March 21, 2024 - Squamish Chief

SQ

COUPLE TROUBLED BY RESPONSE AFTER CRASH

ICBC and contractor Surerus Murphy say they are following up to address concerns

ANDREW HUGHES

ahughes@squamishchief.com

In the early morning of Feb. 12, Squamish couple

Sarah Wheatley and Denis Courchesne were on their way to the airport for their first vacation together

Wheatley’s sister, Kieran, was travelling with them to take the car home once the couple was dropped off.

But the three of them barely made it out of Squamish before they were involved in a serious car accident

Near the viewpoint a few kilometres south of the Shannon Falls intersection on the Sea to Sky Highway, they collided with a driver for Surerus Murphy Joint Venture who attempted a U-turn but stopped in their lane before completing it The company, Surerus Murphy, is a contractor with the FortisBC Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre pipeline project.

The three of them survived, as did the other driver

Yet, Wheatley said they were taken to Squamish

CRASH: Continued

DEAD ELK FOUND IN SQUAMISH VALLEY SPARKS CONSERVATION OFFICER SERVICE INVESTIGATION

Squamish Nation working with authorities on the case and considering possible future action

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) is investigating after four elk were found dead in the Squamish Valley.

The COS confirmed to The Squamish Chief that it received multiple calls to its Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline regarding the dead elk found in the Squamish Valley on Feb. 20.

Because conservation officers are investigating this matter, the COS said it could not provide additional details at this time.

“The COS will provide an update once we are in a position to do so,” a spokesperson said.

Poaching has been an ongoing concern in the Squamish Valley for residents, Squamish Nation, and the COS.

Last summer, a grizzly was found illegally killed.

“Squamish Nation is aware of this issue and actively working with the Conservation Officer Service on the investigation,” said Sxwixwtn, Wilson Williams, Nation spokesperson and council member in an email.

“Poaching, as well as other illegal activities on our lands, such as trespassing, garbage dumping, etc, are of great concern to the Nation. And it is extremely distressing to us to see that despite our best efforts, these types of destructive activities persist. We have always said our goal is to peacefully co-exist with outdoor recreationists, as long as they remain respectful of our lands, waters, and everything

that lives within them If that is impossible, then we will have no other choice but to assess all options and take further action.”

Locals can report any violation of fisheries,

laws to the RAPP

PHOTO BY DANIEL JARA/ ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) is

CRASH: Continued from 1

General Hospital and treated for major whiplash and multiple injuries and that her sister was transferred to Lions Gate Hospital, where it was revealed she fractured her back Wheatley called it a “miracle” they weren’t injured more, estimating it took first responders 20 minutes to remove her sister from the back of the car and onto a stretcher.

Since the incident, however, Wheatley and Courchesne say they have been dismayed by the difficulties they have gone through with ICBC and the physical, mental, and financial toll placed on them

Moreover, Wheatley worries about other incidents like this happening with the current and upcoming addition of workers on big projects in Squamish.

Both ICBC and Surerus Murphy told The Squamish Chief that they intend to address concerns with Wheatley and Courchesne, among other measures.

ICBC

Wheatley said they’ve spent at least $1,000 for a car rental, plus other expenses like counselling, all out of their own pocket.

“The out-of-pocket expenses are worrying I’ve learned a lot about the new no-fault system, which unfortunately does not take the bigger picture into account. Denis can’t work I’m going to have to cover us financially, but I’m not in a position to do,” Wheatley said through tears in an interview with The Squamish Chief.

Lauren Champagne, an ICBC spokesperson, wrote to The Squamish Chief on March 15 that anyone injured in a crash is pre-approved for numerous rehabilitation treatments for the 12 weeks following the crash, including acupuncture, chiropractic, kinesiology, massage therapy, physiotherapy, counselling, and psychology After 12 weeks, Champagne said ICBC works with a customer’s care team to access services that will help them recover “as much as possible to their condition before

We were involved in an incident that has caused harm to others and this goes against everything we stand for, as never harm is one of our core values.

MICHELLE HARRIES

the crash.”

However, Champagne noted that if direct billing is unavailable, then customers will need to pay for treatment upfront and then get reimbursed. Champagne said they aim to reimburse expenses within one week.

Wheatley said they recently had to stop going to counselling because they couldn’t afford the out-of-pocket expense anymore, as many counsellors don’t offer direct billing.

Only recently, about a month after the crash, has direct billing been set up for the car rental, said Wheatley in an email to The Squamish Chief.

Both Wheatley and Courchesne said they are still physically struggling, unable to complete typical housekeeping tasks. A carpenter by trade, Courchesne has remained unable to work because of injury Wheatley’s sister had to put starting a new job on pause.

Although ICBC offers income replacement up to 90% for those making under $109,000, Wheatley and Courchesne said they were told they needed to use employment insurance and sick days first. Champagne confirmed customers need to use sick days or disability coverage first.

“This has always been the case for income replacement benefits,” she wrote.

But Courchesne said it was unfair to have to use sick days first, as now he won’t have any to

use if he gets sick later.

“Who’s going to be there paying for my sick days?” he said “I wish ICBC could be more helpful that way.”

Champagne wrote ICBC will be following up with those involved in this crash to ensure their concerns are addressed.

Ultimately, Wheatley said they’re fortunate to be in a place, with help from family and friends, where they can advocate for themselves, but the process shouldn’t be so difficult

“There are people that end up much worse off for something that wasn’t their fault,” she said “And they can’t fight for themselves, and you have to.”

SURERUS MURPHY AND FORTISBC

Since the crash, Wheatley said she is concerned about the influx of workers and drivers who may not know the highway very well, as Surerus Murphy is an Alberta-based company.

According to FortisBC’s website, Surerus Murphy is responsible for the gas pipeline component of the Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project. Other contractors are responsible for the tunnelling below the Squamish Estuary. Construction for the project began in 2023

Wheatley said since the accident, they have had some communication with Surerus Murphy, who has provided “very basic assistance” but no significant actions. She said they have asked about financial assistance and await their response

However, Wheatley said communication with FortisBC has been very minimal.

Michelle Harries, a spokesperson for Surerus Murphy who responded to an inquiry from The Squamish Chief, said many workers are residents of Squamish and they strive to be a trusted neighbour.

“We were involved in an incident that has caused harm to others and this goes against everything we stand for, as never harm is one

GOT NEWS?

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

of our core values As we look forward, we are committed to responding to those involved in this incident with integrity, supporting them in ways that help them live their daily lives with ease during their recovery,” she wrote. Harries also wrote the incident has been a catalyst in providing local education and awareness to employees about safe driving and the importance of speaking up as a passenger if they feel something is unsafe Company-wide, they have reinforced expectations of safe driving and discussed the incident and driving expectations at a recent company town hall

Regarding FortisBC, spokesperson Jill Drews wrote to The Squamish Chief in an email that the company is planning a roundtable for contractors to discuss road safety and learnings from the incident. Additionally, they are committed to identifying steps to ensure such incidents can be avoided in the future.

Moreover, she outlined some steps Surerus Murphy has taken, adding to the ones listed above. These include the company being in touch with those involved in the crash, providing additional wayfinding resources to help employees reach sites more easily, and increasing buses and shuttles for employee transportation.

Recently at a District of Squamish council meeting, District staff reported that about 180 FortisBC workers live in Squamish, and another 100 are expected by June or July FortisBC proposed a worker accommodation on Mamquam Forest Service Road, which would be accessed via a Sea to Sky Highway intersection The accommodation needs a final permit from the District of Squamish to go forward FortisBC’s website states the accommodation would house, on average, 300 workers, peaking at 600 in 2025 summer

The Squamish Chief asked FortisBC about safety considerations at this particular intersection, but the response did not directly reference this intersection

WATERFRONT 37-ACRE KLAHANIE PROPERTY

UP FOR SALE

Klahanie Campground property hits the market in a court-ordered sale

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

The large property on which Klahanie Campground sits is for sale by court order.

