February 22, 2024 - Squamish Chief

Council OKs pursuit of increasing fines up to $3,000 and increasing short-term definition to less than 90 days

ANDREW

ahughes@squamishchief com

Squamish vacation rental hosts could soon face harsher fines if they are not in compliance with District of Squamish regulations

At the Feb 13 committee of the whole meeting, District planner Aja Philp updated the five council members present on short-term rental (STR) compliance in Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford and Coun Jenna Stoner were absent from the meeting as they were attending a provincial housing summit

After a lengthy discussion, council unanimously voted to direct staff to align the municipal definition of STR to the provincial definition, which would define a short-term rental as a stay of less than 90 days compared with the current less than 30 days Additionally, fines could increase from $500 to $3,000 per infraction, per day Lastly, staff will also

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Howe Sound Dance Academy’s Annie Derrick during a recent pre-competition performance at the Eagle Eye Community Theatre Competitive dance season for

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SD48 TO SUPPORT TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES

A group of residents asked the District for more traffic calming measures, and Sea to Sky School District agrees

SCOTT TIBBALLS

stibballs@piquenewsmagazine

com

The Sea to Sky School district (SD48) will be writing in support of traffic calming measures around local schools in response to a request from some Squamish residents.

The district board discussed the issue at the recent committee of the whole meeting on Feb. 14, with assistant superintendent Paul Lorette explaining that the district has received correspondence from locals concerned about traffic on Third Avenue in Squamish, between Pemberton Avenue and Bailey Street, which is a popular walking route for students headed to and from Squamish Elementary and Howe Sound Secondary from downtown Squamish

“What they are saying is that a number of school children are walking along that route up to a crosswalk on their way to school, and if you look at a map, it is actually a high likelihood that there is a significant number of students who would take that route

“They say the problem is traffic is very fast, they’re not stopping at the crosswalk [on Third]. They’re asking for a three-way stop be put in at Bailey Street and Third Avenue; they’re asking for a school zone be established on that stretch, and for speed bumps to be put on either side of the crosswalks.”

Lorette said that the district had been asked for a letter of support for greater traffic calming measures along the road, which would be passed along to the District of

the impact they had on drivers with spinal injuries, while saying that other traffic calming measures would be welcomed

Overall, the board showed no opposition to the ask, but concerns were raised over focusing too much attention on one area of concern when there could be other roads in the municipality where traffic calming was also needed.

The board decided to write a general letter of support encouraging greater traffic calming measures around schools while using the Third Avenue stretch between Pemberton Avenue and Bailey Street as an example

The segment of the meeting discussing the ask can be watched on the SD48 YouTube channel; it begins at 47:57

CORRECTION

The Squamish Chief is issuing a correction for the story titled “New 204-unit apartment building OK’d for downtown” printed on Feb 8, 2024

Squamish.

When asked about whether it was a new route for students, Lorette explained it was an area of town that had been built up over the last 10 years.

“There’s quite a large townhouse development back there; there’s townhouse developments and condo developments at

the south end of Squamish, so this would be a route that families and students would take.”

The crosswalk in the middle of Third was noted to have difficult sight lines due to parking.

Board member Lisa Turpin expressed opposition to installing speed bumps given

The printed story read that Coun Eric Andersen “was more in favour of adding natural colours of the local temperate rainforest environment in Squamish.” However, Andersen was more in favour of adding colours beyond the OCP policy of using natural colours of the local temperate rainforest environment in Squamish.

The Chief apologizes for any confusion this may have caused

PHOTO BY SCOTT TIBBALLS/THE SQUAM SH CH EF

The district has received correspondence from locals concerned about traffic along this stretch, on Third Avenue between Pemberton Avenue and Bailey Street, which is a popular walking route for students headed to and from Squamish Elementary and Howe Sound Secondary from downtown Squamish

RENTALS: Continued from 1

explore eliminating monthly licensing and updating the annual licence fee, in hopes of reducing work for administrative staff and increasing local compliance

These amendments will be reviewed by council again before being set in stone

“I do support increasing the fees and becoming more aggressive in our enforcement We’ve had a couple years with a lot of warnings, a lot of public information [and] education, and we’ve seen compliance rates remain fairly low,” said Coun Chris Pettingill

For context, Philp said that the STR licensing compliance rate in 2023 was 48%, a slight drop from 2022 at 49% However, the total number of units in non-compliance increased from 98 in 2022 to 161 in 2023 There was a similar jump for compliance going from 95 units in 2022 to 146 in 2023

“We received 38 public complaints, 103 properties were flagged for enforcement, 25 warning letters were sent out, and 18 fines were issued,” she said of 2023 enforcement by the District. The District report on the matter noted that this was the highest number of complaints received since they instituted the regulations.

“I’m also in favour of increasing the fines, though it sounds like these $3,000 fines aren’t likely to be frequently issued. But it’s still nice to have that serve as a deterrent for non-compliance,” said Coun. Lauren Greenlaw. “And for the record, I’m also in favour of fining more people who aren’t in compliance as a general rule ”

While Coun Andrew Hamilton said he was not opposed to fine increases and he would like to see how these fines compare to other bylaw infractions

The District limited short-term rentals in November 2020 to primary residences, although they allowed up to 30 temporary use permits (TUPs) for secondary suites or accessory dwelling units, such as coach houses The goal was to stabilize the long-

I do support increasing the fees and becoming more aggressive in our enforcement.

COUN. CHRIS PETTINGILL

term rental supply in Squamish

“It’s estimated that suites and accessory dwelling units continue to represent a significant portion of the STR inventory in Squamish,” said Philp “Staff conducted a search through the descriptions of local STR listings on Airbnb for the term suite and we found a total of 56 results ”

The report noted only 14 of the 30 available TUPs were used in 2023.

The province’s rules, however, allow primary residences plus one secondary suite or accessory dwelling unit to be used for a STR by a homeowner. Hamilton said he was concerned by this lack of alignment.

“As we know, just because a suite comes out of the STR market doesn’t mean it enters the long-term market,” he said. “So, to me, it’s not clear that the cost of the enforcement of the secondary suites is going to be worth the addition to our rental stock.”

Also as part of these new rules, Philp said B C will be requiring STR platforms, like Airbnb or VRBO, to share data with the province which will then share with municipal governments

“If a listing does not include a valid business licence number, the STR platform must remove the listing at the request of the local government,” said Philp

View this council meeting on the District’s YouTube channel or read the District report on council’s Feb 13 agenda

FIVE-STOREY, MIXED-USE DOWNTOWN PROJECT MOVES FORWARD

By a 4-1 vote, council moved a project at Cleveland and Winnipeg to be considered for three readings

ANDREW HUGHES

ahughes@squamishchief.com

Amixed-used development may finally come to an empty lot in downtown Squamish, but many steps are still needed before it becomes a sure thing

By a 4-1 vote at the Feb 13 committee of the whole meeting, present council members approved moving a five-storey project at 38108 Cleveland Ave to be considered for three readings at a future regular business meeting Coun Lauren Greenlaw was opposed to the motion, while Mayor Armand Hurford and Coun Jenna Stoner were absent from the meeting as they attended a provincial housing summit.

