said he is most grateful for the Elders who mentored and guided him. Although most now have passed on, they embedded a deep sense of responsibility within him, and within the continuity of tradition, how to apply “traditional values in a modern context.”

“I’ve seen cultural revitalization with language and culture. I’ve seen political

leadership with the likes of Chief Joe Mathias, here in the Squamish Nation. But I haven’t seen a lot of business leaders,” he said. “So, my upbringing was largely around our traditional knowledge of our language, our protocols, our lands, our history, our mythology, and I used that for 22 years as a negotiator in intergovernmental relations with the Squamish Nation to create space, whether it was forestry, or Woodfibre LNG, or land development, there’s a lot of major projects with volume and magnitudes of benefits.”

However, Campbell noted that he’s always wondered who will pick up the baton, and step in and occupy these fields.

“I really wanted to push business agenda. I then did my MBA at SFU, graduating in 2015, and I found that carrying Western education with that of my traditional upbringing really allowed me to look at what distinguishes Indigenous groups that are successful business – it’s really when business matches their values and principles.”

Campbell said a robust economy existed here pre-contact with European

settlers, an economy which included extraction, manufacturing, trade and commerce. Impeded by colonial imposition, Campbell said it’s important to move forward within traditional values.

“[To] apply them in a modern context that allows some creative liberty, to then look at how do we utilize the best tools available to us in order to move beyond welfare – wealth creation, wealth management,” he said. “Abject poverty has been one of the symptoms of colonialism, which I think is unacceptable in this modern era, especially when there’s reconciliation, dialogue, and also UNDRIP Nations Declaration. … So, I think this is a real opportunity to demonstrate what is working across the country with a variety of Indigenous groups, partnering with various companies to create success.”

Speaking specifically about the IPSS showcase, Campbell is really excited by the Indigenous leaders and business leaders across the country that he has been able to connect with over the last few months.

“I looked to Chief Terry Paul of Membertou [First Nation], for example. Their partnership with premium brand Clearwater Seafood, and I get very excited, because a few years ago, we saw the conflict which was taking place on the east coast between commercial fishers and Indigenous fishers,” he said. “Now you have Membertou being the owner of those licenses. They’re now inviting the commercial fishers to come in and work with us, and for us, so I think an amazing example of leadership, and creating stability and certainty within regions in Canada that allow the economy to flourish.”

This year’s summit will also include and spotlight Indigenous women leaders, with Haisla Nation’s Crystal Smith in attendance, he said.

“Especially in light of murdered and missing Indigenous women, it’s an opportunity to really change the narrative of who and what we are as Canadians, to then look to our Indigenous women, as well as our youth, as the next cohort, the up and comers.”

More information about this year’s summit can be found at the Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase website. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.

PHOTO COURTESY INDIGENOUS PARTNERSHIP SUCCESS SHOWCASE Ian Campbell.

PHOTO BY BRIAN AIKENS UNDER CONSTRUCTION: The Oceanfront Squamish development takes shape. At build out, the development will include 100 acres of new homes, businesses, industries, green spaces and water access.

DARTS & DAFFODILS

Hoops of spring daffodils to Yoni Marmorstein, an amazing professional community basketball coach, (and founder of Hoop Reel) who drove up from the North Shore three or four times a week to volunteer as the coach for our Howe Sound Secondary Grade 10 boys! An amazing coach, role model and youth mentor — and he doesn’t even have kids in SD48 schools — yet.

Thank you, Yoni!

~An HSS Gr. 10 parent

Got something nice to say or some constructive criticism? Send your Darts & Daffodils:

Email: news@squamishchief.com or drop off at The Chief office (38117 Second Ave.) during business hours. Deadline for submissions is Monday at 4 p.m. for Thursday’s paper. All submissions must be signed and include a phone number for verification. Maximum length is 75 words. Darts are intended to be an anonymous critique between private parties. Darts must not directly or indirectly identify an individual or business.

CHECK OUT THIS THRIFT STORE’S INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY WINDOW

Pearl’s Value and Vintage ‘then’ and ‘now’ display coincides with Howe Sound Women Centre auction

JENNIFER

THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief.com

How far women have come is represented in this month’s Pearl’s Value and Vintage creative window display in downtown Squamish.

The “Then and Now” window is in honour of International Women’s Day, March 8. This display is to align with a two-weeklong, virtual, silent auction featuring locally owned businesses from the Sea to Sky Corridor.

The campaign is to benefit Howe Sound Women’s Centre.