The 15-hectare (37-acre) property includes almost 0.5 kilometres of waterfront and “extensive Highway frontage.”

It is being sold by Re/Max’s Claire Group and Colliers’ Unique Properties as part of a foreclosure court.

The listing reads, “The property provides one of the single best tourist development opportunities within the Sea to Sky Corridor and B.C. today.”

DIFFERENT KIND OF A SALE?

Manjit Claire, with Re/Max’s Claire Group, said he couldn’t say yet exactly what the property would be sold at but it would likely be “in the $20-million-plus range.”

“It’s a very rare property Obviously, it is not within the reach of the average buyer, but for somebody who has the pockets to make it, it would be like a trophy property,” he said “It would be the gateway going into Squamish and Whistler There’s an opportunity to create something really unique.”

The 2024 BC Assessment valued the property at about $11.7 million.

He said with a court-ordered sale like this “you’re always buying a property as is, where is.”

This means that the onus to do all the due diligence is on the buyer, he said

But much of the purchase process is the same for any real estate buy.

“The initial offer is the same back and forth, as you would negotiate any offer,” Claire said

“Once an offer is accepted, and if there are any subjects on the offer. It’s the same thing as a regular offer. Once subjects are removed, and that deposit has been put into place, only then does a court date get set.”

At that time, anybody else who wants to bid on

the property can present a competing bid, generally four days before the court date is set, Claire added.

The other bids would get forwarded to the lenders’ lawyer and then the lawyer would present all the offers to the court.

“The court decides which offer to accept, generally it does go on the highest price. The competing bid cannot have any subject conditions,” Claire said

He noted that while the property does have its challenges for the buyer, in that plans would have to work through the municipal process, it still has a lot of potential.

The listing says that the property “is prime for redevelopment to a variety of uses consistent with its tourist commercial zoning.”

CAMPGROUND

Currently home to the popular Khlahanie Campground, the listing says the RV and tenting campground has over 100 sites.

“The property will provide valuable holding income pending redevelopment,” reads the listing.

The campground’s Rick Poissant told The Squamish Chief via email that he was not too concerned about the latest development with the property.

“We have been here before, and this issue will also disappear soon,” he said, adding his understanding is there is some corporate restructuring underway

(The listing asks that people not visit the site directly but call the agent to arrange a visit.)

Over the years, this property has had a few different plans that didn’t pan out.

Most recently, plans for a $400 million Klahanie resort—including a five-star destination resort, hotel, restaurant, and spa—gained momentum in 2017 but have since stalled.

According to an Assessment Roll Report, Shannon Shores Landholdings NO 1 LTD/ Landholdings NO 1 LTD/Symphony Resorts LTD owns the property.

PHOTO VIA MANJIT CLAIRE RE/MAX’S CLAIRE GROUP According

COUNCIL MOVES SEAANDSKY APPLICATION TO FIRST,

SECOND READING

CONSIDERATION

The application proposes 544 more residential units

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Additional housing may be coming to one of Squamish’s biggest developments as a proposal moves ahead in the District of Squamish’s processes.

At the March 12 committee of the whole meeting, council members unanimously voted to send a rezoning application for the SEAandSKY development to be considered for first and second reading at a later regular business meeting.

The Bosa Properties and Kingswood Properties application will need three readings and an adoption for it to proceed. A spokesperson for the District confirmed in an email that there will be a future public hearing regarding the proposal, as it involves an Official Community Plan amendment.

The application seeks an additional 544 residential units compared with the 2017 approval Moreover, the total increase and type of units proposed have changed several times within the last year.

In 2017, when the project was given

third reading, the now-approved rezoning application allowed for the construction of between 900 to 1,100 residential units. That proposal also put forth 55 units of affordable rental housing and 50 units of market rental housing.

Currently, the additional 544 units are proposed as 128 condos, 391 market rentals, and 25 affordable rentals. With that 544, there would now be 1,541 homes in the area, which includes the units that are either

already complete or under construction.

Beyond the addition of homes, there would be over 2,300 square metres of commercial space, an additional 566 square metres of childcare space on top of the other childcare area, and $1 million for public art.

As with any committee of the whole meeting, council members provided extensive feedback on the application, which varied widely among them.

While several members

acknowledged that $1 million was quite generous for public art, some said the money could be better spent elsewhere.

“I agree it’s generous [but] I don’t think it’s necessarily the highest priority,” said Coun Jenna Stoner

ABOUT THE BRIDGE

There were also a lot of questions and comments about the proposed vehicle and pedestrian bridge between Laurelwood Road and Pemberton Avenue, which the mayor and council were told is conservatively estimated to be completed by 2030.

The director of major projects, Dave Marrow, said the bridge would be a good project to lobby the provincial government for funding, as its completion would take some traffic off of the highway.

Coun Andrew Hamilton said he was in favour of having the bridge tied to occupancy of some units in the development.

“The Laurelwood-Pemberton bridge, to me, that’s an important component of this extending density in this area,” he said.

Councillors Lauren Greenlaw and

Chris Pettingill sought clarity about the additional childcare space and if it would meet the District’s target for childcare availability given the ballooning population in the area with the increased housing.

Broader feedback included both Coun. John French and Stoner saying affordable units should be calculated by the total area instead of the number of units, as the affordable units currently proposed would all be under 90 square metres (about 960 square feet).

“Calculating unit numbers doesn’t work because developers seem to gravitate towards one-bedroom units for below-market use,” said French “And then that has council fighting to get greater affordability for three- and four-bedroom units that work better for low-income families.”

A couple of councillors noted that they wanted to see commercial space that is “invitingly public” coming off the pedestrian bridge and near the waterfront

View details of the proposed design on the District’s development showcase website.

~With a file from Steven Chua/The Squamish Chief

RENDERING VIA DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH Rendering of SEAandSKY at buildout

WHATISTHE “JUST RIGHT ZONE” BETWEEN SPEED AND SAFETY?

INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

TheDistrict is seeking feedbackfrom residents of all ages, neighbourhoods and transportation preferences to understand the areas of concern relatedtotraffic speeds.

ACCESSORYDWELLING UNIT DESIGNCOMPETITION

•University Reservoirs2 and 3Constructionoftwo glass-fused steel reservoir tanksis90% complete. Eachof these tanksmeasureapproximately 17 metres in diameter and 10 metres high, and will help to improve water storage capacityand delivery forSquamish.

Visit our online public engagement platform until April 5 toshare locations wherespeed is aconcern through an online mapping tool.

letstalksquamish.ca

Expression of Interest Deadline: April 11, 2024

•Wastewater TreatmentPlanExpansion and Improvements – Constructionis underwaythroughsummer2025 on a newsecondaryclarifier and concentric bioreactor. Learnmore: squamish.ca/wwtp-expansion

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN RECREATION AND CULTURE

squamish.ca/adu-design-competition Learnmore!

FamJam DanceParty: Taylor Swift

Shake it off with your family and community while youexperience the joyand excitementofthe Eras Tour.Jointhe fun, showoffyour best dancemoves,and create lasting memorieswith theones youlove!

March23, 10:30 -12p.m.

55yrs+ Bus Trip: UBC

Choose Your OwnAdventure

Howabout aFoodTruck Festival?

OratraditionalJapanesegarden? Maybeaself-guided outdoor walking art tour –it’suptoyou April 4, 10 a.m. -4p.m.

Co-edLearn to Play Hockey –Beginner

Have youeverwantedtogive hockey atry but have beentoo intimidated to laceupyourskates?

TheSquamish Women’s Hockey Academyisoffering ahockey skill development programfor beginner men and women.

Wednesdays,April 3-24 8-8:45p.m.

Youth Pool Takeover

Saturday, March30 6-8p.m.