The applicant, Lexi Development Group, is proposing the building at the northeast corner of the Cleveland Avenue and Winnipeg Street intersection, which used to be a gas station until the 1990s, said Bryan Daly, a planner with the District of Squamish. Notably, a proposal at this same location by the same proponent was defeated by a previous council in 2021, according to Daly

“I support this iteration of the building massing and the setbacks I feel that it’s time to let this patient developer get moving on this project,” said Coun John French “The amount of commercial space has increased [and] the

The applicant, Lexi Development Group, is proposing the building at the northeast corner of the Cleveland Avenue and Winnipeg Street intersection, which used to be a gas station until the 1990s, said Bryan Daly, a planner with the District of Squamish Notably, a proposal at this same location by the same proponent was defeated by a previous council in 2021

residential units are going to be rentals, which are needed So, I’m ready to see some action at this long-suffering empty lot in this key downtown intersection ”

The first storey of the building is proposed as commercial space, the second as parking, and the remaining storeys will house 23 residential units All of the units will be either market or

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affordable rentals, with 20 two- or three-bedroom units to be market rentals and three one-bedroom units to be affordable rentals Coun Eric Andersen said he was “pleased” with the current presentation and reflected on the defeated 2021 application

“Collectively, we sent this development applicant on a two-and-a-half year journey, an

onerous one, perhaps stressful with unclear expectations,” he said “We need to all learn some lessons from this ”

“It’s important for us in our relations with people who want to invest in our downtown and invest in housing supply for Squamish, that this process be one that’s clear to all of us and working well for all of us ”

The application wasn’t without some concerns from council members, including a desire to see a no-gas covenant in the commercial space alongside the residential units and the building’s aesthetic fronting Loggers Lane

In her feedback about the massing the form or shape of the structure and setbacks, Greenlaw said they seemed “reasonable” for the lot and even thought it was about the best it could be. But, overall, her comments grappled with Squamish’s bigger picture.

“I’m having a hard time supporting all of these developments that are coming through because I feel as though we’re reaching a point where we’re struggling as a community to keep up with this level of population growth,” she said “And I find that that aspect does not often make its way into these conversations, and I really struggle with that ”

If interested in learning more about the applicant, view the District’s report from the Feb 13 council agenda

Squamish Community Forest First Timber Harvest to Begin

The inaugural timber harvest for Squamish Community Forest will begin in the Cheekye basin the week of February 26, 2024 Roadbuilding for in-block roads will commence around February 21

SQCF is a partnership between Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and the District of Squamish

Community Forests prioritize local level decision-making and community values, with economic benefits returned to the community.

Notice of logging truck traffic

As the Mamquam Ring Road is still closed, logging trucks will need to haul logs through Garibaldi Highlands Hauling from the Cheekye basin will follow existing logging roads (Ring Creek North FSR) - Garibaldi Park Road - University BoulevardThe Boulevard - Highlands Way South and Mamquam road to Hwy 99 Hauling is anticipated to begin in early March, with about 10-12 loaded trucks/day, Monday to Friday for about 8-9 weeks Log hauling through the Highlands during school drop off and pick up times will be minimized

More info and updates at squamishcommunityforest org squamishcommunityforest@gmail.com

RENDER NG VIA D STR CT OF SQUAM SH

CYBERTIP WARNS OF SEXTORTION RISKS WITH APP WIZZ

Canada’s tip line for reporting online sexual exploitation of children says they’ve received over 180 reports concerning Wizz since 2021

ANDREW HUGHES

ahughes@squamishchief com

Do your kids use the Wizz app to chat?

Cybertip ca is warning parents and caregivers about the app posing sextortion risks In a news release, Cybertip ca, a tipline for reporting the online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, operated by the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P), recommends parents and caregivers remove the app called Wizz from their children’s phones.

“Wizz is a chat app owned by a Parisbased company that combines features similar to those seen on Tinder (swiping through profiles) and Omegle, an online service designed to pair strangers in video chats which was recently shutdown following a lawsuit over child sexual abuse and exploitation,” reads the release from Cybertip

Cybertip says they have received over 180 reports concerning Wizz since 2021 Of

those reports, over 90% concerned sextortion with males overwhelmingly being victimized in cases where gender was known Cybertip says the majority of the victims reported were between 15 and 17 years old

According to the release, Wizz allows users to share info on profiles which sextorters can leverage by matching the users Wizz also allows users to feature other social media profiles, making it easy to find users on other platforms

While Cybertip notes Wizz has an age verification process, they said that female Cybertip analysts between 23 and 25 were able to create accounts posing as 16-year-old males.

“Cybertip.ca recommends all parents and caregivers consider removing this app from their youth’s phone, and talk about the risks the use of Wizz may present to their teens,” noted the release.

Cybertip ca has more information about sextortion and ways to support a child if they have been victimized

You can also report instances of online sexploitation on the site Youth can also access resources if they have been sexually victimized at needhelpnow ca

PHOTO BY MARSBARS/ STOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

Cybertip says they have received over 180 reports concerning Wizz since 2021 Of those reports, over 90% concerned sextortion with males overwhelmingly being victimized in cases where gender was known

DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH

DEVELOPMENT REVIEW

• 2027 Finch Drive - Temporary Use Permit squamish.ca/review

BUSINESSOPPORTUNITIES

• Annual Watermain Upgrades: Request for Quotations

• Towing & Storage Services - Request for Proposals

• Model Review & Bylaw Development: Amenity & Development Cost Charges - Request for Proposals

• Canoe Procurement Group Purchasing - Notice of Intent

squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

Each

execute their plan.

This class begins on February

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Purpose: To acquire Crown Land in order to expand the Squamish Landfill or establish a Waste Transfer Station.

Take notice that the District of Squamish, at 37955 2nd Avenue, Squamish BC, V8B 0A3, has applied to the Ministry of Forests, Surrey, for a sponsored crown grant for a waste disposal site, situated on Provincial Crown land legally described as That Parcel or Tract of Unsurveyed Crown Land in the Vicinity of Alice Lake Provincial Park, Group 1, New Westminster District, containing 13.06 hectares, more or less

The Lands File Number for this application is 2412646. Comments on this application may be submitted in two ways:

1. Online via the Applications and Reasons for Decision Database website at: comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/applications

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 until March 16, 2024. Comments received after this date may not be considered

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. For information, contact Information Access Operations at the Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’Services in Victoria at: gov.bc.ca/citz/iao/

Sign up for the District’s weekly e-News to get important updates in your inbox every Friday

COUNCIL CLEANS UP WASTE BYLAW BY ADDING CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

Construction and demolition activities need three-stream waste separation

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief com

Squamish council clarified language in the solid waste bylaw to clear up requirements for the construction and demolition sector

At the regular business meeting on Feb 6, council unanimously approved updating language in the solid waste bylaw to clearly state that construction, deconstruction, demolition or similar activities need a three-stream waste separation system

“We’re asking and have asked active construction sites for some time to also separate their waste in recyclables, organics and landfill waste,” said Laura Wittenzellner, an outreach sustainability co-ordinator with the District of Squamish.

