May 2, 2024 Squamish Chief

DISCOVER SQUAMISH

Our

DOS RELEASES DETAILS OF CUPE AGREEMENT

Union staff to receive 11.5% pay bump across three years, plus 4.5% inflation lump sum.

ANDREW

The District of Squamish released some details of its bargaining conclusion with local Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) members. As council was informed in a District meeting and report from April 16, the District came to an agreement with its unionized workers in CUPE Local 2269 several months ago.

The report states, “The District ratified a three-year agreement in late 2023 with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which included a total 11.5% increase to union salaries across 2022, 2023 and 2024, and a 4.5% inflationary support lump sum payment for a total cost of approximately $2.5 [million].”

Celeste Bickford, the president of CUPE 2269, emailed The Squamish Chief confirming the agreement.

“CUPE Local 2269 members, who work for the District of Squamish, ratified a new collective agreement in early January 2024,” wrote Bickford,

CUPE: Continued on 3

PHOTO BY BRIAN AIKENS JUST DON’T LOOK DOWN: Riders on Tracks from Hell (between Edith Lake and Mashiter Trail) pass by the blooming skunk cabbage.

SEA DIKE GETS $6.3M BUDGET INCREASE FROM COUNCIL

Council increased the budget for the downtown sea dike project, citing necessary flood protection

ANDREW HUGHES

ahughes@squamishchief.com

The downtown sea diking project got a large budget increase approved by Squamish council on April 16

At the April 16 council meeting, alongside the budget increase to the Valleycliffe child care project, council unanimously approved a $6.3 million budget increase to a total of $18 million for the Xwúneḵw (whoo-nay-oak) Park sea dike project downtown.

According to the District report on the matter, the increases largely stem from further requirements to receive Fisheries Act authorization, estimated to cost about $4.2 million. The remaining $2.1 million comes from construction cost inflation since the project entered the permitting phase in March 2021

To pay for this increase, the District will borrow $5 million and make $1.3 million in community amenity contributions (CACs) The remaining $11.7 million is funded by $8 million

in borrowing and $3.7 million in grants.

While council members approved, they weren’t necessarily enthusiastic about the increase Mayor Armand Hurford said some of the delays are a result of regulations controlled by grant funders.

“So, they’re driving cost escalation, and it’s not reflected in the funding that we’re seeing,” he said

Still, numerous on council said the town needs to improve the sea dike to protect downtown from flooding, which was felt firsthand in December 2022 when a combination of weather factors led to flooding on the southern end of downtown Squamish

“I don’t see how we can responsibly not dike our downtown, considering we know the high probability of flooding,” said Coun Andrew

Hamilton

Coun Chris Pettingill said he was “getting a bit nervous” about the District’s dependency on borrowing in the financial plan, but ultimately nixing flood protection was out of the question

“For me, not proceeding with our flood hazard is not an option,” said Pettingill

The manager of municipal infrastructure, David Roulston, relayed that in-water construction could begin as soon as August 2024. Roulston said they hope to get the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) permit within the next few months.

Roulston said the dike would upgrade about 200 metres of oceanfront and include a ramp to access the water. The park would have a cycling and pedestrian path added, plus street furniture, lighting, and trees. Both the Squamish Paddling Club’s storage facility and the Xwúneḵw Canoe Restoration Shelter would be retained in the design

Roulston said there would be 10-year habitat monitoring after construction was completed.

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The location of the diking project, along the Mamquam Blind Channel.

NEW RECYCLE DEPOT TO OPEN ON JUNE 1

The new recycling depot will accept glass, flexible plastics, and foam seven days a week

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Just in time, the location of a new recycling depot has been announced to replace the Queens Way Recycle Depot operated by GFL.

The GFL depot will close to public drop-offs on May 31.

Recycle BC said in a news release this week that the new depot will be at 40446 Government Road, the site of the old Greyhound bus depot.

The new depot will accept glass, flexible plastics, and foam—which are not accepted in curbside, recycling totes—and mixed containers and paper.

The new depot will be open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., as stated in a news release.

The facility, which is soon to be the new home of Squamish Rebuild, is “designed to host a wide range of organizations, events, and activities with the common goal of promoting and enabling more sustainable behaviour in daily life,” the release states.

“A central, accessible recycling depot is important to effective community recycling and we are very happy that a local non-profit organization has offered a solution. Squamish ReBuild has been diverting waste for more than a decade and we look forward to their continued service to residents as our new Recycle BC depot host,” said Mayor Armand Hurford in a statement to The Squamish Chief.

For more recycling info, residents can download the Recycle BC app or visit RecycleBC.ca

CUPE: Continued from 1

adding that the union represents about 220 municipal workers. “Our members love serving the community they work and live in, but equally need to be able to support themselves and their families amid a rapidly rising cost of living.”

Bickford also said the relationship between the District and the union was strong, even though the union members neared a strike in mid-December 2023

“Although we did experience some bumps along the way, the relationship between the union and the District has grown stronger through bargaining, leaving us better able to work together for the benefit of the community,” said Bickford.

There was limited discussion on the agreement at the council meeting, but Coun. Jenna Stoner briefly said it was important to come to a conclusion

“That’s really critical work to make sure that we continue to be a place that people want to work that we can recruit and retain staff,” said Coun Jenna Stoner

The District report noted negotiations were influenced by “pattern bargaining,” or

That’s really critical work to make sure that we continue to be a place that people want to work that we can recruit and retain staff.

COUN. JENNA STONER

matching regional municipal settlements, which “created significant pressure on negotiations as the Lower Mainland agreements settled higher than anticipated.”

Exempt staff salaries were also assessed in 2023, according to the report, and an increase of $180,000 was OK’d for 2024 to keep exempt salaries at the 50th percentile of the current market, which is a number that was chosen in a compensation philosophy that was approved in 2020

Read more about the agreement from the April 16 council agenda available online at squamish.ca.

RCMP SEEK WITNESSES FOR PEDESTRIANS STRUCK BY DRIVER

On April 22, a driver struck a pedestrian and a baby in a stroller at the crosswalk at Pemberton and Second Avenue; driver arrested two blocks away

ANDREW HUGHES

ahughes@squamishchief.com

The Sea to Sky RCMP are investigating a terrifying accident and are seeking the public’s help

On Monday, April 22, at about 8:30 p.m., a driver struck a pedestrian and a baby in a stroller at the crosswalk at Pemberton and Second Avenue in downtown Squamish, according to the RCMP.