SensorySwim

Sunday,March 31, 6-8p.m.

for details and registration visit: squamish.ca/rec

•Queens WayLiftStation Maintenance Hole –Constructioncontinues to replace the inlet maintenancehole and reline the wet-well.Please followtraffic control measures.

squamish.ca/building-our-future

DEVELOPMENT REVIEW

•1001 FinchDrive-DriveBuilding2 -Zoning Amendment

•2190SkylineDrive -DevelopmentVariancePermit squamish.ca/review

BUSINESSOPPORTUNITIES

•WWTPElectrical ServiceKiosk Supply and DeliverRequest forQuotations

•RecruitmentServices -Request forSupplier Qualifications

•2024Powerhouse Springs Well Rehabilitation Program -Request forQuotations

•Mamquam Bridge Deck Resurfacingand Active TransportationAnalysis -Request forProposals

•Canoe ProcurementGroup Purchasing- Noticeof Intent

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

SQUAMISH CHAMBEROFCOMMERCEWELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ANNE MACKENZIE

MacKenzietakes over fromChris Fehr officially on March25

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

The Squamish Chamberof Commerce hasanew executive director

Theboard of directorsannouncedon March 8thatAnneMacKenzie will take over theorganization’shelmasofMarch 25

ASquamish local, MacKenzie will replaceChris Fehr,who took on the position oneyearago.

Theannouncementstatesthat MacKenziehas 20 yearsofexperiencein eventmanagement, chamberoperations, and, most recently,asdirectorof developmentand operationsfor The Forum, aCanadian-basedcharity that aims to empowerand connectfemale entrepreneurs.

“I hadthe privilegeofworking forThe Forumfor womenentrepreneurs over thelastthree yearsand just watching people buildtheir businesses—I’ve absolutely lovedit. Butthere is just so much meaninginbeing able to do that

SUBMITTEDPHOTO AnneMacKenzie

kind of work in my owncommunity,” MacKenzietold TheSquamish Chiefon March11.

“I’velived in Squamish for16years, andI’veseensomanyincredible business businesses in town,” shesaid.

Sheadded that sheisexcited to “really startbuildingupthe chamber’spresence in Squamish.”

Amongother positions, MacKenzie waspreviouslybusinessdevelopment managerwiththe Whistler Chamberof Commerce andworkedasasales manageratthe SeatoSky Gondola, accordingtoher LinkedIn profile.

MacKenziesaidshe looksforward to connecting with localbusinessowners andfinding outmoreabout theirspecific challenges—and helpingfindsolutions—onceshe officially starts.

However, shesaidshe couldspeculate that childcare, housingand staffing are themainchallenges.

MacKenziesaidshe sees advocating beingthe voiceofbusinessin Squamish—asthe most importantpart of herjob.

“And themoremembers we have,the louder my voicecan be,” shesaid.

CatherineWebster,the chamber’s presidentwelcomedMacKenzie in the announcement andthanked Fehr “for all of hishardworkoverthe past year and forassisting in thetransitiontothe new executivedirector.”

NEWSBRIEF

SEARCH SUSPENDED

Amulti-agency24-hour search fora womanwho was takenawayinthe MamquamRiver wascalledoff Monday,March 18 duetothe river’scurrentsand steep terrain.

In anewsrelease,the Squamish RCMP saythe womaninher 30swas with friendswhenshe entered theMamquam River, just west of thePowerhouse Bridge

“Moments later, herfriends heardayellfor help andsaw thefemalegetting sweptdownthe river,”the releasestates.

Squamish RCMP,along with partneragencies, Squamish Search andRescue,North ShoreSearch andRescue,Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue,SquamishFire, andBCAmbulance Service were involved in search effortsoverthe past 24 hours.

“Extensive searches of theareas were conducted includingground, marine,kayaks, helicopters, and drones,” readsthe release.

“The area in whichthe female waslastseenis surrounded by deep ravineswithcanyons,and difficult terrain.”

RCMP andSAR areintouch with thewoman’s family andrequested privacyatthistime.

“Weask anyone whoisinthe area whosees anything in theriver or alongthe riverbanks,orhas anyadditionalinformation to contactthe RCMP immediately,”saidSgt.DallasLangley of the Squamish RCMP

QuoteSquamishfile: 2024-1529.

FIRE NEAR WILSON SLOUGH RENEWS ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS OF RESIDENT

District of Squamish reports fire rescue extinguished the fire under 10 minutes

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Afire near Wilson Slough has renewed a resident’s concern about the care of the salmon-bearing waterway

Squamish resident Marina Tourlakis wrote in an email to The Squamish Chief that a recent fire in a dumpster renewed her concern about the environmental impact on Wilson Slough, where she has seen the slough littered with trash throughout the years. The recent fire has added to her concern for the waterway.

“We saw how the waste management, or lack thereof, of the property led to a fire. … All this time, our concern has been the pollution of the salmon-bearing waterway. Now we have a new concern [of] fire,” she wrote.

A spokesperson for the District of Squamish wrote in an email to The Squamish Chief that Squamish Fire Rescue was dispatched early on March 4 to the 38000 block of Buckley Avenue and extinguished the fire in under 10 minutes

“The crew of two on-shift firefighters responded along with the Deputy Fire Chief. A second truck was staged at Firehall 1, but did not attend,” wrote Rachel Boguski. “The crew

arrived at 4:35 a.m., and the fire was extinguished at 4:44 a.m. The crew was able to extinguish the fire quickly, as it was contained within a rubbish dumpster, and the property was turned back over to the property representative.”

Boguski said the cause of the fire is currently undetermined.

Moreover, Boguski wrote fire rescue is

“working with the property representative to ensure that combustible items do not accumulate and are removed more frequently to prevent a similar occurrence.”

Regarding litter in the slough, Tourlakis wrote in her email that intentional dumping is hard to stop, but accidental dumping from overflow could be prevented by installing a fence.

The District told The Squamish Chief that it had not been informed of any recent dumping within Wilson Slough

Squamish Fire Rescue also did not note any impact on Wilson Slough because of the rubbish fire or fire suppression efforts while crews were on the scene.

The District said residents who may have concerns regarding this issue are encouraged to contact Bylaw, Public Works and/or our Environment Department to report illegal dumping.

A spokesperson for Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) wrote to The Squamish Chief on March 11 that it had no records of previous violations for Wilson Slough nor a complaint about the recent fire The department noted sloughs are a “critical” habitat for juvenile fish, where they may feed, acclimatize to saltwater and hide from predators

“As part of the ongoing educational work that fishery officers routinely do to promote stewardship and best practices around fish and fish habitat, Squamish fishery officers will reach out to the District of Squamish to explore ways to promote the importance of fish habitat in this and other local wetlands.”

The DFO asked that the public report suspected fisheries-related violations or any contravention of the Fisheries Act to call 1-800-465-4336 or email DFO.ORR-ONS.MPO@ dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

When it’s hard to talk about what’s on your mind.

PHOTOS BY DANIEL KRAHN (LEFT) AND JENNIFER THUNCHER

Flames can be seen during the fire (left) and the slough a few days after the fire.

PHOTO BY AAFREEN ARORA READY FOR SPRING: Bentley is enjoying the warmer weather these days

SLRD PONDERS FURRY CREEK, BRITANNIA BEACH INCORPORATION

Both communities will soon have larger populations

SCOTT TIBBALLS

stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) has taken the first steps towards what could lead to changes in municipal boundaries.

At the Feb. 29 board meeting, directors agreed to support a motion by Area D director, Tony Rainbow, for the SLRD to make contact with the provincial government on what steps it needs to take in considering the incorporation of Britannia Beach, Furry Creek, and Porteau Road—all of which are unincorporated areas within Area D set for large population increases in the coming years.

In speaking to his motion, Rainbow said he has fielded many questions from residents of those communities about incorporation in light of changes to come

“We have the new development in Britannia, a new commercial centre which will be open soon, we’ve zoned Britannia South and Furry Creek for an incredible number of new homes … we’re basically dumping a new town in that area, which is at least the size of Pemberton, maybe a little larger,” he said

The communities of Britannia Beach and Furry Creek recorded a population of 654 people between them as of the 2021 census, and recent development permits are slated to add thousands of units to the area in coming years.