“The intent of this clarification is to make it easier for the industry to understand that these regulations apply to them as well.” Wittenzellner said they are also currently reviewing the demolition waste diversion bylaw with the goal of proposing amendments to it within the year

“I look forward to hearing more about progress on our demolition waste bylaw coming this year I think that’s where we can make a more significant impact on wood waste and deconstruction waste coming from our construction sites,” said Coun Andrew Hamilton

In addition to this clarifying language, amendments were added so that requests for changes in the size of collection containers should happen before Oct 31 to ensure the

We’re asking and have asked active construction sites for some time to also separate their waste in recyclables, organics and landfill waste.

LAURA WITTENZELLNER

changes can be in place by Jan. 1. The bylaw was also revised so that penalty dates were in line with other penalty dates along with other general housekeeping amendments.

The most recent audit of Squamish’s waste found that about 50.3% of the waste could theoretically be diverted from the landfill in the construction and demolition sector.

But, Squamish’s theoretical diversion rates are high across all streams, according to the Tetra Tech audit

Comparatively, 76% of waste could theoretically be diverted from the multi-family sector, 66 3% in the residential (single-family homes) sector, and 44 3% in the industrial, commercial and institutional sectors

As previously said by District staff, the Squamish Landfill is on track to be full in 2030

Mayor Armand Hurford said there was still “lots more work to happen” on solid waste

NOTICE OF BYLAW READINGS FOR ZONING AMENDMENT

District of Squamish Zoning Bylaw 2200, 2011 Amendment Bylaw (38123 Cleveland Ave) No. 2757, 2023

AFFECTED LANDS: 38123 Cleveland Ave, Squamish B.C.

PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT: The purpose of the proposed Bylaw is to rezone the parcel FROM Downtown Commercial (C-4) TO Comprehensive Development Zone (CD-111) to develop a six-storey mixed use building which includes 44 residential units and approximately 1,700 square meters of commercial space, including dedicate multi-floor office space

BYLAW READINGS: Consideration of first, second and third readings of the proposed Bylaw will be at the Regular Meeting of Council on March 5, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at Municipal Hall, 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish BC No public hearing will be held for this application

LOCATION MAP:

38123 SECONDAVE WINNIPEGSTREET THIRDAVE CLEVELANDAVE

NO PUBLIC HEARING: In accordance with the new Provincial housing legislation, Section 464(3) of the Local Government Act, local governments are now prohibited from holding public hearings related to rezoning applications for developments that are primarily residential and are consistent with the local government’s Official Community Plan (OCP) This proposal meets those requirements.

HOW TO VIEW THE PROPOSED REZONING

A copy of the proposed bylaw and related information that has been or may be considered by Council may be inspected online or at Municipal Hall.

• Online at: squamish.ca/showcase

• 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, British Columbia, from February 22 to March 5, 2024 between 8:30 a.m and 4:30 p m , Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays.

Enquiries regarding the proposed amendment bylaw may be made to the Planning Department at 604.815.5002 or by email to planning@squamish.ca.

This is the first of two notices of bylaw readings.

Dated this 22nd day of February 2024 at Squamish, British Columbia

PHOTO BY PHOTOVS/ STOCK /GETTY IMAGES PLUS

The most recent audit of Squamish’s waste found that about 50 3% of the waste could theoretically be diverted from the landfill in the construction and demolition sectors

SQUAMISH LIBRARY ADDS PRIVACY PODS

The new pods can be booked online up to 24 hours ahead

SCOTT TIBBALLS stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

Need some privacy? The local library can help with that

Since the fall, the Squamish Public Library has installed three new privacy pods

Useful for studying, doing a work interview, having a private phone call and more, they offer privacy and quiet in a well-used and loved public space

Director of library services, Hilary Bloom, explained to The Squamish Chief that they were installed to maximize the use of quiet space and meet a need in the community

“We got the first two because we have such a large open space concept it’s really difficult for us to achieve quiet spaces, so it had been something that had been on our radar for quite a while,” she said.

“They proved to be so popular that we got the opportunity to purchase a third one, which was second hand from a business in town that was moving and offered to sell it to us.”

The booths were purchased thanks to funds from the now-folded Friends of the Library, which made a considerable donation to the library as their last contribution, and grant funding from the province

“[We’ve had] really positive reviews because of

the nature of Squamish being there are a lot of people who work remotely and are studying and need meeting spaces,” said Bloom.

The pods can be booked through the library website up to 24 hours ahead of time, and users can use them for up to two hours in a day free of charge

February 19th

MORE THAN JUST BOOKS, BUT STILL DEVOTED TO BOOKS

The installation of the pods goes well with a number of other initiatives that have clicked into place at the Library recently, including a ‘technology co-ordinator’ who helps ensure the

library’s tech infrastructure is up to snuff and serving the public’s needs, and also holds one-on-one tech help sessions

The library also recently introduced a suite of tablets for in-library use as an expansion of public internet computer access, and in 2023 the library launched their ‘Library of Things’ services, lending out non-traditional library items like a sewing machine, podcast set, robotics kits, binoculars and more

Bloom said that service was a hit thanks to public input, and those who used the library had another chance to make suggestions

“We’re launching another survey now asking people to give us more feedback on what else they would like to see ”

Bloom said it was important that the library keep up with public demand and ensure its array of programming hit the spot while keeping true to its mandate.

“Among all these wild and wonderful things we’ve added on, we’re still very good at, and dedicated to delivering our core services that people expect,” she said.

“We are very responsive to patron suggestions and suggestions for purchase. We’re a library, so we want to have a collection that reflects the interests of the community.”

Learn more about what’s new at the library, and what public programming is on offer by checking out its bi-weekly newsletter through its website

INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

• University Reservoirs 2 & 3 - Construction is ongoing, with the two glassfused steel reservoir tanks now beginning to rise on-site. These tanks have diameters of approximately 17 metres and a height of 10 metres each

• Wastewater Treatment Plan Expansion and Improvements – Concrete base slabs for the new circular treatment tank and new septage receiving station are now complete. Construction of the walls will continue through June. Learn more: squamish.ca/wwtp-expansion

• Queens Way Lift Station – Internal repairs are mostly complete and the lift station is scheduled to be operational in March Site restoration activities including asphalt paving and curb and gutter work will be completed once weather permits.

• Water Meter Installations – Water meters are being installed at Industrial, Commercial, Institutional and multi-family residential properties in Squamish This work will take place through February at approximately 50 properties. Affected properties will be notified directly and installation times can be booked at the property owner’s convenience. Learn more: squamish.ca/water-metering-FAQ

PHOTO BY SCOTT TIBBALLS/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Director of library services, Hilary Bloom (centre), Erika Jaeger beside Bloom and Moriah MacMillan across from her in a pod Bloom said that the pods were installed to maximize the use of quiet space and meet a need in the community

HSPAA TO HOST LOVED AND LOST 2 CONCERT

On March 2, Howe Sound Performing Arts Association will host local musicians covering recently deceased artists

ANDREW HUGHES

ahughes@squamishchief com

Local musicians will soon put on a performance featuring covers from musicians who have recently passed away In a news release, the Howe Sound Performing Arts Association said it will be presenting Loved and Lost 2 on Saturday, March 2 at St. John the Divine Anglican Church in Squamish, with locals performing covers from recently deceased artists.