All proceeds will go to support the underfunded programs at drop-in centres in Squamish and Whistler.

Go to www.HSWC.ca/iwd to bid.

The campaign ends on March 22.

THEN

On the left of the window display is the 1950s and 60s scene, complete with vintage advertisements representing women’s place as in the home, an aproned mannequin, a ‘baby,’ and a rotary phone

set on a retro telephone table.

“I wanted to represent the Atomic Era, which was kind of a step backwards in women’s rights,” said Valerie Nagy, assistant manager at Pearl’s and the window display’s designer.

Nagy noted that women’s rights had previously been making leaps and bounds with the suffragette movement and women taking the place of men when they went off to fight in the Second World War.

“And then after the war, there was this period, in the 50s, especially where women were kind of relegated back into the home. And, and this really traditional view of, you know, a woman as a wife and a mother,” she said.

“That’s why I have gone for specifically the 50s and early 60s kind of look because that’s the time — in my opinion — where women really kind of took a step backwards.” NOW

On the right is where women are in the modern era, represented by many

different careers that are available to women now, including a paramedics uniform.

The uniform is not for sale, Nagy stressed, but belonged to one of the store’s regulars.

All items in the window were donations to Pearl’s.

There are also depictions of famous female public figures who have broken down barriers or exposed them,

The first item for the window display Nagy found about a year ago when someone dropped off a bunch of fake lemons to Pearl’s.

“I was just looking at these lemons. And I’m like, ‘You know what, I can use these. Because when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade, right?’”

Like many things that happen at Pearl’s it was serendipitous that on the day she was to organize the window, she was looking through books to put in the display and discovered the “How to Squeeze a Lemon,” cookbook to go with the decorative lemons.

“I don’t even know why that cookbook

would exist, but it’s there. It is at Pearl’s. It’s perfect timing,” she said, with a laugh. “And it was my favourite part of it. Things just fell into place, you know, as they often do at Pearl’s.”

Nagy said as far as women have come, society has to stay vigilant where women’s rights are concerned.

There are some who seem to want to reverse things back to the bygone era represented in the “Then” window, she said, pointing to the rollback of abortion laws in some parts of the U.S. “Attitudes can backslide quite easily,” she said.

In addition to the window display, Pearl’s is also hosting a selfie wall out front with a graphic to promote equality.

This is to align with the internationalwomensday.com campaign to promote breaking the bias (#breakthebias) where people can make a statement selfie in an arms-crossed stance to show their support for the cause, Nagy said.

People are encouraged to use the custom hashtag and tag @womenscentre in their selfie posts.

PHOTOS COURTESY VALERIE NAGY

The International Women’s Day window at Pearl’s Value & Vintage.

THIS SPRING BREAK HERE’S SOMETHING ELSE TO DO WITH THE KIDS AT

BRITANNIA MINE MUSEUM

Mini Mud Monsters is educational programming inside the museum’s Terralab STEAM learning space

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Looking for something to do with the kids in the Sea to Sky Corridor this spring break?

The Britannia Mine Museum is bringing back its children-friendly “Mini Mud Monsters” educational programming inside their Terralab STEAM learning space.

At hands-on, drop-in sessions, participants will see what microorganisms in our freshwater ecosystems look like up close and learn about human impacts of metals and mining.

The sessions are included with general admission to the museum.

Interpreters will show the live insects and worms that have been collected from nearby Britannia Creek, as well as preserved specimens.

“We’re offering it in the afternoons as sort of a follow-up to be public tours that the majority of our visitors will be attending,” said Derek Jang, manager of interpretive delivery at the Britannia Mine Museum.

“Because, we’ll already have addressed the remediation challenges of this mine and the ways that, for a time, uncontrolled copper was polluting the waters of Britannia Creek and suppressing the animal life that was found there, we want to show visitors what kinds of signs can be used to demonstrate the recovery.”

Jang said staff at the museum are keeping track of what creatures are in Britannia Creek using a scientific biological sampling net.

“And then we’re referring to research

papers and have grouped those animals in terms of how likely they are to be found in waters that are heavily contaminated. And

the great news that we’re hoping everybody will be able to take away from is that the real animals that they’re seeing on our

SCHEDULE

The “Mini Mud Monsters” drop-in sessions take roughly between eight and 11 minutes and will run between 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. on the following days:

Saturday, March 12

Sunday, March 13

Monday, March 14

Thursday, March 17

Saturday, March 19

Sunday, March 20

Monday, March 21

Thursday, March 24

Saturday, March 26

Sunday, March 27

microscopes are telling a story that the water quality in the creek is now safe for even some of the most sensitive animals that are naturally a part of these ecosystems in B.C.,” he said.