The RCMP say the driver fled the scene, but was found approximately two blocks away. A

news release from Tuesday, April 23, says the police subsequently arrested the driver, but no other information would be provided as the investigation is ongoing.

“The baby stroller, with the baby inside, was lodged into the front of the vehicle and appeared to have been dragged from the collision,” police said in the news release.

Both the person walking and the baby suffered non-life-threatening injuries and received medical attention. According to a GoFundMe page about the incident circulating online, the baby is back in the care of family and is “doing well.”

“This was a terribly traumatic event for the entire family to experience. Everyone is OK,

but this accident reminds us that life is precious and the effects of this will linger for a long time,” reads the page

Police ask that anyone in the area who has doorbell, home or business security camera footage from April 22 between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. to contact them Moreover, anyone who witnessed the incident, and has yet to speak to police, is asked to please call the Sea to Sky RCMP at the Squamish detachment at 604-892-6100

“Sea to Sky RCMP-Squamish are thanking the public for their quick actions in locating the vehicle, and providing timely information to police to assist in the investigation,” the release states.

WHY SOME LOCAL RAILWAY TRACKS ARE A NO-GO: CN POLICE ENFORCE TRESPASSING LAW

Residents given warnings by CN police for unsafe railway crossings

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief.com

CN police officers have been stopping people coming and going from the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary and warning them that crossing the tracks is unsafe and illegal.

A spokesperson for CN told The Squamish Chief that enforcement happens on an ongoing basis.

The “CN Police works closely with our neighbouring communities to ensure everyone is aware of the dangers of trespassing on the CN right-of-way and encroaching near rail infrastructure,” said Ashley Michnowski, in a written statement.

She said that this past week officers patrolling through the District of Squamish, saw that “many community members were

not being safe and were crossing over the tracks at locations not designated to cross,” she added.

“The CN Police team educated many community members of the dangers of trespassing on railway property and that tickets and fines could occur, but worse yet, loss of life We will continue to work with District of Squamish staff to remind the community of the dangers around the railway.”

Michnowski noted that Rocky Mountaineer will run through Squamish on Saturday, April 27, as the train travels between Vancouver and Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel.

“CN Police focuses on education, engineering, and enforcement to help protect public safety along our railway crossings.

CN POLICE

Enforcement has been conducted by CN police officers

CN has its own police force. Its constables hold all the powers of a peace officer under

the Railway Safety Act, “including those powers vested through the Criminal Code of Canada, to enforce violations occurring on or within 500 metres (550 yards) of CN’s railway network throughout Canada, in so far as the enforcement relates to the protection of property owned, possessed, or administered by the railway as well as the protection of persons while on CN property,” reads the CN website.

While at least one local, who wrote to The Squamish Chief in a letter to the editor, believed she was stopped by local Mounties, Staff Sgt. Gareth Bradley of the Sea to Sky RCMP told The Squamish Chief that local officers don’t make a habit of conducting enforcement on the tracks, as they are usually out answering service calls.

DISTRICT PERSPECTIVE

A spokesperson for the District said no one from the municipality has asked CN for its officers to enforce rail trespassing adjacent to the Squamish Estuary.

However, District staff were informed of CN’s concerns

“CN’s concerns were heightened because of recent CN Police patrols that witnessed a high number of people accessing the tracks in the area The section of rail in question is active track between Squamish Terminals and the rail yard, and we appreciate that CN’s actions are safety driven,” said the District’s Rachel Boguski.

“The District will seek to participate in conversations with CN, Wildlife Management Area managers, and the various landowners adjacent to the CN tracks to pursue a sanctioned pedestrian rail crossing(s),” Boguski added, in a written statement.

“There is shared recognition of the Squamish Estuary’s value to the community. Enabling safe, responsible access to the nature trails for environmental education and light recreation purposes on designated trails in accordance with the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Plan is an outcome the District encourages.”

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The corner where the crash occurred

FEELING HESITANT TO TEXT AN OLD FRIEND? NEW RESEARCH SAYS YOU’RE NOT ALONE

SFU study co-author Lara Aknin delves into the reluctance to reach out to past connections.

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Who hasn’t had this feeling? A memory of an old friend comes to mind; you have a pang of wanting to reconnect, but days and then weeks go by, and you just don’t

If that tracks for you, you aren’t alone.

New research published this week in the journal Nature Communications Psychology shows that many people hesitate to reconnect with an old friend, even if they have fond memories of that person and wish they were in touch.

Psychology professor Lara Aknin from SFU and professor Gillian Sandstrom from the University of Sussex in Brighton, in the U.K., undertook the study after they reconnected.

The pair went to grad school together at UBC, but over time had lost touch.

“It was New Year’s Day 2022 ... I sent her a text message saying Happy New Year, I miss you. Let’s find a project to keep in touch,” Aknin recalled to The Squamish Chief this week.

“We drew some inspiration from our period of disconnection, thinking that it would be fun to look at what are the reasons that people find and use to reach out to old friends.”

But as they got started, they kept bumping into the fact that, unlike Aknin, many people weren’t willing to reach out.

“We just kept finding that people were saying, ‘I certainly have an old friend that meets this criteria But I am not going to reach out.’ And we were just dumbfounded by this,” said Aknin, who is also the director of the Helping and Happiness Lab at SFU alongside being the co-author of the research paper.

And so the project pivoted to documenting this reality and how difficult it was to nudge people to make that move to contact an old friend

BY THE NUMBERS

The project included seven studies in which the pair of psychologists examined the perceptions of about 2,500 participants regarding reconnecting with former friends, the barriers and reasons for doing so, and whether targeted interventions could encourage them to send that first message to an old friend.

“We found that the majority of participants [90%] in our first study had lost touch with someone they still care about. Yet, a significant number [70%] were neutral, or even negative, about the idea of getting back in touch in that moment, even when they felt warmly about the friendship,” said Aknin in an SFU news release.

Their research found that even when study participants wanted to reconnect, believed the friend would be appreciative of the gesture, had their contact information, and were given time in the study to draft and send a short message, only 28% in one study and 37% in another study actually sent a message.

WHY SO HESITANT?

Aknin said that some later studies suggest that one reason people don’t reach out to old friends is that they start to feel like strangers after some time has passed.