Among the artists to be covered include Gordon Lightfoot, Sinéad O’Connor, Robbie Robertson, Tina Turner and others.

The association said they did a similar tribute in 2017 for musicians who passed away in 2016

“The evening will feature local favourites Jess Perkins, Liesl Petersen [and] Samantha Sinanan, The Delibles, youth duo Zeya and

The local musicians will be backed by bandmates including Antti Makitalo on guitar, Elliott Nicholson on bass, Amir Fishman on drums, and Erik Musseau on keyboards

Eden, and the Step Out! Improv Troupe,” reads the release

The local musicians will be backed by

DARTS & DAFFODILS

MANY FEBRUARY DAFFODILS to Golden Crust Bakery for your continuing support of Hilltop House Your donations of treats bring so much pleasure to the residents The staff, volunteers and, especially the residents, thank you Hilltop House Support Society

A GIANT PIROUETTE FULL OF DAFFODILS to the incredible team at SDC You’ve created a beautifully inclusive space for all levels of dance and all ages, bodies, and personalities My daughters have grown so much in your studio, they have amazing role models, and learn daily from your teachers about being good humans. This past weekend I watched your whole team support competitive students with such love, care, and passion. Your investment in the dancers will change the world one person at a time.

bandmates including Antti Makitalo on guitar, Elliott Nicholson on bass, Amir Fishman on drums, and Erik Musseau on keyboards

KELLY, YOU RESTORED MY FAITH IN THE KINDNESS of long-time residents of Squamish when the changing times seem “ME” centered! Thank you so much for helping me on Saturday of the long weekend with repairing my front tire that picked up a screw in it and was leaking badly It was difficult to find anyone open when I happened to find you! Not even a tire shop, you helped a lady in distress!

God Bless You!

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

Tickets are available for $25 and can be purchased at howesoundarts tickit ca The doors open at 7 p m and the show will start at 7:30 p m

PHOTO BY TERRY V NE/THE MAGE BANK/GETTY IMAGES

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EDITORIAL

DEMENTIA & US

Chances are, some reading this are plagued by a nagging fear they may be losing their memory. Others are worried their loved one is showing signs of cognitive impairment.

While Squamish’s demographic trends young with a median age of 37.6 if they haven’t already, many will soon have someone in their family who has been diagnosed with dementia.

About 8.4% of Canadians over 65 had some form of dementia in 2020, according to the Alzheimer Society of Canada With 2,615 people in Squamish over 65 in the 2021 Stats Can census, that means at least 220 locals are living with it

Over the next 30 years, the number of people living with dementia in Canada will grow by 187%

What folks unfamiliar might not know is that dementia isn’t a disease, per se It is symptoms of a loss of mental function that interferes with daily life Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia.

Dementia can include memory loss, language difficulties, impaired judgment, changes in mood or behaviour, decreased ability to perform daily activities, disorientation, and problems with abstract thinking.

Dementia can’t be reversed.

Whatever else we can’t control in life, most of us feel we can at least control our reasoning or thinking thus, it can be a terrifying diagnosis for the person hearing it and for their loved ones.

The unknown and scariness of it can lead people to delay diagnosis, but, like with most conditions, early diagnosis by a medical professional is best.

Some treatments can make life easier for the person living with dementia, and agency matters.

Given enough time, a person diagnosed can decide about their future and care, which is better for all involved.

And, luckily, there’s plenty of compassionate help available.

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is the first place to turn, with lots of resources and humans to connect with who know what you are going through and can help.

As community members, we should also be aware of the possibility someone we are interacting with is living with dementia, because, as noted, soon more will be

As with all interactions, being respectful is key Use person-first language, the society recommends So, “person living with dementia,” not “dementia sufferer,” for example.

When communicating with a person with dementia, UsAgainstAlzheimer’s offers five don’ts:

1) Don’t tell them they are wrong about something, 2) Don’t argue with them, 3) Don’t ask if they remember something, 4) Don’t remind them that their spouse, parent, or other loved one is dead, and 5) Don’t bring up topics that may upset them.

If you have been diagnosed with dementia, or know someone who has, you aren’t alone.

Reach out to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.

BC UNITED, NDP PRESENT CLASHING VISIONS FOR SOLVING HOUSING CRISIS

for them, which is that down payment,” said Falcon.

Is the solution to the middle-class housing squeeze new government-built rental apartments, or a rent-to-own program that partners with the private sector? Those two different approaches by the governing NDP and Opposition BC United last week begin to paint a clearer picture of the contrast in housing policy facing voters in this fall’s provincial election

BC United Leader Kevin Falcon unveiled the first plank in his housing platform Thursday, which would require private developers to set aside up to 15% of future housing projects for a new rent-to-own program, backstopped by the provincial government British Columbians would enter into a purchase contract for a condo or home, pay rent at the market rate for three years, and then have that rent converted into a down payment to take ownership of their unit. On a $600,000 condo, at $2,000 monthly rent, it would allow a person to save a $72,000 down payment in three years.

Falcon said it would help address the difficulty British Columbians have in saving for a down payment while also paying some of the most expensive rental rates in Canada.

a“The beauty of it is it provides ease of access for those first-time buyers to get what is most challenging

“Rather than us trying to come up with some big multibillion-dollar program, like the NDP are trying to do where they’re going to become developers and try and build things and make them affordable, which they will never do, what I’m saying is let’s do it immediately by working with homes already being built

“Provide that financing backstop for these units that are participating, and that will make developers whole, and then they will eagerly participate ”

That’s the opposite of the approach unveiled by Premier David Eby on Monday, when he unveiled a $2-billion government development program, and launched a broadside attack on the private development sector for failing to build enough affordable housing

“We know that the private sector alone has not been able to deliver the middle-income housing that we need,” said Eby, blaming it for wild speculation and price increases

That core debate the extent to which government itself should be a development agency, builder and housing policy lawmaker all in one would appear to be the dividing line between the two parties.

Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon called Falcon’s plan “underwhelming.”

“I was hoping for something substantial that we could have a debate on, but there’s nothing here,” he said Feb. 15.

Ha7lh skwálwen cht kwis emút cht iy sts’its’áp’ cht iy kw’shétsut cht na7tkwa temíxw tl’a Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw

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

PROVINCE: Continued from 12

Kahlon said the rent-to-own plan is already part of BC Builds That’s not true, and the New Democrats know it There was no mention of rent-to-own in the program’s lengthy technical briefing or press conference last week Either United beat the NDP to the punch on the idea, or the NDP intends to steal it in the future Falcon’s housing plan also included a pledge to eliminate the property transfer tax on homes under $1 million, saving around $18,000 on fees to the government, as well as new provincial sales tax rebates for homebuilders

The two parties overlap on the issue of public land, with United proposing 99-year leases for developers to build affordable rental housing on government land, while

the idea is already the cornerstone feature of the NDP’s BC Builds program.