COVID-19 protocols include masks indoors.

Find out more about the exhibit and the museum online at www.britanniaminemuseum.ca.

PHOTO COURTESY BRITANNIA MINE MUSEUM Britannia Mini Mud Monsters is on this spring break.

CHILDHOOD TRAUMA, LACK OF ATTACHMENT CAN LEAD TO CRIME

Criminal psychologist on a common thread among serious offenders and what we can do to stay safe from them

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

The acts of depravity that no one wants to think about are what Eric Hickey, a Canadian criminal psychologist now living in California, and a faculty member in the department of forensic psychology at Walden University has made his life’s study.

Hickey has more than 40 years of experience in forensics, working with the criminally insane, psychopaths, sex offenders and other habitual criminals.

He works with law enforcement and testifies as an expert witness in criminal and civil cases.

The Squamish Chief caught up with Hickey by phone to find out how folks end up as serious criminals and what Squamish folks can do to be safer from such crimes.

What follows is an edited version of that conversation.

Q: What drew you to this type of work?

A: I’m from Canada, originally, and I was going to become a Mountie — a cop. But I couldn’t pass the eye exam; they didn’t have contacts back in those days.

So, I went on to graduate school and got some good opportunities there. I worked in the state hospital for the criminally insane for almost three years. I worked with sex offenders, rapists, child molesters, pedophiles and psychopaths.

Then I moved to California because of its level of crime.

There’s a lot of crime out here and many people to study, research, and publish about.

I do love my work. I will never retire.

I really like to do research and publishing, and I enjoy teaching. I also love consulting work. I consult with private agencies and

testify as an expert witness in both criminal and civil cases.

Q: Is there something common among all the serious offenders you have worked with?

A: For mass murderers, serial killers, rapists, serial arsonists, I would say a lot of trauma, childhood trauma. That’s very common.

There’s a lack of attachment. That’s the common denominator amongst those who

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are seriously violent offenders. If we could do one thing in the world, it would be to reduce domestic violence. I think that would reduce the number of offenders because it’s a lack of attachment and childhood trauma. There’s neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse — all those things damage a child.

Q: But, sadly, many of us have had childhood traumas or abuse in our lives. In

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your view, what would have steered even those with trauma away from the acts that they’ve done?

A: Many people have trauma in childhood, but they don’t turn out to become offenders. Because genetically, biologically, we have things about us that protect us. We can handle stressors better than some other

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PHOTO BY VITAPI/GETTY IMAGES

Playgrounds are great fun, but parents should keep their eyes on their kids at all times — like this parent is doing, says a criminal psychologist.

CRIME: Continued on 31

people. That’s one area. Another area is nurturing: having, outside our family, peers, religion, relatives or friends who can influence us. And so it’s just not one stroke. It is not a dichotomy, either/or. And I think the majority of people get into therapy; they learn how to manage their trauma.

Q: I want to be careful never to blame victims for their crimes, obviously, but in terms of who predators pick to victimize, what are they looking for?

A: Access.

When we are talking about sexual assaults, 75% are done by people you know.

The younger victims are, the easier it is for a perpetrator within the family or acquaintance to perp on them. So, that’s really important to consider — access.

Less common are perpetrators who want a specific type of victim.

With pedophilia and child molesters creeping around kids, they want to spend time with children. Healthy men don’t want to spend a lot of extra time with other people’s children. For example, they would likely not volunteer to babysit someone else’s children.

Disabled children are three times more likely to be sexually assaulted than nondisabled children because they can’t fight back. Often, they can’t talk about it.

And there are tens of thousands of predators online. Most teenagers are quite tech-savvy, but the ones who are being abused, the ones who lack attachment, are easy prey for these offenders.

The victims may not be aware of their surroundings. Women always have to be aware of their surroundings. We live in a world where if you aren’t aware of your surroundings, you could be victimized, and that’s an unfortunate commentary on our society, but that’s where it is.

Q: I think most of us have a sense that we

ERIC HICKEY

would recognize a predator if they were in our lives, but I imagine you would say that isn’t the case?

A: The truth is, predators, tend to be the ones who can hide the best.

It can be a therapist, religious leader, teacher, nurse, scout leader, etc.

We need to be far more vigilant because some of the nicest people we meet are offenders. They just cover it up.