“Supporting this possibility, we find that

people are no more willing to reach out to an old friend than they are to talk to a stranger and that people are less willing to reach out to old friends who feel less familiar—more like strangers,” reads the paper’s conclusion.

In their last study, though, the pair found that if people have practice making connections, they are more able to take the step with a lapsed friendship.

“We just gave people three minutes to practice sending messages to people in their current friends and family [group]—the people they frequently interact with,” Aknin said After that, the participants were asked to contact an old friend within a few minutes. This seemed to move the dial slightly on those who would reach out to people from their past

“We found that the people who had practised sending messages to their current friends and family were significantly more likely to send the message to an old friend It went from 31% in the control condition to 53% in the experimental condition.”

The point is that practice makes perfect when it comes to taking the risk of reaching out to old friends.

WHY DOES THIS MATTER?

The psychologists note that many studies

have found that social connection is important to human happiness.

“And that the greater the number and range of friendships that we engage with, the better our well-being,” reads the news release.

TIPS

Aknin said the researchers hope this study inspires more people to reach out to old friends.

“I think we often underestimate how well it’s going to go and how much the other person appreciates it I think, in many situations, we get a sense [that] people might be OK hearing from us But I think people often appreciate it way more than we see,” she said

“There’s also some value in normalizing this hesitancy; you’re not the only one.”

Study 2 of the project found that when participants imagined being the one on the receiving side of being contacted by an old friend, they were way more positive about it.”

She said that while social media can be a double-edged sword, making people feel more isolated compared to others’ seemingly perfect, friend-filled lives, it also offers some familiarity that can give opportunities to connect over what an old friend posts.

“We get all these reminders of what’s going on. We know their kid has graduated, we know their kid just lost their first tooth. We know they just got back from Bermuda. At least there’s this sense of familiarity even if we haven’t spoken to them for days, weeks, months, years.”

WHAT IS NEXT?

Aknin said that their research so far has opened up even more questions of inquiry for future studies for psychologists.

For example, they wonder if different personality types respond differently and if those who culled more friendships during COVID-19 restrictions are more inclined to reach out to old friends, among other possibilities

Read the full study titled “People are surprisingly hesitant to reach out to old friends,” in Nature Communications Psychology

PHOTO BY ADEM AY/UNSPLASH

The project included seven studies in which the pair of psychologists examined the perceptions of about 2,500 participants

BETWEEN SHIFTS THEATRE SOCIETY NEARS NAME CHANGE: TOP CHOICES REVEALED

Four creative options available for public voting

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief.com

It is down to four choices for Between Shifts Theatre Society’s new name

Based on earlier submitted suggestions, the community theatre society has a short list of names that the public can vote on.

The options are (in no particular order):

•Raintown Theatre

•Moonlight Theatre

•Black Bear Theatre

•Windswept Theatre

Kathryn Daniels, co-founder of the society said there were lots of great suggestions that were entered.

“It was really interesting to see their imagination and creativity And, I hope that everybody feels that they have an input into what was going on, that they have an input into this change for us.”

The award-winning Between Shifts just brought down the curtain on their 70th performance, Girl in the Goldfish Bowl, and will mark its 31st anniversary in May.

BY DAVID BUZZARD/FOR THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Shifts’ Kathryn Daniels.

Daniels said it is time for the name change as the moniker no longer suits what the society actually is

The name was originally a reference to how she and co-founder Mark McConchie were putting on shows in between their day jobs

“Between Shifts actually doesn’t really reflect who we are anymore because, for one thing, it

DARTS & DAFFODILS

SONGBOOKS FULL OF DAFFODILS to the Sea-to-Sky Singers for your amazing spring concert at Hilltop House. All our residents look so forward to our twice-yearly visits from your talented group. Thank you so much for always coming to brighten our day.

BIG, HUGE BUNCHES OF DAFFODILS to our amazing volunteers at Hilltop house, you do everything for our residents: musical entertainment, visiting us and cheering our day up, manicuring our fingernails, bingo, Friday night dinners, watering our plants, helping us on outings, leading hymn sings, woodworking in our shed and so much more!!!!

We really appreciate all you do for us, all day long, all day, year long. We are so lucky to have

doesn’t reflect the kids A lot of the children that we use, a lot of the teams that we use, they’re not worried about shift work—not just yet—[and] they make up a large portion of the people who take part in our theatre. So, we needed something that was a little bit more encompassing, a little bit more inclusive,” she said As for when the final name will be revealed,

you in our lives and we can’t thank you enough!

90 DAFFODILS to Genevieve, Quinn, Jamie and the rest of the restaurant staff at Squamish Valley Golf Course for adapting their schedules to help us celebrate a 90th birthday! You really made it a special celebration!

Gotsomethingnicetosayorsomeconstructive criticism?SendyourDarts&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.

Daniels said there is a lot that goes into name changes on the administrative side, such as changing the society’s registration, and insurance, not to mention all of its branded materials and website.

Locals should stay tuned to Between Shift Theatre’s social media for updates.

Daniels said for sure the new name will be in operation for 2025

SQUAMISH YOUTH COUNCIL AWARDS $10,000 TO BETWEEN SHIFTS THEATRE

At the 2024 Bear’s Den, the audience and youth council ultimately chose Between Shifts for the top prize

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

In came four finalists vying for the big prize, but only one could emerge victorious

The Squamish Youth Council’s 2024 Bear’s Den event, which awards a local non-profit $10,000 for programming aimed at youth, took place at Howe Sound Secondary on Wednesday, April 24 Four finalists came into the evening, which included:

• Between Shifts Theatre Society, for its Theatre Mentorship Initiative;

• Second Chance Cheekye Ranch, for its Into the Woods: An Equine-guided Journey Reconnecting Youth with Nature program;

• Squamish Volleyball Club, for its SVC Youth Leadership Program;

• Foundry, Pride Squamish and Sea to Sky Allies, for its Youth Social Dance/Event.

After each group presented their pitch, with very thorough budgets and enthusiasm, the youth council and audience got to vote for the winner by casting their ballots. Ultimately, Between Shifts Theatre Society won the hearts of the crowd and youth council.