Neither party, so far, has offered a lot of details on how their plans will actually work in the real world The onus is on the NDP to do more in this area, because it has highly paid staff (like former Victoria mayor Lisa Helps) working full-time on developing BC Builds, backstopped by the gigantic BC Housing Crown corporation, the housing ministry and the premier’s office

The Opposition tends to be held to lower standards, because it doesn’t have access to ministry data, government staff or resources But Falcon will nonetheless have to put some more meat on the bones of his rent-to-own policy if he expects voters to take it seriously this fall He couldn’t even ballpark the cost to taxpayers

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

VOTE NO TO FORTISBC TUP

The Woodfibre LNG project and the associated proposal for a workcamp is one of the most critical issues the District of Squamish council will face because of the potential impacts on housing, healthcare access and on human rights. I urge them to prioritize the needs of this community and the planet and vote “no” to providing a Temporary Use Permit for FortisBC’s workcamp

Squamish already faces a severe housing shortage and has a limited amount of developable land As of 2022, the vacancy rate for purpose-built rental housing remained below 1%, and nearly 7,000 new homes will be needed in the next seven years to support this growing community Building a temporary camp for visiting workers is not a productive use of developable land that could otherwise be used to address the housing shortage by building permanent homes for residents A workcamp would also add further strain to the already overwhelmed healthcare system Because of the high cost of housing coupled with limited availability, Vancouver Coastal Health is navigating a “staffing crisis” as they struggle to recruit and retain staff.

While FortisBC has stated they have plans to provide first aid to workers, as well as an on-site clinic area for health and medical services, no concrete information has been provided on what services the

LETTERS POLICY

The

clinic will provide. But, as a temporary clinic, it will likely not be equipped to provide emergency or trauma services, resulting in workers using the already strained resources at VCH in many cases.

Councillors must reject the FortisBC workcamp to stop further destabilization for housing, healthcare and human safety.

Kirsten Westeinde Squamish

GENTLE REMINDER—LEAVE JUDGMENT AT THE DOOR

The Merriam Webster dictionary states that stigma “is a set of negative and unfair beliefs that a society or group of people have about something ”

Unfortunately, what it doesn’t inform us of is the damage that gets done to one’s soul when on the receiving end of society’s stigmatization of what is acceptable

I have personally seen the fear of failure, the self-doubt rise within one’s chest, the “What ifs” and the “I should have done better(s)” written all over the face of someone who was without a doubt enough, but society’s expectations of what we should be have robbed us of our internal peace

Our community has taken a turn since the opioid crisis was declared in April 2016.

We have been dramatically affected by the drug crisis as well as the homelessness crisis falling close behind; in order to fight these battles head on we need to end the

at Thursday’s press conference.

United will also have to clarify which NDP housing policies it intends to keep, should it form government, after voting against bills to allow quad-plexes on single-family lots and override municipalities that fail to meet their housing targets

Still, there’s a compelling split occurring between the two parties on the housing file: Government knows best, versus get out of the way for the private sector

That gives voters a clearer picture of where each leader stands on one of the biggest challenges facing people today Ultimately, that’s good for British Columbians The more ideas in an election, the better

Rob Shaw reports for CHEK News & Glacier Media He’s the best selling co-author of A Matter of Confidence

stigma (especially around addiction) and do as my grandfather used to say, “Keep your judgment at the door.”

The truth is that everyone is entitled to their own opinion; that being said, some opinions should be kept to themselves.

Words, particularly negative ones, can cut like a knife, even more so when you’re already stigmatized based on your appearance or the environment surrounding you.

If society states that we cannot judge someone based on their ethnicity or sexual preference, what gives us the right to stigmatize an individual based on their undiagnosed mental health conditions or causes of addiction?

If we are fighting for an equal, livable community, why are we creating such an unsafe, malicious atmosphere when all of us are known to come together in times of distress?

Where is that force now? When is the force of this community going to come together to fight these battles like warriors? This crisis is ripping our soldiers from the arms of loved ones, and for what? How about we reveal to this war what it looks like when we stand tall and together as one?

We, as a community, do not need to lose any more people to this battle; we all deserve a little compassion and a lot of love. #endstigmagivesupport

Amanda Mead Squamish

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MOST READ STORY

Prince Harry wraps visit to B.C., promises ‘epic week’ for next year ’ s Invictus Games

TOP TIKTOK OF THE WEEK

This week, The Squamish Chief’s TikTok is about the sea lions spotted in the Mamquam Blind Channel Check it out @squamishchief

AHRF TAKES THE STAGE AT REFRESHED CULTURAL HUB

Returning Indie rock band looks to recreate last show’s energy at the BAG in March

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief com

They got to rock out the Brackendale Art Gallery (BAG) before it shut for renovations last spring, and now they are excited to be one of the bands opening the refreshed culture hub back up in March

AHRF will take the upgraded stage at the BAG on March 9 (7:30 p m ; tickets are $10 plus fees )

The indie rock band is made up of school friends James Feschuk on guitar, Liam St John on drums, vocalist Miles Lawlor, and Dan Turrene on bass from Ottawa, but who have all made their way to B.C.

“We were floored last time we played here,” said Feschuk, 24, who now splits his time between Squamish and Revelstoke.

He added that the spring show sold out quickly, and the audience was really into the set, crowd surfing and creating a mosh pit

“I think whenever we get together as a band and talk about our favourite shows ever, that’s definitely

number one,” Feschuk said. The band’s name stands for All Hail Rob Ford (AHRF), after the controversial and infamous Toronto mayor who was embroiled in a drug scandal when the band members were in high school back in 2014

“Surprisingly, a lot of people get it

So, it’s definitely a good joke,” said Feschuk. “Someone thought they were being really funny when all the news was coming out a little high school rebel ”

The band takes their inspiration from a variety of artists

“We do pride ourselves on taking

inspiration from other Canadian bands,” Feschuk said, noting the lyrics of Barenaked Ladies are ingrained in their heads from hearing them growing up

“Those simple, very easy to understand, straight to the point lyrics ”

Of course, they are inspired by The Tragically Hip, covering some of their songs in AHRF’s shows

“Joel Plaskett on the East Coast is another fantastic songwriter; we’ve covered one of his songs, and he’s definitely one of the band’s favourites ”

The band also writes its own songs

AHRF released their first studio LP, Extracurricular, in 2022. It was created during the pandemic, while the bandmates were all finishing up at university.

Thus, the lyrics deal with a lot of the angst and feelings of transition from that time.

“You know, I’m finishing up school, what am I going to do with my life?