And I think people look the other way. They don’t want to be involved. They don’t want to report things. We have a duty to really be very careful about who we hire to watch our kids, and that we check on them.

Interesting when we talk about offenders, especially with violent crime, if there’s a woman involved, usually there’s a man involved too. They typically don’t do violence by themselves. For example, 85% of serial killers are male, 15% are female. Women are socialized differently than men when they are growing up. Women are much more likely to become promiscuous or be runaways, have suicide attempts as ways of crying for help, rather than turning to violence.

Q: We hear of things like abuse of animals as signs of early deviancy that can lead to someone becoming a serious violent offender, but are there other signs?

A: Chronic problems at school, bullying,

ARTH

poor school performance — though of course, those aren’t always signs. I had terrible grades in high school.

And of course, harming animals. It is interesting because sometimes kids, with other kids, will harm an animal. The parents find out about it and tell the kid not to do it again. And the kids don’t do it anymore. But when a child is suffering, and they don’t have a voice, that behaviour becomes their voice. And they will continue to do it, even when they are punished for it because it is the way they are expressing themselves.

Fire-setting is another behaviour.

I will give you an example from several years ago; a six-year-old had been setting fires since he was three. He had burned down two houses and a garage. The parents wanted me to interview the kid, but I wanted to start with the family.

The mother worked a lot and the father, who had been in and out of jail a few times, was the primary caregiver to the children. It turned out that one of their children had previously died. The six-year-old was a baby at the time. His older brother had been playing with the father’s matches and started a fire. The three-year-old sibling died in the fire. As the kids grew up, the father told them that if they had not been playing with matches, their brother would be alive.

When I finally interviewed the little boy who was starting fires, I asked him how he felt when he lit fires and he said “magic.” He thought if he could set a fire again, he could see his brother again.

The child was removed from the home and never started another fire. You can see that childhood can really mess kids up.

Q: You hear a lot of awful things. How do you feel safe?

A: For me, the hardest part is my interviews about children. I have 14 grandchildren, and the idea of one of them being victimized — it’s very painful to think about children being victimized. That is probably the part where I have to check myself very carefully. I

have to make sure I am being objective in my interviews.

Q: Do you have a therapist?

A: No. I live on four acres. I clear my land and burn brush and plant trees and flowers and take care of my students and do my research and publishing. So, I’m pretty active, pretty busy. My wife works for the FBI and she’s a marriage and family therapist by trade, so we have some good conversations.

Q: Knowing what you know, what do you tell your own children and grandchildren to keep them safe?

A: You always have to be on your guard when you’re in public. Parks are a great place to visit with kids, but never take your eyes off of them. They are also great places for child molesters and pedophiles.

Be mindful of who is watching your kids. We live in a world where it’s a wonderful place to be, but be on guard.

Q: What advice do you have for young people who may want to get into forensic or criminal psychology?

A: I always tell students, you have to know how to network. You have to join organizations in forensic psychology. Co-author with people. And you also have to develop your expertise. You want to make a name for yourself.

I don’t do therapy, assessments, treatment, I do more investigative work. I do dark, dark work. I work on cases involving sex crimes, homicide, stalking, that dark, dark stuff. That is not for everybody. But there are other areas such as threat assessments. That’s such a great field to get into, because there is such a need for that.

We see more women coming into the field and that is fantastic. We need that perspective. We need People of Colour, different religions, coming from different countries. So that we have more expertise from different perspectives.

To learn more about the programs in forensic psychology at Walden, go to www.waldenu. edu.

SQUAMISH BAHÁ’Í COMMUNIT Y

Climate Crisis as a Catalyst for a Culture of Equality

It is precisely in times of turbulence where profound opportunities exist to redefine collective values and the assumptions that underlie them. The challenges posed by climate change should serve as catalysts to embrace new approaches to inclusive forms of gover nance as well as just patter ns of community life capable of unlocking the whole range of human experience.

Amidst mounting climate risks, it is becoming clearer how much humanity benefits when women’s leadership is embraced and promoted at every level of society, whether in the family, community, local gover nment, corporation, or nation. Qualities of leadership typically associated with the masculine— assertiveness and competitiveness, for example—have proven limited when not tempered by those typically associated with the feminine, such as an inclination toward collaboration and inclusion, and a disposition toward care and selflessness.

Young and old alike, the experiences of women offer profound insight into safeguarding humankind’s home, the present generation, and those still to come. Ensuring the potential of women is fully har nessed will require action on at least two fronts: increasing women’s presence in leadership roles and creating conditions for women to engage more meaningfully in community life.