The society’s pitch was to host a theatre training program for youth of all experience levels, with on- and off-stage practice

Participants would engage with trained staff, learn the ins and outs of theatre, and put on a full-blown show

The youth council had one more trick up its sleeve: It awarded the other three groups $1,000 to kickstart their events or programs

ServiceSupervisor and Guest Service Associates

This is the youth council’s second year taking on this initiative Last year, Howe Sound Secondary School won the prize for its Courtyard Connections Project. Th Sq mish Yo h Co cil is a District of to engage youth mmunity

leaders. The council meets approximately once per month throughout the school year, and youth can apply to be on it at the start of each school year

For more information about the youth council, visit squamish.ca/rec/syc-hub/ youth-council.

Eggs Benny englishmuffin,backbacon, poached egg,hollandaise

Scrambled Egg golden Valleyfreerange scrambled eggs, confit cherry tomatoes,chives

Baby Potatoes panfriedbabyyellowpotatoes rosemarysalt

Sausages maplepork+ chickenapple

FrenchToast

french loaf baguette,Maple Syrup, chantilly cream

Parfait

greekyogurt, granola, berrycompote

Platter melons, pineapple, berries,kiwi, oranges, grapefruit,gooseberries

Charcuterie Board sopprasetta, capicola,prosciutto, rosemaryrainforest crackers, fig jam, grainydijon,pickled veg

CheeseBoard

Imported +local cheeses, candied nuts,jams, crostinis

AssortedPastries

danishes, croissants,muffins

AssortedJuices

Tea+CoffeeStation

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Between Shifts Theatre Society members celebrate their win on April 24, at Eagle Eye Theatre.

DISTRICTOFSQUAMISH

Residential Recycling

We all know howgood recycling is forthe planet, but sometimes it can be achallenge.Takeour survey on Let’sTalk Squamish and let us know the challenges youfacewhen recycling so we canwork towardssolutions to reducecontamination within theresidential recyclingprogram.

To make glass recycling easier,help us identify potential locations foraneighbourhoodglass collection station forour new pilot program!

North YardsPark

The DistrictofSquamish is developing a neighbourhood parkatthe endofNo Name Road. Wewanttoknowhow youcurrently use thespace andwhatyou want to see in anew park

INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

Underway:

•UniversityReservoirs 2and 3

•WastewaterTreatmentPlantExpansion and Improvements

Upcoming work:

TheDistrict’spaving programunderway.

•April 29toMay 3:Judd Road from Government Road to Cottonwood Road

Work to upgrade and repair select watermains throughout Squamish willbegin May2024.

•May:Mamquam Road -East industrial area

•June:Tantalus Road near Starview Place

•July:Government Road /AxenRoad

•August:ThunderbirdRidge near Glacier View Drive

BUSINESSOPPORTUNITIES

•Mashiter Creek HazardAssessment -Request for Quotations

•Corridor Trail Lighting -Request forProposals

•Ditch Remediation along Highway99 -Request for Proposals

•Artificial Turf Field Replacement -Request for Proposals

•SecurityPatrolling forDistrictFacilities -Request forProposals

•Sewer CCTV Reporting &Rehabilitation ProgramRequest forProposals

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

SIGN UP FOR ENEWS

Signupfor the District’sweekly e-Newstoget importantupdates in your inboxevery Friday.

BRENNAN PARK UPGRADES UPDATE

WHAT’SHAPPENING IN RECREATION AND CULTURE

Pre/Postnatal Yoga

Suitable foralltrimesters, theseempowering classes will teach youvaluabletools to strengthen and prepareyour body forbirth.

Exploregentle movement, meditation, visualizations, mantra, pelvic floor work and deep relaxation techniques while connecting with other new mamas in anurturing and supportivespace.

Alllevels welcome.No previous yoga experience required

Thefirst phase of the Green and AccessibilityRetrofit Projectisunderway, starting with upgrades to the ice arena changerooms.The changeroomswill be closed to the public from April until end of August and will requireice users to arrive at the centre pre-dressed beforeusing the arena until end of May.

Upcoming impacts:

•Arena changerooms closed through approximately mid-August.

•Arena closed May31through approximately midAugust

•Arena washrooms will remain open.

•Minor parking impacts due to construction.

•Sitepreparation and foundational work forstaff administration area relocation to begin in the summer.

squamish.ca/futureBPRC

SQUAMISH ARTISTS TAKE ON THE CHALLENGE IN CBC’S SAND SCULPTING REALITY SHOW

Originally from Ukraine, local couple competes in CBC’s ‘Race Against the Tide,’ showcasing their sand sculpting skills against the clock and the tide

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

ASquamish couple originally from Ukraine is featured on CBC’s Race Against The Tide

The series pits sand sculptors against each other and incoming waves.

Andrei and Kateryna Kudrin, who immigrated to Squamish from Kharkiv, Ukraine, two years ago due to the Russian invasion, are both artists.

For their day jobs, Andrei works as an ice sculptor, while Kateryna is a house painter.

The couple qualified for the show’s first season while still living in Ukraine, but due to the pandemic and other factors, they didn’t get to compete on air until this fourth season of the series.

Race Against The Tide returned to CBC Gem on April 28

In the season premiere, viewers meet the 10 sculpting teams who arrive in the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick and complete their first challenge.

In the first episode, the pairs, who hail from various locations around the globe, must

create sand sculptures that showcase their teamwork

They have six hours to do it, as the waves of the tide lap ever closer to their creations.

The team that remains standing at the end of the series will be crowned Race Against the

Tide champions, take home the Golden Beach Bucket, and receive $10,000 cash

While the couple can’t reveal too much of what happens in the show—viewers have to tune in to see the drama unfold—they did share with The Squamish Chief that the

filming was done last August

They said the competition began very early in the morning to be timed with the lowest tide

The pair met in art college and have been sculpting together since. They have sculpted in festivals and competitions worldwide for about 25 years.

Andrei said that sand is just another medium through which they can produce art.

Asked how it feels to work on a piece of art that is then washed away from the tide, Andrei was philosophical.

“Every sculpture is washed away sooner or later,” he said, adding that they hope to make people happy with their sand sculptures.

The pair said they knew some of the other competitors from past competitions and that they got along well with all the fellow competitors.

“There was a very good atmosphere,” Andrei said. “They are very good people—very good artists.”