School sucks a little bit, but also, it’s going to put me in this cool position in life,” Feschuk recalled The band is starting to ink more

songs for another album, but there isn’t a set date for its release

When it is ready, it will focus more on where the members are now in their life which is a little more grown up, though not all the way fully adult, joked Feschuk

“Since we’ve all moved out and started our lives on the West Coast, I think a lot of what we’re focusing our writing on is being away from home, being so far away, starting a new life, starting a job that kind of thing

The next chapter in life, which will automatically be quite different than what we were writing before ”

Currently, they are focused on a set list for a summer tour

But first, they are excited to return to the BAG.

“The BAG is such a special place, and such a great community hub … we definitely really appreciate this opportunity. It’s something that’s really cool for us.”

Find out more about AHRF on their social channels, go to the Brackendale Art Gallery website for tickets to this show and to keep up with the latest news on the Bag’s renovations

PHOTO

AHRF will take the upgraded stage at the BAG on March 9

LED ZEPPELIN TRIBUTE BAND TO ROCK TRICKSTER’S HIDEOUT

Headed by Sea to Sky musicians, A Whole Lotta Led will take the local stage on March 2

PHOTO BY KELLI EVANS

$23

ANDREW HUGHES

ahughes@squamishchief com

Alocal Led Zeppelin tribute band will soon shred some slick covers of the legendary rock band in Squamish.

On Saturday, March 2, A Whole Lotta Led will be playing at Trickster’s Hideout in downtown Squamish, with doors opening at 9 p.m. Tickets are on sale now on Eventbrite, costing between $18 to $23.

Four bandmates make up the tribute band: Phil Richard on guitar and vocals, Greg Reamsbottom on lead vocals, harmonica and tambourine, Wes Lawrie on drums, and Kevin Torvick on bass and keyboards

Reamsbottom, who also plays in the Sea-to-Sky-Corridor-favourite The Hairfarmers, told The Squamish Chief that he and Richard first started playing in A Whole Lotta Led in 2002, but the current iteration with Lawrie and Torvick has been playing together since about 2019

“It’s been just super fun,” he said of the current foursome “This is definitely the most fun and musically, just kicking butt It’s really cool ”

Reamsbottom said he’s been a fan of Led Zeppelin since he was a kid, recalling hearing Dazed and Confused on the radio when he was only 10 years old.

“And it just pinned me to my seat,” he said. “Of course, you know, took my lawnmower money and ran out to the record store and bought Led Zeppelin’s first two records, I think, that week.”

Reamsbottom said A Whole Lotta Led tries to

This is definitely the most fun and musically, just kicking butt. It’s really cool.

GREG REAMSBOTTOM

keep the show “high energy,” and they play a lot of the hits a Zeppelin fan would expect, including Good Times Bad Times, Black Dog, Immigrant Song, Stairway to Heaven and the song the band’s name comes from Whole Lotta Love

He said he gets a kick out of watching hardcore Zeppelin fans see the band really pay a solid tribute to the iconic rock band

“You can see them over the first couple of songs, their mouths are open, and the band is kicking butt, and the vocals sound the way they expect them to And you can see just their faces light up,” he said

“It’s just such fun music to play,” he continued “I mean, if you can’t have fun doing this, you’re doing it wrong ”

Reamsbottom said they’ll likely play from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

“Our show will stretch out over three hours, two big sets with a big encore as well. So it’s a lot of music,” he said.

Check out more about A Whole Lotta Led and also get tickets to the show at their website awholelottaled.net.

The Arc'teryx Backcountry Academy is coming to Whistler for snow inspired educational clinics, film premiers, live music and much more. Scan the QR code to learn more and secure your clinic spot today

On Saturday, March 2, A Whole Lotta Led will be playing at Trickster’s Hideout in downtown Squamish with doors opening at 9 p m Tickets are on sale now on Eventbrite, costing between $18 to

REPORT SIGHTINGS OF BROWN MARMORATED STINK BUG

A B.C. entomologist says they continue to collect data on the invasive species in Squamish and surrounding regions

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief com

An entomologist with the province asks Sea to Sky Corridor residents to keep their eyes peeled for the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) and to report them if seeing them for the first time

Tracy Hueppelsheuser, an entomologist with the B C Ministry of Agriculture and Food, told The Squamish Chief in an interview that they are looking for residents to report sightings of the bug in an online form Specifically, they hope to get data from folks who have yet to spot the bug.

“We’re really more interested in hearing from regions that haven’t seen it before,” said Hueppelsheuser.

She noted there have been a few reports of the invasive species in Squamish, so they are interested in seeing if it has spread to further neighbouring regions.

“We’re just about 10 years since first detection, and it seems like populations have increased in the last two or three years,” said Hueppelsheuser of the detection of the BMSB in B C

Hueppelsheuser described the bug as having a brown topside with white speckles, a white-coloured belly, and banding on legs and antennas She said they are often found inside

homes, on patios and in patio umbrellas They are also attracted to lights and can sometimes be heard inside homes flying, which Hueppelsheuser described as sounding like “little helicopters ”

“If you see a stink bug in your house in the

winter, I’m 99 9% confident that it’s going to be a BMSB,” she said

Also, she said they collect data on egg clusters, which are white and globe-like in shape and will have about 28 eggs per mass

Although the bug isn’t harmful to humans,

pets or homes, it feeds on vegetable crops and fruit While some of the damage to these is aesthetic, Hueppelsheuser said they do have concerns for hazelnut orchards

“There is one crop that we are concerned about, and we are certainly seeing an increase in bugs, and that is the hazelnut orchards,” she said, which are often found in the Fraser Valley

Hueppelsheuser said both nymphs and adults can actually pierce the shell and feed directly on the developing kernel, leading to what they call “corking” which are “brittle and distorted spots on the nuts ”

Fortunately for those who spot the bug in their home, Hueppelsheuser said simply picking the bug, sticking it in a bag in the freezer to kill it then discarding it is all you need to do to get rid of it.

“We have never seen the numbers that they’ve seen in eastern North America,” she said. “So, there’s no need for any sprays or anything like that.”

For those who have potentially spotted the bug or eggs for the first time, the B C government has an online form to report sightings They also have images of the bugs and eggs online as well

Hueppelsheuser said stopbmsb org also has some great information

REDUCE, REUSE, RIDE: NEW BIKE TIRE RECYCLING DEPOT OPENS

Tantalus Bike Shop

hosts bike tire and tube depot, providing free recycling services and turning waste into valuable resources

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief com

Being the mountain biking mecca Squamish is, riders on local trails race through many tires and tubes

But where to take the discarded ones?

Previously, they could be taken to the Squamish Landfill, but now another option exists

A new Bike Tire and Tube Recycling Depot opened in Squamish on Monday (Feb. 12), according to a news release from the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA).

“The landfill provides a recycling option for bike tires and tubes. Yet, we recognize that the inconvenience and cost are deterrents to the vast number of worn tires and tubes that our bike-crazy community and cycling visitors go through every year,” the release states.