Excerpt from Heart of Resilience– for full document

We need to be far more vigilant because some of the nicest people we meet are offenders. They just cover it up.

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Email the upcoming event info to: jthuncher @squamishchief.com

LOCAL STUDENT LEADS THE CHARGE AT THE PARALYMPICS

Mollie Jepsen of Quest University secures the first medal for Canada in Beijing

THE CHIEF STAFF

ASquamish student has won Canada’s first Paralympic gold in Beijing.

When not dominating the slopes, Mollie Jepsen studies at Quest University.

The 22-year-old para-alpine skier managed to secure her podium victory on March 4 with a time of 1:21.75 in the women’s standing downhill.

This isn’t the first time Jepsen led the charge for Canada during the Paralympics. In the 2018 Winter Games, she also captured Canada’s first medal by taking bronze.

Having claimed the fifth Paralympic medal

of her young career, the West Vancouver native has been on a tear this season, hitting the podium in all 10 of her international races.

But the lead up to her latest performances has not been easy.

Following an outstanding four-medal Paralympic debut in 2018, Jepsen was sidelined by Crohn’s disease for all of the following season.

Just after the disease went into remission, the pandemic struck, hindering the amount of time she could spend on the slopes.

However, the time off did have its benefits.

“Being able to spend a lot of time training at home was actually hugely beneficial,” Jepsen said of the past two years, in a report from The Canadian Press

“I’ve raced a lot in my life, because I was racing able-bodied before I went onto the Para circuit, and so I felt comfortable taking a step back, and training in the pandemic allowed us to go very far back to basics.

“I think on race day, it was all that trust and confidence in yourself, knowing that you’ve really put in the work. I saw a lot of great silver linings in what’s happened ... and came out a lot better and stronger.”

Jepsen has been skiing since she was two years old, and, as a para-alpine skier, she specializes in high speed events like downhill and super-G.

“I was born a partial hand amputee on my left side, so I‘m missing a few fingers,” Jepsen said in a release from Quest University. “It really doesn’t affect me in many ways in my

life, but in ski racing it means I’m only skiing with one pole.”

As she grew up, developed a reputation after competing against able-bodied skiers. She recalls a tweet early on that someone sent to the Para Alpine team, ‘Keep an eye out for this girl, she’s out here skiing with one pole and it’s pretty awesome.”

Aside from having fans here in Squamish, the Quest student is also getting other forms of local support.

As she competes in Beijing, she wears a local keepsake — a new helmet featuring a design by Sk w x wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) artist Xwalacktun (Rick Harry).

-With files from Pique Newsmagazine, The Canadian Press and North Shore News

Mollie Jepsen, before she left Squamish, with her previous medals, in action on the slopes and studying at Quest University.

SEA TO SKY AXEMEN HOST GIRLS CAN RUGBY DAY EVENT FOR CORRIDOR YOUTH

Axemen one of 18 clubs in B.C. to host a girl-centric event

HARRISON BROOKS Pique Newsmagazine

With blue skies and sunshine, the weather co-operated beautifully for the first Girls Can Rugby Day hosted by the Sea to Sky Axemen in Squamish on Sunday, March 6.

Approximately 14 girls were on hand at Don Ross Middle School to participate in drills and games designed to get the kids moving while teaching them the basics of the sport.

According to Annabel Kehoe, CEO of BC Rugby, the Axemen’s girl’s rugby day was one of 18 similar events happening across the province on the same day, with a 19th club in Fernie planning to hold theirs once the snow melts in the spring.

Those 19 participating clubs represent nearly one-third of the 60 total clubs in the province.

“I’m really excited by it,” said Kehoe. “We’ve always known that there is this huge opportunity to grow female participation in our sport and our clubs are key to that, so to see so many of them put their hands up and volunteer to be part of this campaign has been really encouraging, and I’m confident that those that are participating are going to give the young girls a really fun day and a really great introduction to our sport.”

In the spring of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic shut down all youth sports across the province. Rugby registration numbers have started to return to normal this year, but participation among youth girls has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels—something Kehoe hopes this girls-centric rugby day can

help fix.

“Before the pandemic, our female membership represented close to 40% of all rugby players in the province, and at the moment, in [the five-to-14] age group, we are only seeing 20% of females representing that player base, and we want to rebalance that,” said Kehoe.