Rainbow said enquiries from the public led him to believe those communities and the SLRD need help in feeling out how to proceed towards incorporation—and whether it is necessary at all.

He pointed to provincial resources for unincorporated areas considering options, saying the scope of considerations is vast

“The kinds of things they consider are population growth trends, proximity to neighbouring communities, road networks, diversity of property tax base, existing local services, community involvement, nature of the local economy and future prospects,” he said Rainbow stressed the preliminary nature of his ask of fellow directors, and that it is not an application to the provincial government for those communities to incorporate.

“I want to do this to try to keep things calm,” he said. “So, if there’s going to be any discussion about incorporation, it’s done in a reasonable and logical way with the right kind of information.”

All directors supported his motion Staff noted that, given the scope of incorporation, it would be a large project for the SLRD if the subject proceeded any further, so preliminary contact with the provincial government

We have to lead this, we don’t have to be sitting here waiting for something to catch us unawares in a couple of years’ time, we need to be ahead of the game.

TONY RAINBOW

to assess options is the best course of action as a first step

The possibility of provincial funding to pursue a feasibility study is on the table, should initial contact affirm incorporation is a viable option for the area.

Speaking to Pique, Rainbow said at this point, there is not a large enough population to support incorporation, but with changes coming, it is the sort of homework the SLRD needs to do to be ready.

“I would suggest there’s not enough at the moment to think about moving forward, but as the numbers increase, we need to have some kind of a plan in place, and that’s what I’m looking for,” he said.

As the elected representative for Area D, Rainbow represents a little over 1,000 people, according to the SLRD With more units built on Howe Sound, that number could increase to outstrip some of the constituent municipalities within the regional district—and residents would likely expect more representation than one director.

“When I look at what is happening here, when you’ve got those 2,000 homes completed, when people have moved in, they would be looking for more representation than they could get from one Area D representative, so at some point the numbers will dictate that a change has to be made,” he said

“We have to lead this, we don’t have to be sitting here waiting for something to catch us unawares in a couple of years’ time, we need to be ahead of the game.”

The last time a new community was incorporated within the SLRD would have been the creation of the Resort Municipality of Whistler, in 1975 The SLRD pre-dates Whistler by seven years, as it was created in 1968 and made up of Squamish, Lillooet and Pemberton and rural areas at the time.

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EDITORIAL

STAY COOL

High-temperaturerecords were smashedin Squamish threedaysinarow last weekend.

And, theRiver Forecast Centre liststhe UpperSquamish Riveras oneof12snowstations that measured all-time lowsnowwater equivalents (SWE)onMarch 1.

SWEisameasure of theamountofwater in the snowpack. The UpperSquamishRiverstation showed 42%ofthe normal amount of waterinthe snow.Thatisa32-year southcoast low.

Theverdict is in,the weatherisincreasinglywacky andwarmer.

Accordingtothe WorldEconomicForum,extreme heat is theleadingcauseofweather-relateddeaths worldwide

REPORTER ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@ squamishchief.com

EDITOR JENNIFERTHUNCHER jthuncher@ squamishchief.com follow @thuncher SALESMANAGER CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com

MULTI- MEDIASALES REPRESENTATIVE KIMBOATMAN kboatman@ squamishchief.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER DENISE CONWAY dconway@ squamishchief.com

PUBLISHER SARAHSTROTHER sstrother@wplpmedia.com

The Squamish Chiefisa member of theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependent organization establishedtodealwithacceptable journalistic practicesand ethical behaviour. If youhaveconcerns abouteditorial content, please contactEditorJenniferThuncherat jthuncher@squamishchief.com. If you arenot satisfiedwiththe response andwishtofilea formal complaint, visitthe websiteatmediacouncil.ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163for additional information

Reproduction of anymaterial containedinthispublicationis expresslyforbiddenwithoutthe prior writtenconsent of thepublisher.

We will need to thinkmoreabout howwedesign ourhousing in ordertokeepuscool, butwiththe warmer season alreadyuponus, future designs won’thelpusnow.

So,inour dailylives, we have to plan andthink more like people in hotcountries than like folksused to milder climates.

It makessense,for example, to have treesand othergarden itemsthatprovide shade, if youcan.(If youare lookingtobuy anew place, does it have opportunitiesfor shade?)

Accordingtothe U.S. Department of Energy,itcan be up to 4Ccoolerunder atree.

Andair conditioning units,while nothistorically somethingwewestcoastersneeded,are necessary now.

If youcan affordtoretrofityourhometobemore energy-efficient and heat-sufficient, do that,but many of us likely can’tinthiseconomy.

So,snaga portable airconditioner or even a couple of boxfansat alocal home improvementstore before thenextheatwavehits.

(If youcan’t afford an airconditioner,considerthe BCHydro free programs basedonincome.)

With ourgorgeousviews,weall typicallylove having ourblindsup, butitisabad idea if staying cool is your goal.Keepyourblindsclosed, andifable, getblock-out curtains to keep thehouse cooler.

Andifyou have aceiling fan, theGovernmentof SouthAustralia—which shouldknowa thingortwo aboutheat—says to “set your ceilingfanstorotate counter-clockwise in summer to push airstraight down,helpingtocreateacooling effect and clockwiseinwintertopullcoolair up.Inwarmer weather,set thefan speed high.”

And, with thelow snowpack,weare goingtoneed to change ourwater-thirsty culture.

If youhave agreen thumb, tryXeriscaping, which meansusing plants that requirelesswater.And,get in thehabit of neverpouringwater down thedrain when theremay be anotheruse forit—like forplants. Also,don’t runthe tap, letting unused watergodown the drainand getusedtoshortershowers.

Thenew hotter normal is here,and thesoonerwe adapt, thecoolerwewillall be.

HOUSINGCRISISATHEART OF POTENTIALPOILIEVRE-EBY ALLIANCE

KIRK LAPOINTE ELECTION VIEWS

Atfirst blush, B.C. PremierDavid Ebyand federalConservativeLeaderPierrePoilievre have little in common otherthanbeing carbon-based forms of life

They couldn’t be more polarizedideologically or more obsessivelycertain abouttheir contrasting visions of government’sroleinthe economy.One searches foranswers viagovernmentinvolvement, onesearchesfor answerstogovernmentinvolvement.Eby leverages public investment and regulatory reform,Poilievre wouldreducegovernment intervention andquicken market responses.

Before long,whether we like it or not, andunless thereisthe shocktoend allshocksinCanadian politics,they’ll lead ourseniorlevelsofgovernment –possiblyfor yearstocome.

Butuponcloserexamination,you candetect at leastone shared purposeuponwhich they mightone daydobusiness: Cities andtheir lethargichousing construction.

MayIsay:Citymayors, beware.Hidethe good cutlery.

As we know,Eby hasbeenplaying tough-love with cities andhousing forsometimenow.Hewants to densifyloads of single-family residentialhousing

zones, accelerate permitting,suffocate public hearings andstimulate alargerstableoftowersnear transitroutes. Hisgovernmentidentifieda“naughty list”ofshamefulmunicipalitiesthatneedtoraise theirgamequickly with building quotas or face provincial edictsthrough arareuse of constitutional authority.

Now, it is fair to sayhis government is late to arrive on this issueand with theseprescriptions.The horse hasnot merely left thestable, buthas bred andbeen earmarkedfor thegluefactory.Still,it’srarelytoo late forany government to foistlastdecade’sideas if it conveysthe appearance of taking something seriouslywitharapid response

Ever politicallyshrewd, Ebyand HousingMinister Ravi Kahlon carpet-bombedthe province with housinglegislation late enough in theelectioncycle so as nottobeblamedifplans aren’t fulfilledbythe Oct. 19 voteday

“We’re on it,” they’llsay,and hardly anyone will call theirbabyugly.