It is estimated that upwards of 4,000 tires and tubes end up in our landfill annually, according to the release

The service is free at the new facility, which is located immediately behind Tantalus Bike Shop at 40194 Glenalder Pl

“Ensuring your old tires will be diverted from landfills and repurposed into landscaping mulch, athletic tracks, turf fields or playground surfaces around B C , ” the release states

SORCA thanked the folks at Tantalus for the investment in the new bike tire and tube facility and their commitment to support

making sure the used tires are bundled to the specifications of Tire Stewardship BC, a non-profit that runs tire recycling programs in the province

SORCA also gave a nod to Jeremy Valeriote, the BC Greens MLA Candidate for West Vancouver - Sea to Sky, for “the time and energy he has invested in this project ”

PHOTO BY ASCENT XMEDIA/ISTOCK / GETTY MAGES PLUS

Riders in Squamish put their tires to the test on local

FAMILY FUN ON TRACK AT THE SEA TO SKY MODEL TRAIN AND HOBBY SHOW

Get on board: Railway Museum hosts annual model train extravaganza March 23 and 24

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief com

Do you or your littles like big trains, little trains, RC cars, Harry Potter, Thomas the Tank and everything in between? If so, you will want to enter this two-day event into your spring calendar.

The third annual Sea to Sky Model Train and Hobby Show is back at Squamish’s Railway Museum of British Columbia on March 23 and 24 Tickets are on sale now

This year’s event will have even more for families to see and do spread out over the CN Roundhouse and Car Shop exhibit spaces and beyond

When The Squamish Chief visited the museum on Feb 13, Gordon Hall, one of the

organizers and registrar of the show, was excited to have just received confirmation that Little Obie, a scale model ride-on CN locomotive, will also be at the event

It will run through the parking lot

For the die-hard hobbyist, there will be new and used model trains, model railway equipment, hobby tools and supplies.

And if you come to shop, there will be toys, diecast models, plastic model kits, RC cars, and trucks for sale.

MUCH TO SEE AND DO

Dozens of vendors and exhibitors are coming from nearby, including Squamish’s own Men’s Shed, and farther afield, including the Victoria Model Railway Club and the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway Society

Hall said the goal has been to open the event

up to more and more types of hobbies.

For example, the Automotive Model Builders – Collectors of Greater Vancouver club is coming this year

Most of all, there will be many hands-on activities for children of all ages

There’s the Harry Potter village and trains, as well as wooden and battery Thomas the Tank Engine train tables

“We’ve got the hands-on Thomas things where the kids can run the controls,” Hall noted

If radio-controlled (RC) vehicles are your kids’ thing, the West Coast Scale Trail RC group will have a large display of a crawler hill climb track.

And Langley hobby shop, RC Pitstop, will have an RC Racetrack.

“So the kids can try out remote control race cars in the car shop,” Hall said.

On Sunday, he added, the plan is to have time trials for RC vehicles

“How fast can you go around the RC course,” said Hall, adding this is meant to be a fun, light-hearted activity for families

OTHER ACTIVITIES

All weekend long, attendees can climb aboard the Mini Rail Ride (for an extra $3)

On Saturday only, there is the opportunity to ride aboard the Woss Speeder (tickets $5).

“It was built in the 1940s ... it’s an old, basically, rail bus that took crews to work along the rail lines; it came from the logging camp that was on Vancouver Island,” Hall said.

On Sunday only, families can get on board the BC-21 Budd Car for a ride (tickets are $10.)

“The unique thing about that is it’ll be running north a little ways on the BC Rail

It was built in the 1940s ... it’s an old, basically, rail bus that took crews to work along the rail lines; it came from the logging camp that was on Vancouver Island.

GORDON HALL

mainline across the bridge so you can have a good view and then it will run it into our car shops across the road the repair shops so people can get a view of the work in there,” Hall said

Also, on Sunday only, there are free site tours Snacks are available and a food truck will be on-site for hot meals, or bring your own grub if you like

Parking is free

Tickets are available for one day or for the whole weekend

“The fantastic thing about this show is that … there are so many people that are coming up from the different groups, [exhibitors and vendors] to do this show because they want to enter it. They want kids and families to enjoy it,” said Hall.

Find out more or get tickets by going to the Railway Museum of B C website

PHOTO BY JENN FER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Tickets are available for one day or for the whole weekend There will be plenty of model train sets like this one to see

MILD WINTER, POOR SNOW AND GOOD DIRT: SORCA TRAIL CREWS GET WORKING

Local mountain biking trails are good riding this time of year

too wet for it to be soggy”

SCOTT TIBBALLS

stibballs@piquenewsmagazine com

And the workers are off: Squamish trail crews have hit the biking network from the end of January to begin improvements and get the network up to scratch for a busy season

A mild winter has allowed riders to enjoy almost the entire network in the area.

“It’s a really nice time of year to be riding where we lose a lot of moisture in summertime, the trails are running great even if they’re a bit wet,” said AJ Strawson, who is the lead builder and trail crew manager with the Squamish Off Road Cycling Association (SORCA).

Strawson said it wasn’t unusual to be riding through the year in Squamish, but winter 23-24 was turning out to be a good year for ‘hero dirt ’

“Hero dirt is just the right amount of moisture in the soil to give you a good sense of grip, to be predictable, to ride quickly It’s not too dry where you have marbles; it’s not

Conditions are not quite perfect because of that same moisture, though

“You have to keep your wits about you because we do see a lot of changes in terms of trees coming down on trails because of the extra moisture and the wind we have ”

Trail crews with SORCA spool up to a busy spring and fall, with a break over the new year A smaller trail crew has been working since the end of January

“We choose projects that are easy for a smaller crew to tackle; we also want to choose things that if we leave them, there’s not going to be a consequence to the trail itself you’ll still be able to ride through. In the six days we’ve had, we’ve done a bit of drainage work on Jacks, [and] we’ve started repairing the Legacy Climb up towards the Griz [Meadow of the Grizzly trail].”

PRIORITIES FOR THE SORCA TRAIL CREWS

The work is never done for SORCA trail crews

“We’ll be looking at continued upgrades and enhancements to the network to facilitate access by adaptive bikes,” Strawson said

terms of getting around We’ll be doing a fair bit on both of those,” he said, explaining that they wanted to build a better-connected network

“We want to make it so there’s more mountain biking in a user’s mountain biking ride ”

Also of note, work on the Cheekye Fan debris barrier will be happening in 2024

“We’ll see some more traffic than usual on the Northside Connector, which intersects a number of trails, so that will be something worth keeping in mind.”

Asked the toughest question of all, Strawson said if he had to pick a favourite trail section this time of year, it was the trails that benefited from the best grip.

“It’s probably the aggressive single black trails in the Diamond Head zone that would be my go-to at the moment.”

Want to get involved in SORCA? Strawson has an idea

“We tend to look to the trails that see a lot of usage and function as a core component, either as a mountain bike specific trail or it’s a critical component of the network in

“I’m a big believer in volunteer dig days, and so if you’re a member of SORCA, you can come and attend one of our dig days, and they start in March If the snow is terrible come March, feel free to sign up for your membership and come down and do some shovelling ”

PHOTO BY SCOTT T BBALLS/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF AJ Strawson, who is the lead builder and trail crew manager with the Squamish Off Road Cycling Association (SORCA)

Happy Birthday 14th Nash!