“We want girls and their parents to know that girls can rugby, that this sport is for them and that this is a sport that has real opportunity. We have more and more universities in Canada offering rugby scholarships to young women, and we just believe that rugby is such a great sport for helping people become empowered.

“We have a place for all shapes and sizes on the pitch … that’s really empowering and

very affirmative for these young girls, and at these ages that’s really important.”

The Axemen’s Emily Van Duin, who took the lead in running the event, has been playing rugby for nearly 20 years. Starting in middle school with no previous knowledge of the sport, Van Duin believes rugby today is much more accessible to youth girls than it was for her and hopes events like Girls Can Rugby Day “opens the eyes of these girls” and gets more girls interested in exploring the game.

“I think it’s great. This wasn’t an opportunity for me when I was a kid, so all these girls who are coming up here and getting involved in the sport is super awesome,” she said.

“Just having a free event like this where

people can just show up and girls can run around have fun with other girls, I think it’s awesome.”

One of those girls getting her first experience in the sport was Piper Walsh, who said she now wants to keep playing rugby as much as she can after learning about it at the event.

And while she didn’t give much in the way of long-winded answers, electing to keep her responses short and sweet, she said the best part was “getting to run around a lot” and have fun learning a new sport with other girls her age.

As an added bonus for the events across the province, BC Rugby will send the club with the most participants to BC Place over Easter weekend to watch an HSBC Canada Sevens match — and the club will get to run out on the pitch during the intermission.

Moving forward from this event, James Butterworth, coach of the Axemen’s U11 program, hopes that enough interest is raised for girls rugby in B.C. that multiple clubs can form girls-only teams and start travelling for matches and jamborees in the spring.

“Rugby in general is quite an inclusive sport. There is always a spot for anyone—big, small, fast, slow—but it’s also a good way to meet new people and generate these long-lasting friendships and associations,” he said.

“Obviously, what we’d like to see is for the people to come down to be interested and engaged and want to come back and try to develop and build this potential team moving forward ... that would be fantastic even just to get a few extra players, just to expand rugby in the community.”

Meet Olive!

PHOTO BY HARRISON BROOKS

Sea to Sky Axemen’s Emily Van Duin puts the girls through some drills while carrying her infant daughter on her back at the Girls Can Rugby Day event held at Don Ross Middle School on the morning of Sunday March 6.

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Previously

It’s with great sorrow we announce the passing of Carolyn May Wold at her home on Jan 28. She was 70 years old.

Carolyn hailed from the north Island, born in Port Alice in 1951. She spent her years in Quatsino, Coal Harbour, Vancouver, Squamish, Victoria and ultimately Ladysmith. A warm thanks to Dr. Wenzell-Smith for her assistance at the end. Carolyn was a profound lover of books, cats and good coffee.

She will be dearly missed by her (pre-deceased brother –Tony’s) family, Shirley and kids, sister Kathy (and all of her family), son Trevor (Marija), daughter Rhiannon & grandchildren Taylor and McKenzie.

And of course her cat, Kobi.

At Carolyn’s request there won’t be any service, but any donations to animal rescues/shelters or literacy programs, will surely earn a toast and a tip of her ale from the heights of Valhalla.

Kenneth (Ken) Or eld Iverson

passed away peacefully on ursday January 13, 2022, in Nanaimo BC.

Survived by his sons, Larry (Cecile) of Montreal Quebec and Lance (Jane) of Britannia Beach, BC, grandchildren, James, Jody (Cameron) and Olivier, cousin Aileen Beasley, his dear friend Margaret Law and many friends and family members near and far. Predeceased by Elizabeth Iverson (nee Bonsall), mother of his children, his beloved daughter, Christine, grandson, Maxime and his siblings James, Allan, Henry, Charles, Shirley, Joseph, Ruby, Hazel and Leo.

Ken was born and raised on the farm in Naicam, Saskatchewan. His parents were Joseph and Ella (nee Lee) Iverson.

applica�on may be submi�ed in two ways:

1) Online via the Applica�ons and Reasons for Decision Database website at: h�ps://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ applica�ons.

2) By mail to the Senior Land Officer at 200 – 10428 153rd Street, Surrey, BC V3R 1E1. Comments will be received by the Ministry of Forests Lands Natural Resource Opera�ons and Rural Development un�l April 14th, 2022. Comments received a�er this date may not be considered.

Be advised that any response to this adver�sement will be considered part of the public record. For informa�on, contact Informa�on Access Opera�ons at the Ministry of Technology, Innova�on and Ci�zens’ Services in Victoria at: www.gov.bc.ca/citz/iao/.