On theother hand,the primeminister, or what’s left of himand hisparty by thenextelectioninthe fall of 2025,won’t be so lucky. Thepublicpatience will be wearingthinwhenweare onemoreyearout andevenfurther away from satisfying thedemand forhousing stock. When Justin Trudeau says we’reon it,the votersmay just say, “We’re on to you.”

On theother side of the2025federal election,polls tell us,isbound to be PrimeMinisterPierrePoilievre,

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)

ELECTION: Continued from 12

and on the basis of what he’s saying so far, he’d bring a pretty sharp stick to the cities and their housing activity

At a speech earlier this month to the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, Poilievre characterized all forms of government as toll-takers on an asset class. He is particularly perturbed with municipalities for not only their fees but their languid processes of issuing permits and approvals.

His beliefs can get the better of the facts when he claims that 60% of a new unit’s cost in Vancouver is attributable to governments Experts don’t agree it’s quite that high but don’t think the claim is whackadoodle, either, when the

Conservative leader includes not only the assortment of charges but the expense that saddles developers when permitting processes protract Poilievre wants levies conquered, processes at warp speed, and an increase of 15% in housing completions year-overyear in major cities The would-be PM says his government would take federal money away from cities if they don’t meet their finished-housing targets and continue to lose funds until they catch up on the shortfall. Transit and infrastructure funds would be withheld until a sufficient number of high-density housing around stations is not only scheduled but built and occupied (They would earn bonuses for exceeding targets.)

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

DEFENDING MY RECORD

In light of recent criticism levelled by the newly named Conservative candidate in our riding of my work as your member of parliament [“‘People are struggling’: Conservative candidate lays out goals and message,” published online March 7], I’d like to correct the record and share some notable results achieved in our riding over the past four and a half years:

1) Funding over 1,000 new affordable housing units in our communities and streamlining the housing development process by working directly with municipalities

2) Introducing affordable childcare and creating almost 550 $10/day spaces in our communities, cutting fees in half across the board.

3) Policies that have cut the national poverty rate in half from 2015, including local projects that feed vulnerable seniors.

4) The largest recovery package in Canadian history for any species to restore wild Pacific salmon

5) Launching the $1 billion Nature Agreement with B.C. and First Nations to protect 30% of B.C.’s nature by 2030, prioritizing the preservation of our remaining Old Growth Forests, as per my motion M-83. And the passage of historic legislation I championed to establish the right of Canadians to a

LETTERS POLICY

The Squamish Chief

clean, healthy, and sustainable environment.

6) Rollout of the first serious climate plan in Canada’s history that has reduced emissions more than any G-7 country since I was first elected, and driven local economic growth, particularly in the clean tech hub of Squamish.

7) Working with our business sector to ensure they had the support to get through the pandemic, allowing our hardest-hit sectors like tourism to exceed pre-pandemic business I’ve always put our communities first, even when it meant challenging my party’s policies, including on climate, electoral reform, and foreign affairs. That’s real representation

In contrast, the Conservative Party deals in slogans, not real solutions. Just ask Mr Roy, how will the Conservative Party axe the provincial B.C. carbon tax?

That’s why the Conservatives under Harper never built any affordable housing. Instead of supporting families, they sent cheques to millionaires Climate action was denying its existence to maximize fossil fuel extraction They gutted environmental law and muzzled scientists Their record was higher taxes on small businesses, higher taxes on the middle class, and higher unemployment.

I’ll stay laser-focused on real solutions. This includes building more affordable

That they will disagree as diametrically dissimilar leaders in style and strategies is unquestioned. That they approach challenges differently doesn’t mean they can’t be buddies on this one matter That they will one day stand on the same stage and shake hands on a done deal pushing this city or that one concerning the critical, chronic housing shortage is something I wouldn’t bet against. They would have a common perceived villain who, for once, isn’t each other, and their momentary truce would be just too tempting to pass up

Kirk LaPointe is a journalist and former publisher and editor-in-chief of Business in Vancouver and vice-president editorial of Glacier Media Group

JOIN US ONLINE

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

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Have your say at squamishchief.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

Do you think there is too much policing of language these days?

homes, tackling cost of living challenges, improving transportation options, growing our economy and building a healthier future.

Our community faces an important choice in the next election, and I look forward to an honest debate based on facts.

Patrick Weiler Member of Parliament for West Vancouver-Sunshine CoastSea to Sky Country

INVEST IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

As Capilano University arrives, prioritizing early learning is crucial for Squamish’s future

In her seminal work Thirty Million Words, professor Dana Suskind eloquently stated, “. her third-grade reading is barely at the level of a kindergartener, a predictor of her life to come.”

This powerful quote encapsulates the critical importance of early childhood education, especially in communities like Squamish, where the industry landscape is evolving

Consider the hypothetical child Suskind references, who had her hearing difficulties corrected but faced a home environment lacking in educational

LETTERS: Continued on 14

MOST READ STORY

Extensive search suspended for woman swept way in Mamquam River, say Squamish RCMP

TOP TIKTOK OF THE WEEK

This week, at least 100 people were in attendance at the Squamish Adventure Centre to learn about upcoming educational programs at Capilano University The school will open in the fall on the former Quest University campus Check out this and other videos on our TikTok channel @squamishchief

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

LETTERS: Continued from 13 stimuli.

Despite medical intervention, her academic performance suffered, foreshadowing potential challenges in her future This narrative underscores a profound truth: education begins long before a child steps into a classroom

Squamish has long been synonymous with outdoor recreation, but as the arrival of Capilano University looms on the horizon, it’s time to reassess our priorities While higher education opportunities are undoubtedly beneficial, they are the culmination of a journey that begins in the earliest years of a child’s life With traditional industries like mining and mills dwindling, the future prosperity of Squamish hinges on cultivating a skilled and educated workforce.

Investing in early childhood education isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s an economic necessity. Research consistently demonstrates the lifelong benefits of quality early learning experiences.

Children who participate in high-quality early education programs exhibit better academic performance, higher earning potential, and reduced likelihood of involvement in crime later in life.

These outcomes are not just advantageous for individuals but for the community as a whole.

Moreover, early childhood education serves as a crucial equalizer, bridging the gap between

children from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

By providing all children with access to enriching educational opportunities from an early age, we can mitigate the disparities that hinder social mobility and perpetuate cycles of poverty

As Squamish transitions from an industry-focused town to a hub of education and innovation, we must recognize that our greatest resource lies in the potential of our youth. Building a foundation of early learning ensures that every child in Squamish has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances of birth.

So, let us seize this opportunity to prioritize the education of our youngest citizens In doing so, we will pave the way for a brighter tomorrow for Squamish and all who call it home

Anthony Bianco Squamish

EDITORIAL WAS PATRONIZING

Iam writing in response to the editorial Who’s got the power? published in December, which suggested that residents engaged in municipal politics are often unfamiliar with where power lies in our political system.

The editorial referenced a municipal council meeting where “folks rallied the council demanding action on the IsraelHamas war” and cited a professor that said, “People get frustrated and just want action

on an issue that they are passionate about, so they target wherever they can be heard.” The editorial continued to suggest that residents lobbying for their councillors to call for a ceasefire were misdirected or uninformed.

While it is true that people often take action where they can, it is not true that their intentions are always misdirected.

If we look at what happened at that city council meeting, councillors voted on a motion to send a letter to the Prime Minister to call for a ceasefire. A number of councillors suggested they could not comment on this issue because it is outside of what they are mandated to do, while other councillors confirmed that it is well within their jurisdiction to write a letter to the Prime Minister

It is also worth noting that this council meeting came after Burnaby passed a motion to call for a ceasefire, and a week before, the council of Port Alberni did the same. So it seems that Squamish residents are very familiar with what city councillors are able to do.

But for some reason, some of the Squamish councillors tried to convince residents that the council is unable to take a position on an international issue and write a letter to the Prime Minister. But it is not true that they are unable to do so; however, it is true that they took a political position not to.