Canadian hip-hop artist Wes Williams, aka Maestro Fresh Wes, hosts the series

Sand sculpting world champion Karen Fralich and master sculptor Rusty Croft are the judges

You can stream the show on CBC Gem; go to the website, gem.cbc.ca/race-against-the-tide for more information

PHOTO COURTESY RACE AGAINST THE TIDE Squamish’s Andrei and Kateryna Kudrin

HERRING SPAWN SURVEY NEARING ITS WRAP-UP

Search for Slhawt’/Herring project monitors herring spawn each year in Howe Sound

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

The local herring spawn surveying is nearing its wrap-up, but once again, the program is learning more and more about herring behaviour each year The Squamish Chief took a tour on Friday, April 26, of some of the local spawning areas with Matthew Van Oostdam, the Search for Slhawt’/Herring project co-ordinator with the Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound Marine Stewardship Initiative (MSI).

The project, with further help from partners such as Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), Squamish Streamkeepers and others, conducts herring spawn surveys from roughly January to May each year.

In the last few years, the project has gained momentum, and Van Oostdam says they continue to establish what he called “baseline” data about where herring are spawning. He said he was careful not to compare data between years quite yet, as he and the volunteers have all gotten more knowledgeable about how to find herring spawn Van Oostdam estimated there have been about 30 committed volunteers recently

“Our success has a lot to do with those people,” he said

This year’s survey saw the first spawn near the Squamish Terminals, and Oceanfront Squamish in mid-February, and then more eggs popped up elsewhere on the south shores of Squamish, such as Cattermole Slough, Mamquam Blind Channel and the Squamish Estuary.

Another recent spawning event occurred at

Foulger Creek, on the west side of Howe Sound, just a couple of kilometres south of the Woodfibre LNG site

At Foulger Creek, cedar boughs, which garner herring eggs, were submerged near the shoreline, and marked by buoys. On April 26, a small patch of live eggs remained after lifting the submerged cedar. Elsewhere at the

creek, there were many signs of hatched and also eggs that didn’t make it Nearby, at least 20 sea lions were baiting a school of anchovies.

A little north of Foulger Creek, more documented herring spawning occurred just recently.

Similar to last year, there will be a report

released from MSI about the 2024 survey year Van Oostdam says they are also planning a community event around the report’s release to talk about what they learned.

For more information on the project, including information from previous years, visit howesoundguide.ca.

PHOTOS BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Left to right: Buoys mark submerged cedar boughs; herring eggs attached to rockweed

PHOTOS BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Left to right: A school of anchovies were being baited by a group of sea lions; more herring eggs attached to cedar.

BEE WILD PARADISE VALLEY APIARY OFFERING PUBLIC TOURS

Get to know AnnaMarie Rutishauser whose apiary boasts four hives for the season with upwards of 60,000 bees per hive

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Astart-up apiary in Paradise Valley is now offering a chance to view the busy bees up close and personal Bee Wild Paradise Valley recently started public tours of the homegrown apiary, which is a term for keeping beehives and honey bees. Owner and apiarist, AnnaMarie Rutishauser, said she currently maintains four beehives, but has the supplies to build to 10.

By July, Rutishauser said upwards of 60,000 bees may occupy each hive with more into August.

“When friends and family would visit … they would just love seeing the bees and learning about the bees, and I just wanted to share that with our community,” Rutishauser said about starting the tours.

“I thought a lot of people would be interested in seeing those interactions between the bees themselves and how we as humans can help.”

On Saturdays, interested customers can

Baha’i Faith

Faithand Family

SQUAMISH BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY

The InternationalDay of Families wasestablished by the UnitedNations andcelebratedeach Maytohighlight thecriticalrolefamilies play in oursociety.How does faithinfluencefamily life andconsequently its contributiontosociety?

The Baha’iWritingsplace greatemphasisonthe nobilityofhuman beings andthe importance of each person acquiringthe highestqualities in order toserve hisorher best interest,aswell asthose of humanity

The family unit is seenasthe nucleusofhuman society—a space withinwhich praiseworthy morals and capacities essential tothe bettermentofsociety aretobedeveloped.Itrecognizes thatthe habitsand patterns of conduct nurtured withinthe family arecarried into the workplace, into thelocal community, into the socialand political lifeofthe country,and into the arena of internationalrelations

Bahá’ís strive, therefore, tocontinually strengthenthe spiritual ties that bind together the family.A dynamic family lifeisseenasone thatacknowledgesthe equalityofthe sexes, cultivatesa loving and respectfulrelationshipbetween parentsand children, andpromotes theprinciplesofconsultationand harmony in decision-making

Bahá’ífamilies strive to nurturelove forall people, tolerance of differences, an acutesense of justice, andempathy forothers. Great efforts aremade to raisechildrenwho understand the onenessofhumanity and so viewevery soul, irrespectiveofreligion, ethnicity, or any other affiliation,asa fellowhuman being, and togiveexpressiontoBahá’u’lláh’sinvocationto regardone another as “thefruitsofone tree, and theleavesofone branch.” www.squamishbahais.org

have an opportunity to view the apiary, by booking online

It is about $25 per person, said Rutishauser, and free for children five and under.

“During the tours, we talk about the different stages of bee development, and we observe inside the hive So getting that hands-on, visual, tactile, sensory experience, where you’re smelling the honey and you’re feeling the vibrations of bees,” she said For Rutishauser, starting the apiary was a bit serendipitous.

PLEASING BEES

“I started digging into permaculture and learning about the interactions between plants and animals and humans and how we can mutually benefit each other,” she said.

“One of the plants I planted was yellow clover and the bees were all over that.”

After seeing that, she thought, “Let’s see how honeybees work in our garden.”

In the beginning, Rutishauser said that she honestly knew nothing about beekeeping

“I was in over my head pretty quick,” she said with a laugh. “Thankfully, Gerald [Cote], my dance instructor, was a professional beekeeper once upon a time in Alberta, and he came in and showed me everything.”

“From there, it just took off.”

Now, a few years later, Rutishauser is producing and selling honey alongside the tours, which, when it’s ready, will be found at the Squamish Farmers’ Market, plus other markets in the Lower Mainland

“Last year, our honey production just went through the roof,” she said, adding they harvested about 550 pounds or 250 kilograms of honey with only two hives.

She said the success was largely due to the one-on-one coaching she got from Cote

With the addition of two more hives and the supplies for more, she hopes they can increase honey production and create more products, such as infusing flavours into honey and candles. Rutishauser said the main honey harvesting will be between July and August. If interested in learning more about the apiary, or to book a tour, visit beewildparadisevalley.ca.