Ken followed in the footsteps of his older brothers and came west to BC in his mid-teens. He was hired by the Federal Government to work maintaining the lighthouses and sailed to many ports up and down the Paci c coast. At the time of his marriage, he and Betty moved to Youbou, B.C. for a year before settling in Honeymoon Bay BC to raise their family where Ken worked in the Sawmill. A job opportunity as head sawyer in the newly opened Weldwood Sawmill prompted a move for the family to Squamish in 1963. In his later years Ken worked for BC Rail and later CN Rail in the Carpenter Shop. Ken retired on Vancouver Island and lived for many years in the Comox Valley.

Ken’s love of woodworking was always prominent in his life. He could often be seen about town with his signature walking stick sporting his favourite hat. Ken had a vivid imagination and loved to work with found objects. He created a lasting legacy of many beautiful musical instruments treasured by friends and family. Ken enjoyed long walks, a good book, people watching and Sunday morning Church services. He never lost his love for farming and knew how to drive a team of horses, a story he was proud to tell. Donations would be appreciated in Ken’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada or a charity of your choice.

Please join our family and friends on Sunday May 1, 2022, for a Celebration of Ken’s life in e Little Red Church Hall from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. 2182 Comox Ave., Comox BC.

DONALD BRUCE Ellis, 1947-2022, Whitehorse, Yukon, passed away February 20, 2022, leaving his “True Love, Carol”, Whitehorse, with friends, relatives across Canada.

Merle Lawrence Aragon

Geewheyshewts-t

‘Murdoch’ ‘Squirrel’ ‘Merna’

Sunrise: July 16, 1972 - Sunset: Feb 26, 2022

We advise of the passing of Merle Lawrence Aragon on February 26, 2022 in North Vancouver surrounded by love of family. Merle was born to his late parents

Edward & Myrtle ‘Mickey’ Aragon on July 16, 1972, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. He grew up in Bernalillo, New Mexico and Xwmélch’stn (Capilano

I.R. # 5.) Merle attended Norgate Elementary, St. Edmunds Elementary, Queen Mary Elementary, and Keith Lynn Alternative Secondary School. He loved Boxing and was a Golden Gloves Champion. He also loved Football, and was a Gordon Sturtridge Football League Champion, North Shore. He was an avid fan of the Vancouver Canucks, Seattle Seahawks, Toronto Blue Jays, Professional Boxing, and the WWE.

Merle worked at Firestone Tires, Oasis Car Wash, Aspestos Removal, and was a fantastic carver. He was a family man through and through, he loved his sisters and late brother with his whole heart and when his nieces and nephews were born he was always involved cheering them on and being silly, fun uncle. Merle had a great personality. He was young at heart, straightforward, witty, caring, stubborn, and so loving. He will be greatly missed.

Merle is survived by his siblings Marie (Brad), Wendy (Gene), Victoria, Doris, Jacqueline, June, Thomas (Tracey), Randy (Natalie); nieces and nephews Sylvia (Jeri), Bradley, Elliot, Leanne, Charlene (Lucius), Cory (Sheridan), Sam, Calistea (Clayton), Ashley, Willard, Shayne, Clayton, Gerald ‘Dobee’, Shandrea, Megan, Danica (Dennis), Summer (Justin), Rennie, Michael (Kate), Vanessa, Doug (Ashley), Chloe, Mary Anna, Charlie, Hailey, Jordan, Felicity, Karley and many, many loving relatives and dear friends.

A Shaker prayer service was held on March 2; and a Funeral Service on March 3, 2022 at SN Shaker Church, North Vancouver.

Online condolences can be found at www.dignitymemorial.com

Gertie Ellen August ‘Gerda’

Sunrise: September 2, 1954

Sunset: February 28, 2022

With great sadness we advise of the passing of our dear elder Gertie Ellen August on February 28, 2022 at home in North Vancouver surrounded by the love of her family. Gertie was fondly known as Gerda. Gerda was born to her late parents William ‘Buffalo’ and Phyllis (nee: Natrall) Mathias Joe at St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC. Gerta grew up on Xwmélch’stn Beach (Capilano IR No. 5) in West Vancouver. She attended Norgate Elementary School, Hamilton Junior Secondary, and Sprott Shaw College where she got first aid 1 & 2, home and community care, and Nurse Aide certificates. She spent much of her life working for the Squamish Nation, taking care of our elders and vulnerable members. Gerda was a proud mom and grandma; she instilled good values and teachings. She enjoyed travelling all over to warm places like Cuba and the Dominican Republic. Gerda also went across Canada on CN Rail to memorable places like Alberta, and Ontario.