Not ‘wanting to’ and not being ‘able to’ are two different things

When city councillors tell their constituents that they are not able to do something (that they are able to do) and the local newspaper writes an article echoing this, the message that is being sent is that residents should just not bother to engage in certain issues because they just don’t seem to know how things work

When it comes to lobbying the city to call for a ceasefire: Not only is this message untrue It is also patronizing.

Maryam Adrangi

Squamish

HAPPY ABOUT PARADISE TRAILS

Iwas very happy to read that the developers of the Paradise Trails at Squamish equestrian project have filed a development permit [“Paradise Trails submits development permit application to District of Squamish, published online on March 13.]

As an avid horse person and looking towards moving to the area this would be perfect for my family. I have been following this project for many years and I am saddened that the district has dragged its feet on it. This seems to me to be a project well suited to the area and with the addition of secondary suites, it would bring much-needed affordable housing to the area.

I hope the council approves this quickly and the developer can break ground soon!

Alana Strachan Campbell River

LOCAL MATH HISTORIAN REDEFINES ORIGIN OF DECIMAL POINT

Historic Revelation: Trinity Western prof uncovers that the decimal point was used 150 years before previously thought

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

The night he realized what he discovered, Squamish mathematics historian and professor Glen Van Brummelen ran up and down the halls of the dorm where he was staying to teach a math camp, looking for someone to tell his news, he told National Public Radio (NPR) last month.

“I think they probably thought I was crazy,” he said

Soon, the world would know of his discovery.

While researching late medieval and early Renaissance astronomy in the summer of 2019, Van Brummelen noticed a surprising usage of a decimal point in an ancient table.

Van Brummelen was in Michigan at the time, teaching his annual MathPath summer camp for middle school students and doing research at night.

Before this discovery, it was widely held that German astronomer Christopher Clavius was the first to use the decimal point in 1593 Van Brummelen discovered that Giovanni Bianchini, an Italian astrologer, used the decimal point about 150 years before

In Bianchini’s time, astrology was serious business, unlike our less serious conception of

astrology today—horoscopes in newspapers.

“It was a much more precise discipline. And it still is today, actually. What you read in the newspapers just scraped the surface of what professional astrologers will do In fact, astrology at that time was probably the leading source of difficult math problems for astronomers to solve,” Van Brummelen told The Squamish Chief this week

At that point, astrology was a fundamental aspect of running a business, Van Brummelen noted.

Bianchini was likely using the decimal point “to do measurements of altitudes and of distances on the Earth’s surface using this instrument, biffa.”

After that, people used Bianchini’s decimal system, but not in full, Van Brummelen said It was used for the whole numbered parts, not for the fractional parts

“It took the revival of Clavius 150 years later for that decimal point to be rediscovered, to be re-reintroduced to the world.”

WHY THE DECIMAL POINT MATTERS

“The reason that decimal point and our decimal fractions are so important is that we can now use a single number system that can SUBMITTED PHOTO Squamish’s

ON POINT: Continued on 17

Glen Van Brummelen.

STUDENTS LEARN CRITICAL MINE SAFETY SKILLS

Mock disaster drill at Britannia Mine Museum challenges university teams in a high-stakes mine rescue competition, emphasizing safety and readiness in the mining industry

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

After a massive earthquake, fires burn above ground and smoke fills an underground mine shaft.

This is the simulated emergency that recently played out during the Intercollegiate Mine Emergency Response Competition held in the Sea to Sky Corridor.

These mock exercises with university student teams tested participants’ knowledge and skills to the max.

The competition, held at Britannia Mine Museum on Feb. 23 and 24, saw two U.S. teams and three Canadian university teams participate.

According to the museum, it was only the second intercollegiate mine rescue competition in Canadian history.

Most of the students are part of mine engineering programs at their universities.

Judges of the competition were company-employed mine rescue team members and other professionals in related fields.

PUT TO THE TEST

West Virginia University took first place

underground search and rescue.

Other teams were from the University of British Columbia (which came in second overall and first in the rope rescue competition),

Alberta (fourth) and the University of Utah (fifth).

Each team had seven or eight members.

history.

According to a U.S. Energy Information Administration’s annual report, as of 2022, there were 151 active mines in the state.

Participants had to respond to emergencies resulting from the simulated earthquake, with realism being the event’s primary goal, according to event organizer Dan Hagn, a fourth-year UBC engineering student.

Hagn, who is slated to graduate next month, wanted the event to promote the safety culture within the mining industry

The teams fought live fires, responded to a mass casualty accident, extricated victims using high-angle rope rescue, conducted an underground search and rescue mission, as well as tackled other technical challenges

LOCAL HOSTS

Britannia Mine Museum staff were great hosts, closing some areas to tourists for the event, and Britannia Beach Volunteer Fire Department was invaluable in supporting the competition, said Hagn

Volunteers from the department hosted the firefighting event above ground

“It was really fun to the students; they fought fires right in front of the fire department,” he said.

As for what made the West Virginia team victorious, Hagn said it was their work ethic.

“They practice three times a week at 6 a.m. The work ethic is incredible. They have almost a military kind of obedience to the coaches. It’s very interesting,” he said.

“They also have a full-time coaching staff of three, and most other teams have [one] coach,” he said, noting that West Virginia’s coaches are on-site while other team coaches are often not.

West Virginia is known for its long mining

“It’s pretty much the lifeblood of the state,” said Hagn.

The BC Mine Information website currently profiles 78 metal and coal mines in the province

Hagn said his biggest takeaway from the student competition was that the mistakes made during the exercises will be learned from, so they aren’t repeated in real life

Some of the mistakes they made would have been fatal in an actual emergency, he noted.

“All four teams killed one of the victims in the gas environment. That’s a mistake they’ll never make in their real life,” he said

“The takeaway is that the lessons learned here are probably going to save a life at some point. And that’s kind of mind-blowing.”

Another highlight of the event for Hagn was the camaraderie formed among the members of the teams.

There was a casual gathering after the closing ceremonies, and Hagn said many students vowed to stay in touch.

“We’ve actually started to create a student mine community that spans the entire continent, which is very cool.”

As for Hagn’s future, he has already signed a contract for a job in mining after his graduation.

He will be working for Pogo Mine, in Alaska.

The recent Britannia Beach mock emergency event partnered with Draeger Safety, Redding Mining, the Emergency Response Team from Newmont Red Chris mine, and Dynamic Rescue Systems.

Funding was provided by UBC Applied Science and Skeena Resources.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The competition, held at Britannia Mine Museum on Feb. 23 and 24, saw two U.S. teams and three Canadian university teams participate.

be used forsurveying or forastrology or for calculating theprice of ourgrocery bill,” said VanBrummelen,whose paperon the discovery, Decimalfractionalnumerationand thedecimal pointin15th-centuryItaly, was publishedonlineinFebruary.

“You canuse thedecimal system forall sortsofapplications outthere.And itsability to transfer andbeauniversal system forall sortsofpurposes is what makesitso powerful.”

Before hisroleatTrinity WesternUniversity, VanBrummelen wasafoundingfaculty member andmathematics division co-ordinator of thenow-shuttered QuestUniversity.

At thetimeofthe discovery, he wasworking on translatingdocuments from Latinwith DarcyOtto, afellowformerQuest mathematicsprofessor

Thediscovery hasmadewavesworldwide, with about120 articles published on it in variouslanguages,Van Brummelensaid.

WHYNOT DISCOVERED SOONER?

Askedwhy he thinks thediscovery wasn’t made sooner,Van Brummelenhumblysaidit maybehehas aniche skillset.

“Therearen’tthatmanypeoplewho study medieval science,”hesaid. “And thereare lots of manuscriptsout therethathaven’t been read very carefully. It requires aratherunique collection of skills.And theone skillthatI happened to luck into wasbothbeing able to read theLatin andunderstandthe mathematicsbehindit; andtobeabletoworkwith theLatin,the astronomy, andthe mathematicsall at once Therearen’tall that many people whoare willingtodevotetheir researchcareers to that weirdcollectionof talents.”