‘Squamish business beat’ is a new series that arose from feedback from locals who wanted to see more business-related news With this beat, we cover brand-new, independent business openings and closings, among other business-related topics, as our time and resources allow. To be considered for this series, please email news@squamishchief.com

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF AnnaMarie Rutishauser with her bee hive

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EDITOR

JENNIFERTHUNCHER jthuncher@ squamishchief.com follow @thuncher

REPORTER ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@ squamishchief.com

SALESMANAGER CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com

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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

EDITORIAL

ALLA’BARK’

Often, thefiner detailscan make abig differenceinlife.

Many of us in Squamish arepet—especially dog—parents; many also travel to Vancouver Island andthe Sunshine Coast(heck,sometimes it seems like half of us have or will be moving to one of theselocales!).

Thus,the long-overduemovebyBCFerries to expand wherepetscan roam on some ferriesisa pawsitively positive one.

Last week,BCFerries barked (get it!) that it was openinguplargeroutdoor petareas on theupper decksofvessels travelling on theHorseshoe Bayto DepartureBay andHorseshoe BaytoLangdale routes.

This brings to sixthe vesselsthathaveexpanded petareas.

Theferry parks(forlackofabetter term)are about thesizeof anew Squamish condoand have water, dogbagsand seatingareas.

This is much more humane forour furryfamily membersand less stressfulfor petmomsand dads.

Anyonewho hastried to keep anervous dogor catquiet andcomfortable whilestuck belowdeck in avehicle or whohas amused them in theformer lowertinypet areasknows this is alosingpropositionfor allinvolved.

Nottomention thestresspetsendurebeing belowdeckwhencar alarmafter caralarm screamsout atunelesssong.

Lettingpetsclimb to theouter decks, especially on a beautifulsummerday,can only make the voyage nicerfor everyone.

Nottomention taking aslightsting outofthe approximately$100one-way ticket pricetosail (witha vehicle).

Clearly, thecompany knowsthisissmart business.

Thenewsrelease states that thenumberof passengers travelling on ferries with pets nearly doubled between2018and 2023,from5.5%to 9.9%.

In itscustomerpolling,BCFerries also found that an averageof92.5%ofrespondents favoured expandingthe petareas to theouter decks.

No doubt, some furparents have avoidedtaking their poochonboard,given theformerrestraints.

“Our customershavetoldusthattheir pets need abetterway to travel andwe’ve takensteps to make that areality.Thisisgreat news for customerspreparing to travel with pets in thebusy spring andsummerseasons,” said MelanieLucia, vice-president of customer experience at BC Ferries,inanewsrelease.

Therelease states that thecompany is planning on furtherexpanding itspet-friendlyareas.

TIME TO SCOOPOUR POOP IN THE SPEARHEAD?

On thefinal weekendofoperation of BlackcombMountain, Ijoinedfourfriends fora laparound theSpearhead Traverse.No cushyKeesand Claire Hut, no massivepacks ladenedwithmulti-day campingequipment and supplies.Justour day-trip gear with enough food andwater to last the35-kilometreslogaroundthe glaciers

Thepopularityisn’t allabad thing. It’s greatto seebackcountry skiers responsiblyventuring this deep.Prettymuchevery groupweencountered seemed to have theirwitsabout them andwere equipped with theright gear to be travelling on such remote glaciers (namelytravellingwith harnessesonwithcrevasse rescue gear at the ready).The downside wasskiingslopesalong the traverse that looked like resort slackcountry lines, butifyou’retouring theSpearhead in aday, you’re notreallyout here just forthe skiing.It’smore aboutgetting into themountains youdon’t getto seeevery dayfromthe resort lifts.

Butthere’s anotherdownsidetosomanypeople travelling theSpearhead Traverse:poop.

Reproduction of anymaterial containedinthispublicationis expresslyforbiddenwithoutthe prior writtenconsent of thepublisher. SPEARHEAD: Continuedon13

Buttoensurethathappens,let’s hope dog owners keep Fido andFifiincheck,onaleash,and scoopthe poop—unlikesomeofthe behaviouron Squamishstreets andtrailsoflate.

We allknewitwould be abusyday in the Spearhead. It wasaSaturdayand we were in the midstofsunny Aprilweather.Blackcomb—and arguablymoreimportantly,its lift accesstothe Spearhead—wasinits finaldays. Even with allthese contributingfactors,Inever expected to find this many people,thisdeep, in theSpearhead Range. Normally,onceyou getpast thePattison-Trorey col, theski-touring traffic dropsoff dramatically.Not this day. Thereseemed tobemorepeopleattemptingthe Spearhead Traverse than daytrippersinthe Blackcomb backcountry. Onecouplewemet alongthe way hadcampedovernight on theedgeofRipsaw Glacierand hadseen13groupscomebyjustthat morning.

Tento15years agowhenbackcountry skiing was starting to getmorepopular,the stewards of the Whistler backcountryknewthere wasgoing to come atimewhenthe amount of excrement droppedonthose glaciers wasgoing to cause issues.Managinghuman wastewas actually abig part of theimpetus forthe SpearheadHutsproject, though notone that’s nearly as compelling to advertiseascomfortable backcountrylodging. When ourgroup circledaroundIagoPeak, we sawatleast four campsitesonDiavolo Glacier. I couldn’t countthe number of skiers,but judgingby thesizeofthe camps, I’destimatebetween 16 and 20 people spentmultiplenightsthere.The shit is starting to addup.

Itookalookathow otherpopular North

VINCESHULEY THEOUTSIDER

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)

SPEARHEAD›: Continued from 12

American glacier parks handle human waste. Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska—the access to the continent’s highest peak, Denali—is a mountaineering destination for climbers from all over the world.

Expeditions can take as long as three weeks, with dozens of climbers winter camping at the various camps. Between 1951 and 2012, climbers have deposited at least 70 metric tonnes of human waste in the Kahiltna Glacier.

The “pack-in-pack-out” policy for trash began in the late 1970s in Denali, but in the ’80s many climbers were getting sick due to contamination of the snow around the camps. It’s now mandated for all climbers to take care of their own poop with designated Clean Mountain Cans (CMC), which are light and sealable receptacles issued to climbing teams by the park rangers. Climbers are allowed to chuck their biodegradable-bagged loads into one

designated (read: quite deep) crevasse near camp at 4,267 metres, but otherwise they have to port their poo around the mountain The CMC program has been very successful in reducing the human-waste pollution in Denali, especially around the high-altitude camps.