Love, grandpa and grandma

Gordon Fredrick St James

September 4, 1951 - December 2, 2023

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Gordon "Gord" St James at the age of 72 after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 49 years, Karen (nee Acorn); sons, Ryan (Shauna) and Trev (Jill); and his three grandchildren, Shayla, Bowen, and Lucas. Gord is survived by his big brother, Bernie (Hilda), and his nephews, Tyson (Lisa), Elliot (Jen), and Aaron (Marlo). He was predeceased by his niece, Jill, in 2019.

Gord was born in Port Alberni to Melbourne and Murial St James and spent most his childhood living in various coastal towns across BC. Gord and Karen raised their boys in Squamish, where he spent 40 years driving logging trucks for Valleau Logging. Gord returned to Powell River to retire, and was the unofficial spokesman for the small town he was so proud to call home.

Gord loved a good meal and an even better bullshit. He was a captivating storyteller, a dedicated husband and father, a passionate outdoorsman and talented craftsman, leaving behind many beautiful projects.

Throughout his battle with cancer, Gord often said, "I can’t complain, I’ve had a good run," but he never gave up and passed away peacefully at VGH with his wife and boys at his side.

The next time you see the sun rise, take a moment to enjoy it for Gord - that was his favorite time of day.

We love and miss you, Dad. See ya at the beach.

Details for a celebration of life for a later date will be shared with family and close friends.

Evans Lake Camp in Squamish Hiring Cooks & Kitchen Assistants Our food services team provides delicious meals for 40-120 people. Housing available. Seasonal until the end of October Full posting at evanslake.com. foodservices@evanslake.com h t t p s : / / e v a n s l a k e c o m / g e tinvolved/job-openings/

RF

Associates Ltd Inspector Binnie is looking for an Inspector to expand their Development & Infrastructure team in Squamish! To apply, visit https://binnie.bamboohr.com/care ers/253 or contact LWu@binnie.com

WE ARE HIRING!

DHD CONSTRUCTION LTD., a Squamish-based, full-service construction and development company is

HIRING THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: 2 ASSISTANT SITE SUPERVISORS SITE FOREPERSON CARPENTER APPRENTICES

LABOURERS CONSTRUCTION SAFETY OFFICER PROJECT COORDINATOR PROJECT ADMINISTRATOR.

COMPETITIVE SALARIES EXTENDED HEALTH & DENTAL BENEFITS PERSONAL TOOL PROGRAM

Be a part of the DHD team and our exciting project – Finch Drive. A 20 acre, master-planned community using modern building technologies to achieve some of Squamish’s most energy efficient, multi-family homes.

For more information about DHD, full job descriptions and how to apply, visit www.dhdev.ca.

SEA TO SKY INVASIVE SPECIES COUNCIL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Executive Director

LOCATION: Sea To Sky Region, BC (Hybrid work available)

WORK HOURS: 38 hrs/week. Flexible schedule

COMPENSATION: Base salary $80,000 - $88,000, plus vacation and benefits

JOB PERKS: Extended Health Benefits, 3 weeks annual vacation (starting) allowance, Time in lieu bank, Reimbursement of professional association fees, Support for professional development.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The SSISC is looking to hire a highly skilled Executive Director who can build partnerships, secure funding agreements, manage a team of permanent and seasonal staff, develop and implement strategic objectives, manage the operational budget and programs, and lead the organization in working towards our mission of minimizing the impacts of invasive species. This is a complex and exciting role that requires a confident leader with a broad skillset to step in to take the reins of a well-functioning and stable organization.

See https://ssisc.ca/jobs/ for the full job description and how to apply ACT FAST! Applications will be accepted until the position is filled

Vacasa’s forward-thinking approach and industry-leading technology help set us apart as the largest full-service vacation rental company in North America.

We are seeking individuals with a passion for providing exceptional vacation experiences for our Owners and Guests.

We offer competitive wages and benefits: Travel allowance for Squamish/Pemberton-based employees OR Ski Pass/Activity allowance, Extended Medical, RRSP match, Fun & Safe Work Environment-Great Team, opportunities to grow and more.

Owner Relations Manager

$55,000 per year

Full Time all year round

Apply online today!

https://www.vacasa.com/careers/positions

or email: paul.globisch@vacasa.com

or call to find out more details at 604-698-0520

We thank all applicants for their interest but only those selected for an interview will be contacted

March 21-April 19

ARIES

You may spontaneously decide to take a training course to improve your job prospects A revelation will illuminate your path to satisfaction but will also require considerable effort Sept 23-Oct 22

TAURUS

April 20-May 20

You could obtain the necessary financing for a project close to your heart A consultation with your financial adviser should enable you to consolidate your debts and live your life as intended.

GEMINI

May 21-June 20

Tidying up at home could help you clear your head. Before talking about separation, take the time to discuss certain subjects Deciding on impulse could leave you with bitter regrets

CANCER

June 21-July 22

Before presenting any files and proposals at work, make sure you refine them to ensure they get accepted. You’ll inevitably want to renew your wardrobe to reward yourself for your success

LEO

July 23-Aug. 22

Oct 23-Nov 21

LIBRA

A dose of sensitivity and affection will be crucial in your relationship to avoid misunderstandings. Open communication will help improve things, but financial confusion could arise.

SCORPIO

An action-packed week is on the horizon! If you love to travel, now might be the perfect time to revive a plan that was previously postponed due to circumstances that no longer apply Even a short solo getaway could create some unforgettable memories

SAGITTARIUS

Nov 22-Dec 21

If you have an artistic soul, your overflowing imagination will enable you to create an exceptional piece of art Adopting a lifestyle that aligns with your aspirations will bring balance to your life When you go with the flow, everything will fall into place

CAPRICORN

Dec 22-Jan 19

You’ll suggest interesting projects to your friends Dedicate time to developing your creative skills in a field you’re passionate about Self-confidence is the key to achieving success and accomplishing great things in the near future Jan 20-Feb 18

VIRGO

Aug 23-Sept 22

You’ll meet inspiring people who will enrich your social circle and deepen your spirituality. A professional or personal opportunity could make you consider moving Feb 19-March 20

The Parish of St. John the Divine, Squamish

Holy Communion and Morning Worship

Sundays at 10:00 AM Rev

Cameron Gutjahr

1930 Diamond Road 604-898-5100

www.squamishanglicanchurch.ca

A moment of relaxation and rejuvenation would be welcome Explore your artistic or spiritual talents that seem to want to emerge Getting involved with those who are less fortunate could also be an inspiring option.

AQUARIUS

You’ll expand your circle of friends by having a more active social life, even if it’s just through social media Joining a gym with friends to try out a new sport could also be a great option.

PISCES

You’ll be full of joy and optimism this week. This contagious state of mind will spread to those around you. At work, you’ll complete your tasks more quickly and support those who need help. Your extra efforts will be rewarded.

Sundays 10am

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