He said he prides himselfonbeing a

mathematicsteacher first, before a researcher. He said themathphobiamany have stemsfromthe wayitisusually taught.

He tellsoftaking17mathcourses in thelast year of hisundergraduate degree in mathematics

“I foundthatinall 17 of thosecourses,these instructorswereanswering questionsthatI had neverasked,” he said,notingthatmathis notoften taught with thewhy question in mind,especiallyatyounger grades

“Whenwe’re workingonmath, we’re basicallybeing trainedtopassatest. Butthe waythatmath—or anysystemof knowledge—really becomesingrained in us is if we know why it’s important, andwehaveaway to attach it with ourdaily experience,” he said

“SoI decidedtogointothe historyofmath as my career basicallytohelpanswerthose whyquestions andtheneventuallybring them back to theclassroom.”

WHAT IS NEXT

As forwhatisnext, VanBrummelen hashis own why questionstoanswerabout Bianchini.

He said that theworkthe decimalpoint discovery came from wasnot Bianchini’smost significantwork.

“There’s alot more to discover aboutthis man,”he said.“He wasright on theborder between themedievalperiodand the Renaissance. …And he maybeone of the peoplewho really helped to triggerthe scientific side of theRenaissance in Italy. And so,the question is,where didheget hissource of inspirationfor allofthis? Washesimply naturally brilliant? Or were theresome sourcesthathelpedhim?Westill don’tquite knowthe answer to that.”

Findout more on theTrinity Western Universitywebsite

PHOTOBYBRIAN AIKENS

TINY SQUAMISH DETAILS: Birds’ nest fungi. Have aphoto to share? Send it to news@ squamishchief.com

AFAMILY’SUNWAVERINGLOVE

Kurt Patrick’smiraculoussurvivaland ongoingrecoveryfromacatastrophic caraccidentunderscorethe poweroflove, supportand determination

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Squamish’s Kurt Patrickwas behind the wheelwhenthe life-alteringcar accident happened in 1991,but themorethan three decadesofcareand life sincehavebeena family—and community—affair

OnMarch 23,Patrick will turn 50

When he was17atHoweSound Secondary— with girlfriendsand sports as hismain interests, says hisdad,Don—Patrick wasone dayawayfromstartinga job at Save-On-Foods (previously knownasOverwaiteaFoods)

“His work clotheswereneatlyfolded in his room forthatfirst day,”Don told TheSquamish Chief.

However, on July 3, 1991,at2:50p.m., Patrick, driving hisprizedred Firebird with awhite interior,crashed into theback of agarbage truckonHighway 99 at ScottCrescent.

Patrickdoesn’t remember thecrash at all, but itisbelievedhewas lookingoff to thesideata hitchhiker on theshoulderwhenheslammed into thetruck.

Hisdad recalled that theforks on thesmall garbage bincarrier came throughthe windshield,strikingthe left side of Patrick’s

head.

Meet Bell

option forhim to be in long-termcare permanently, buthis mother Lyndawas having noneofthat

Herboy wascominghomefor good

COMING HOME

Over theyears since, Patrick’sparents—led by Lynda—have bought andrenovated houses to make them accessible fortheir son.

They builttheir currentDiamond Head Road home,incorporating an entirely accessible wing,withits ownkitchen,sprawling washroom andaccessiblebackyard.

“Never forone minute have Iregretted it,” Lyndasaidofthe family’s decision to bring Patrickhome.

“We’ve had agoodtime, haven’t we,Kurt?” sheadded

Patrickenthusiasticallyresponded,“Yeah.”

“I keep busy.Mylifewould notmakesense to anyone if it weren’tfor Kurt,” Lyndasaid.

LIFE WELL LIVED

Andwhile things havenot been easy forany of them theloveofthe family anddetermination to make themostoflifehas meantithasn’t been aboringone.

Therehavebeencruises—seven or eightto Alaska—and many othertrips to places like Hawaii andEgypt.

It is ascarthatremains today. Thecar wastotalled. Patrickwas notexpectedtolive. Buthedid RECOVERY

He wasinLions Gate Hospital forone year,in a coma forsix months of it—his family travelling down to visithim everyday

He then spentanother twoyears at George PearsonCentre, aresidential rehabilitation care facility,inVancouver

Thecrash made thelocal paper, andmanyin thecommunity came to visitand helped along theway,his parentssay

At first, he couldcomehomefor weekend visits.

“The firsttimetheybrought him[home] in theambulance,theybrought them up to his bedroomand then thehouse wasfullof companycominginto visitall day,”his mom, Lynda, recalled.

Patrickdidn’teat normally foryears untila visithomefromGerogePearson when hismom gothim aMcDonald’scheeseburger, whichdid thetrick

Thesedays, he likespasta,meatand potatoes,jambalaya,and arange of other dishes, butnot vegetablesorsweets—noteven the birthday cake that will arrive forhis 50th.

Patrickrecentlyspoke to TheSquamish Chief,sometimes throughhis parentsas translators, as hisability to speakisrestricted.

With thecarePatrick needs—he gets some homecareassistancedaily—there wasthe

TherewereCanucks games—even goingon centre icefor his40thbirthday.

Foratime, they also hadanRVthatwas modified to accommodatePatrick.

Andthere have been celebrityencounters arranged by friendsand supporters

Patrickmet Dwayne “The Rock”Johnson when he wasintownfilming WalkingTall in theearly 2000s.

“Kurtliked wrestlingatthe time.And he wasabig fanofThe Rock.So, when [his homecare worker at thetime] foundout that he wasstarringin this movie, sheasked, ‘Could he meet with Kurt?’ So shetookhim down there. He says thepolicemet himand took himintoThe Rock andtheyspent 57 minutestogether,”Don recalled

CraigHendrickson,the former NFLfootball player,alsocamebyand metwithPatrick

In termsofother activities,Patrick spends hourscompletingpuzzles—there have been hundreds

Donspeakstothe communityand thecare many have givensince thecrash

“There’s so many people in Squamish that have been aserious part [ofthis],” he said “Right from thefirst daywhenwehad the accident.”

Although Patrickhas hadhis struggles, his dadsaiditisimportant that when interacting with individualslivingwithdisabilities, people seethe similarities,not just the differences.

“They’re real people,and they do everythingthatwedo, they just have ahardtime doing it.”

SUBMITTEDPHOTO

ThePatrick family:Kurt, surrounded by hisparents Donand Lynda, andsisterHeidi andher family

SQUAMISH NATION ARTIST HONOURED

‘A Transformation of Spirits’ shows the creation of the Welcome Totem Pole by See Appl-tun and local youth

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Abook about a Sḵwx wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) artist and the Welcome Totem Pole outside of Foundry Sea to Sky will soon be publicly available at the Squamish Public Library

On March 13, over 50 people gathered at the library in a ceremony to honour See Appl-tun (Art Harry) and his many contributions to youth in Squamish

As part of that honouring, the library dedicated a book about creating the Welcome Totem Pole with Harry and local youth to its local history collection

Three copies of the book, A Transformation of Spirits, will be available for the public to check out in early April.

At the event, Harry said he was honoured and very inspired to share Squamish Nation culture with others.

“It makes my heart happy [to] pass a little bit of knowledge of carving along,” he said.

Jaye Russell, the executive director of Sea

to Sky Community Services, which operates Foundry Sea to Sky, thanked Harry for his help in offering “once in a lifetime” experiences for local youth.

Many Nation Elders and members spoke fondly of Harry while they recounted stories and shared how proud they were of him and his help in the community.

Tsawaysia Spukwus (Alice Guss) said Harry shared many teachings with the youth as they carved the pole

“But that pole has so much more meaning than what you see in the picture,” she said “It goes generations back.”

Through tears, another Nation member shared the Victory Song to honour Harry.

People at the event also saw two short videos from filmmaker Darren Roberts of Racer Creative about local Squamish Nation Elders and the Foundry Sea to Sky’s annual Canoe Pull on Truth and Reconciliation Day. The videos are available to view on Sea to Sky Community Services’ YouTube channel.