The Spearhead Traverse is one of the most popular multi-day ski-touring routes in North America, and it’s only getting busier The vermiculture (worm) compost toilets at Kees and Claire Hut are doing a great job at managing the poop from the Fitzsimmon Range (Whistler) side of the traverse, and the next hut planned by Mount Macbeth will likely alleviate some of the mid-route calls of nature But the remaining Spearhead Huts are still a few years from completion, leaving skiers with little choice when they need to take a dump And winter camping is always going to be a thing along the Spearhead, as the Diavolo Glacier tent city demonstrated. This spot is at least

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

GOOD NEIGHBOURS?

I live in a neighbourhood, and I have neighbours

Like you, I imagine you have a perception of what is a good neighbour and what makes a bad neighbour.

For me, a bad neighbour is one who uses my tools and returns them dirty or broken They don’t pick up after their dog Their kids leave their bikes and junk all over the neighbourhood. When it comes to supporting the flotel and WLNG, I think to myself, are these good neighbours?

A good neighbour to me is not one that arrives with promises but one that actually shows they care, pitches in, and actually tries to improve what they use

From what I can see, this has not been the case.

For the past few months, WLNG has been helping itself to the only boat ramp in town They have knocked over the rails and, to make matters worse, all but destroyed the gravel side. They apparently have made zero effort to fix or remedy the situation. This is not a good neighbour.

LETTERS POLICY

This is all before they even have all their permits.

Can you imagine how badly they will treat the town once they have them all?

You would have thought WLNG would have made an effort to arrive at last week’s [public hearing] meeting with its best foot forward but nope, not even close.

Councillors Chris Pettingill and Lauren Greenlaw attempted to nail down how to resolve grievances of this type but were met with very little information. If the town actually plans to give this company—that clearly could not care less about Squamish—the floatel permit, I would really hope it is something like 18 months with the option to renew again for another 18 months Giving the full permit with so few restrictions or means of holding accountability seems very risky. So far, these are just terrible neighbours Mac McDell Squamish

REVIEW. RETHINK. REFUSE

I feel surprised to learn that some First Nations and Squamish councillors

two hours of travel from the nearest outhouse, even when all three Spearhead Huts are complete. If you own a dog or have raised a child, you’ve come to terms with handling poo as part of your day. You bag it, carry it to the nearest receptacle and get on with life Special-gasimpervious, double-walled waste bags specific for wilderness situations are available for a few bucks at backcountry stores

Hopefully, the experienced Spearhead travellers (such as guides) are setting the example. If you do need to go and aren’t equipped with backcountry poo bags, make sure to walk far from regular camps or lunch spots and make sure to burn your toilet paper.

Shit’s getting real on the Spearhead. Let’s normalize carrying it around Vince Shuley tries his best to go before he leaves the house. For questions, comments or suggestions for The Outsider, email vince. shuley@gmail.com or Instagram @ whis_vince.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Will you be more inclined to take your pet on the ferry with the new spaces available?

Have your say at squamishchief.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

How comfortable do you feel educating strangers in the backcountry?

MOST READ STORY

Letter: Hikers meet unexpected barrier on Squamish Estuary Trail—No crossing allowed

believe Big Oil promises and agreements.

It seems they haven’t heard about or choose to ignore the issue of thousands of abandoned oil wells in Alberta, left for taxpayers to clean up and pay for. Big Oil has no difficulty in holding out its hands for billions in subsidies, only to disappear at the slightest hint of being accountable for its business disasters when there is a mess to clean up Bankruptcy is not a dirty word in these corporate circles.

I see that the only goal of Big Oil is to maximize its profits, whatever the cost to others or the environment I now ask Squamish city council with all my heart to say no We are not separate from ecosystems that support us with clean air, clean water, and clean land Review Rethink. Refuse a project that will add more climate chaos and possibly severe health issues to people and a planet currently on a path to destruction.

Onni Milne

Vancouver

The Squamish Chief welcomes letters to the editor of up to 400 words. Letters should be exclusive to this publication and are meant to respond to a local story in The Squamish Chief or raise an issue happening in town Please include your name, neighbourhood and daytime phone number The deadline is 5 p.m. Monday to be considered for Thursday’s edition. Full names and neighbourhood will be published with the letter The publisher reserves the right to refuse and edit letters for length and clarity or to address legal concerns Email letters to: editor@squamishchief.com.

TOP TIKTOK OF THE WEEK

This week, reporter Andrew Hughes went out on Howe Sound to find herring. Find this video and many others on our TikTok account. Search for @squamishchief

foodbeat

TheBackyardtobuildupon‘greatfoundation,’ saysnewowner

Pete Moonen and Blake Mahovic recently purchased the Valleycliffe pub

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

On a surprisingly warm day, the Valleycliffe pub is buzzing with contractors just a couple of weeks since a change in ownership. Co-owner and community manager, Blake Mahovic, is contemplating how to arrange one side of the roomy restaurant while the general manager and other co-owner, Pete Moonen, is talking with a few of the contractors When the two sit down to talk with The Squamish Chief, Moonen describes how coincidental the new endeavour came about, as the previous owner just happened to stop and chat with Moonen where he previously worked in Horseshoe Bay.

But, Moonen said it had long been a dream to own a bar and was equally great to find a home for the Axemen Rugby Club, where he and Mahovic met. “It’s just kind of like a mix of things,” Moonen said about getting into ownership “Like being close to home, always wanting to own my own bar and wanting a home for the Axemen.”

milar vein, Mahovic growing up in northern England, the pub was where the community went for everything.

“It’s a place where everyone goes, and it’s where everyone has their rthdays, funerals, everything in n,” he said.

Ultimately, creating that community feel is where they want to the business

“We’re looking to build on the great foundation that was built here and we want to just add on that,” said Moonen.

Currently, part of the build includes diversifying their menu

Moonen listed a number of new items already on the revised menu, such as barbecue chicken pizza, tuna burger, pulled pork sandwich, churros, and others He also said they aim to add some lighter items like a recent favourite dragon boat tuna

aim family and they to take a more active role the community markets that Smoke Bluff Coffee has been throwing.

“It’s like a seared ahi tuna on a crispy wonton,” Moonen explained. “Sometimes people just finished up their hike [and] maybe they want something a little bit lighter.”