Gerda is survived by and will be dearly missed by her loving children Jody August, John August, Ronald Slotzberg; grandchildren Anabella, Elijah, Tameron, Chloe; siblings Rocky Mathias Joe, ‘Aggie’ Paul (Maynard), Rose Seipp (George), ‘Katie’ August, Amanda O’Donoghue (Phillip), Florence Morton (Bob), Cody Mathias (Bernadine), Dulcie August, Ellen Mathias-Joe (Ryan); spouse Joe Pitman; and many loving relatives and dear friends.

A Catholic/Shaker prayer service was held on Mar 7 at 7pm, and a Catholic/Shaker Funeral Service on March 8, 2022 at 10am; both at Chief Joe Mathias Centre. Livestreaming will be available at www.funeraweb.tv Online condolences can be found at www.dignitymemorial.com

Sea to Sky McDonald ’s Hiring Fair

We are a proven leader in residential home and estate building in Whistler. We partner with the best architects, designers and trades in the industry. World class, custom projects require commitment and dedication from our partners and our team of craftspeople.

We have several signi cant projects currently in progress across Whistler and we are looking for individuals who are keen to build a rewarding career with a company that values quality workmanship. We are currently hiring for Finish Carpenters, Carpenters, Apprentices, and Labourers.

EVR is committed to the long-term retention and skills development of our employees - we are only as good as our team. We are passionate about investing in the future of our workforce, and offer:

• Competitive Wages

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If you love what you do and have a desire to work on architecturally-beautiful and sophisticated custom homes while growing your career with a renowned Whistler builder, please get in touch. You can send your resume to info@evr nehomes.com and can view our work at www.evr nehomes.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Please send cover letter and resume to admin@alpinescaffolding.com

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And if you’re a local – well, you know you’re in the right place to forge a career and lucky to call Squamish home.

We’ve got an opportunity to work and truly be a part of this inspired community at its media hub, The Squamish Chief. We’re part of Glacier Media Group and Local News Network, the largest local digital network in Canada. We work with our clients to offer cutting edge solutions like programmatic, Social, SEO, sponsored content and community display advertising on our website – and yes, we reach customers through our trusted newspaper as well. We’ve got media opportunities covered.

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SUDOKU

HOW TO PLAY:

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Each 3 x 3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3 x 3 box.

SCRIBBLE BOX

HOROSCOPE WEEK OF MARCH 10, 2022 - MARCH 16, 2022

ARIES

You’ll take on a challenge that fills you with pride. Even if some people try to discourage you, your perseverance and boldness will allow you to accomplish brilliant feats.

TAURUS

If you’re planning to move soon, you’ll take the first steps toward making it happen. A family member will be overly demanding and may abuse your generosity.

GEMINI

You’ll travel a lot and may get lost looking for accommodations or become stuck in a traffic jam. Double-check important information to make sure you understand it.

CANCER

At work, you’ll put in some generously rewarded overtime. A short training course will help you achieve one of your biggest professional dreams, even if it’s just to become more fluent in another language.

LEO

You’ll be pressured to make a difficult decision and won’t have time to weigh the pros and cons. Follow your heart. Affection and material comfort go hand in hand; pay close attention to both.

VIRGO

Now is the time to complete any unfinished projects. Analyze your situation from a long-term perspective. Doing this will allow you to find the right path. If you have a significant other, book a romantic getaway.

LIBRA

Your friends will invite you to go out and have fun. Take advantage of this opportunity if you haven’t been out in a while. If you’re single, you’ll find love.

SCORPIO

Time is a key commodity. You must handle emergencies at work and home. It’s not always easy to balance work and family obligations. You’ll be very busy this week.

SAGITTARIUS

Before spring, take a rejuvenating trip with your partner or family, even if it’s just a weekend getaway. You may have to travel for work.

CAPRICORN

You’re dealing with many strong emotions. Stay levelheaded when solving your financial problems. Keeping a smile on your face will strengthen your current romantic relationship or help you find a partner.

AQUARIUS

You’ll organize a professional or personal event that brings together many different people. You may become stressed out about getting every little detail just right.

PISCES

You may feel anxious, which could affect your concentration or morale. Don’t let yourself be overwhelmed by emotions that aren’t yours. Going to therapy or moving your body will help you feel refreshed.

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