For more information about the book and its availability, visit squamishlibrary.ca.

Disclosure: Andrew Hughes’ partner is an employee of Sea to Sky Community Services.

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Christine TlatlaKwot Baker holds the new book by See Appl-tun (Art Harry) at Squamish Public Library

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53. Sensitive

54. Understand text

55. House wing

56. Metes out

57. Profits

58. Ump’s cousin

DOWN

1. Oahu souvenirs

2. Curved doorway

3. BLT dressing

4. Fire sign

5. Blend

6. Half of two

7. Soft drink: 2 wds.

8. Superman’s garb

9. Soprano’s solo

10. Telescope part

11. Huron or Tahoe

19. Uncanny

ARIES

March 21-April 19

You may need to negotiate skillfully in various contexts such as at work or with your friends or partner to achieve harmony. You’ll have to make compromises and adjustments to cultivate happiness in all your relationships

TAURUS

April 20-May 20

At work, you may experience some confusion and conflict This could prompt you to start thinking about a career change. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons and get advice from those closest to you.

GEMINI

May 21-June 20

You’ll find yourself in a position to stand out. This could transform your life in the long term Your value will be highlighted in a variety of ways, boosting your self-esteem and self-confidence

CANCER

June 21-July 22

HOW

Fill

July 23-Aug. 22

You may decide to move soon, especially if the family home has proved too big since your children left the nest. In your relationship, change could strengthen or rekindle your passion.

LEO

Your outspokenness will be evident as you express openly what others think in silence A secret could leave you perplexed for a while The Full Moon will have a revealing effect. A revelation will show you the way forward

VIRGO

Aug. 23-Sept. 22

If you’re struggling financially, you could discover some interesting solutions You’ll finally get the opportunity to invest in a project dear to your heart or, at least, to redecorate your home

TheParish 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 info@squamishanglicanchurch.ca

21. Coral ridge

23. Tenderfoot

24. Indy 500 participant

25. Dog’s doc

26. Metal-bearing rock

27. Deep anger

29. Mature

30. Orleans

31. Yearning

33. Medicine

37. Porky’s pen

39. Passes along

40. Or (threat)

41. Recess

42. Fairy-tale baddie

43. Operates

45. At all

46. Annoy

47. Personality

50. Sign of triumph

51. Erode

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS:

SCRIBBLE BOX

LIBRA

Sept. 23-Oct. 22

This will be an active and dynamic week You may need to shake things up with certain people Even if you prefer keeping the peace, it’s time to assert your position to re-establish harmony with those close to you.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23-Nov. 21

Your talents will increase tenfold, opening the door to a spiritual awakening. You’ll develop a deeper perspective and greater empathy, allowing you to see things in a new light. The artist in you could also be revealed

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22-Dec. 21

A post on social media could inspire you. Someone close to you will play a key role in helping you become the person you’ve always wanted to be This will guide you toward fulfillment and happiness.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22-Jan. 19

If you have a jam-packed week, make sure to space out your appointments to avoid scheduling conflicts and minimize the pressure Time is precious; carefully manage yours.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20-Feb 18

You could decide to radically change your life on a whim This transformation could involve going back to school or starting a new career in line with your deepest aspirations

PISCES

Feb. 19-March 20

The heart has its reasons, which reason knows not Even if you try to rationalize a situation, your emotions will influence your choices Sometimes, you must step out of your comfort zone to move in the right direction.

ExaltingJesus,Equipping His Followers,Engaging theWorld

WorshipService

Sundays 10am on our website and Facebook Live 2262ReadCres. 604-898-3737

www.squamishbaptistchurch.org

coastalchurch.org/squamish

Whatisa floatel?

Floatels areincreasingly beingused forworker accommodation whenland-based options pose significant challenges, as theycan bequickly positionedand removed and canbeoperatedsustainably, leaving no ecological footprintafter departure. TheWoodfibreLNG floatelisa modern vessel with state-of-the-art sewage,water and powerservicesthatmeet or exceed Canadian and provincial regulations.Aconverted cruise ship,the floatel offers apremium live-work environmentfor its residents, including:

•Individual rooms with privateensuites

•Catered dining areas

•Outdoorand sports lounge

•8,000 square foot fitness facility

•Billiardsand games room

Whyisa floatelbeing used on the Project?

In2019, Woodfibrebeganthe processofgathering input fromthe communityabout the potential impactofthe construction projectand developmentofanLNG facility. We received thousands of comments,manyregistering concerns about traditional work camps,the potential influx of non-localworkers, and potential impactson rental housing,traffic and the safetyofwomen and girls. We listened,weheard, andweresponded witha community-driven solutioninthe form of afloatel.

Howdoesa floateladdress concerns expressed by the community?

From thestart,our priorityhas been to ensurethe constructionofthe WoodfibreLNG facilityhas as little impactonSquamish as possibleand thefloateldoesjust that.

WoodfibreLNG received an amendmenttoits environmentalassessmentcertificate to authorizethe floatel,and conditions thatrestrict communityaccess and travel into the communityfor non-local workers.

Major projects don’t need to have major impacts.

Woodfibre LNG’s floating workforceaccommodation,also knownas the floatel, is expectedtoarrive at theWoodfibreLNG projectsitein spring of 2023 where it will remain moored until the completion of construction in 2027. Thefloatelwillprovide high qualityhousing to approximately 650 non-local workers during construction of the WoodfibreLNG Project.

Accommodating workers on the floatel,alongwith firm restrictions on access to the community ,will mean that workers havenoimpactoncommunity infrastructureand services while providing them worldclass,safeand comfortableliving accommodations

The useofa floatel isalso supportedbya coalitionof hereditarychiefs and the project’s Gender Safety Committee Advisory Committee –and will address problemssometimesassociatedwithworkcamps, ensuring asafeworking environmentfor allworkers, including Indigenouswomen.

When areworkers expectedtooccupythe floatel?

Theprovincial governmentand Squamish First Nation formally approved the floatel severalmonths ago. We now awaitapproval by the DistrictofSquamish. Workers are anticipatedtooccupythe floatel in spring2024.

Whatisthe cost of thefloateland whois footing thebill?

Woodfibre LNG pays the full cost of the $100 million floatel andthe cost of catering,housekeeping, andother services on board, as part of itscommitmenttoensure the project has as little impactonSquamish as possible.

How will gender safetybeaddressed on the floatel?

To work on the project,all workers mustsigna code of conductwhich includesgender safety provisions and are required to take ahalf-day, in personcultural awareness andgender safety training sessiondelivered by Squamish Nation trainers.Tofurthersupportawelcoming and respectfulworkplace culture, IndigenousFloatel Cultural Managers will be onboardthe vessel.A first-of-its-kind Genderand CulturalSafetyManagementPlanisa provincialregulatoryrequirementonthe projectand will furtherthe zero tolerancepolicyfor,and provide safe and appropriate mechanismsfor preventing and responding to,any form of bullying,harassment, or sexualized violence.

Inaddition, 24- hour safetyand securitymeasures arein place, including securitybadging stations and onboard security, to ensurethe comfortand safetyofall workers

Howwill workers be transportedtoand fromthe floatel?

To ensurenoimpactsontraffic through Squamish, non-local workers will be transportedbyboatfromthe LowerMainland to and fromthe floatelatthe Woodfibre LNG projectsite.

What is the environmental impactofthe floatel?

Thefloatelisdesigned to have net zero environmental impact,will operateonhydroelectric shore powerand has awide arrayofadvanced environmental systems including a water treatmentsystem, industrial heatpumps,and sewage treatmentthatincludes ultrafiltration, alow intensityUVunit,and shipping to awaste management facilityinBC. In addition, the floatelisdesigned to eliminate wasteand recycleasmuch as possible.

Watchtolearn moreabout WoodfibreLNG’s commitment to community and worker safety.

woodfibrelng.ca/floatel