“We’re looking to build on the great foundation that was built here and we want to just add on that.”

en also said they aim to add other an, vegetarian, and gluten-free options to accommodate a wider range of dietary needs.

As members of the Axemen, Moonen and Mahovic said there will certainly be some get-togethers between competitors after games.

Yet, Mahovic also said it was important to broaden the customer base by extending operating hours and introducing engaging ways to ensure The Backyard is a space for

everyone For example, he said they m to start a family night on Mondays they plan to take a more active role in mmunity markets that Smoke Bluff has been throwing just going to double down on that of being a neighbourhood pub,” he

“W ust id being neighbourhood pub,” he said

And, of course, said are open to community members

“If they have want to run,” he if

course, Mahovic said they are always ideas from community members. ve something that they want to said, “we would love to see if we can make some stuff work.”

As the two reflected, they said it almost felt like destiny to own a pub called The Backyard because of the name’s ties to a song that the Axemen sing after games.

As Mahovic explained further, rugby clubs often have songs or chants the team sings after games. For the Axemen, he said they wanted something “ridiculous but really fun.” So, they decided the club would sing Milkshake by Kelis.

In a sort of ode to the Axemen, Mahovic said, they’ll be offering milkshakes on Mondays.

“It was kind of prophetic that the bar was called The Backyard,” said Moonen

“Because the milkshakes bring the boys to the yard,” they said in unison.

Check out more on The Backyard’s Instagram or stop by and say hello.

The Food Beat is a new series from The Squamish Chief newsroom focusing on local restaurants, cafés and eateries that are newly opened or have something newsworthy about them If you think your business fits that bill and would like to be considered for this series, reach out to news@squamishchief.com

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U15 SOFTBALL TEAM KICKS OFF PRE-SEASON WITH TOURNAMENT

Howe Sound Chiefs kick off at Icebreakers Tournament in Port Coquitlam

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

The local Squamish girls’ U15 fastpitch softball team started their pre-season with a Lower Mainland tournament

The Howe Sound Chiefs played at the April 19 to 21 Icebreakers Tournament in Port Coquitlam.

On Saturday, April 20, the team earned back-to-back wins over the Abbotsford Bombers and Port Coquitlam U15C, according to head coach Mark Smith.

“Pitcher Zoey Zavalia pitched her first natural strikeout in her first start against another city. Catcher Coral Todd was a stone wall behind the plate combining for two outs on steals to home plate. Lefty Zeffe Hatten crushed a nasty chopper past the second baseman bringing in two RBIs,” wrote Smith in an email to The Squamish Chief.

Smith said the infield combined for three double plays and also converted the “coveted” triple play in the third inning of the second game

On Sunday, April 21, Smith said the team struggled against the Abbotsford pitcher. Yet, he said the defence remained stout throughout the game, with pitcher Leah Smith going three up, three down in the first inning with two strikeouts as well as some other spectacular plays by Lyla Dow, Prestley Mitchell and Sela

Perdue Unfortunately, in the end, the team dropped the game to Abbotsford

Smith described the second game on the day against the Langley Stellar Jays as “a nail-biter,” but the team ultimately lost the close match.

“First baseman Alexis Hutton was an absolute

menace recording five outs at first base and leading the team in runs home. Right fielder Mylie Tourand stole home in the third inning, sliding just under a throw and scoring,” wrote Smith.

Smith said the team also earned two double plays during the game, but it wasn’t quite enough to overcome Langley.

Baseball and softball season in Squamish is gearing up for another great season Some local information on teams and schedules can be found at howesoundminorball.ca.

The Howe Sound Chiefs were at the Icebreakers Tournament in Port Coquitlam April 19 to 21

SIX SEA TO SKY RIDERS WIN 2024 SQUAMISH ENDURO

Melamed, Boucher, Ho, Quist, Wells and Beaton triumph in their respective divisions

DAVID

SONG

Pique Newsmagazine

Locals defended home turf well at this year’s Squamish Enduro, with Jesse Melamed, Lily Boucher, Wei Tien Ho, Mateo Quist, Ruby Wells and Rebecca Beaton seizing victory in their respective age and gender categories

Melamed overcame some adversity to reach the line in 16 minutes and 23.351 seconds, dethroning previous champ Rhys Verner who finished second (16:34.802). Third went to Melamed’s Canyon CLLCTV teammate Jack Menzies (16:53.953).

“So stoked with the level of competition we have here at home,” said Melamed on his Instagram account. “The crash was at the bottom of the longest and roughest stage: six minutes of hectic riding and multiple climbs and I was giving it everything. I scared myself more than a few times. Cleaned it up and ended up edging ahead for the win. The feelings are there ... can’t wait for the big show in a few weeks.”

Boucher claimed her U21 crown with the second-fastest time among all ladies (21:17.73) as fellow Squamolian Elly Hoskin grabbed

silver (21:35.79) and Geza Rodgers received bronze (21:39.18)

“Felt good to get back to some enduro this weekend!” Boucher wrote on social media.

“The Squamish Enduro put on a good one, as always Thanks to everyone who came out and brought all the good vibes. Racing with friends at home is pretty special.”

Ho won the men’s U21 race (17:52.57) ahead of Noah Rubuliak (18:00.43) and Jacob Quist (18:10.55) in that order.

Gold in the boys’ U17 went to Mateo Quist (18:05.71) who bested Nolan Weiss (18:14.03) and Nash Jamieson (19:10.74)

Wells prevailed in a two-athlete race for the girls’ U17 title (22:59.11), while Beaton took the U21 by default (26:43.41) after Sianna Roka failed to register a result

’IT’S JUST MY TIME’

Miranda Miller hasn’t participated in the Squamish Enduro since 2014. The veteran still has gas left in the tank, as evidenced by her two medals from Crankworx Whistler (enduro silver and downhill bronze) last July. She couldn’t stop Emmy Lan of Comox from winning the women’s pro event (20:56.76), but managed to lock down the runner-up position with a respectable time (21:27.942).

Trouble in the early going prevented Andréane Lanthier Nadeau from defending her 2023 title. Fortunately, she rallied with wins in stage 3 and 4 to preserve a third-place outing (21:29.403).

“Had a strange feeling all week that

The crash was at the bottom of the longest and roughest stage: six minutes of hectic riding and multiple climbs and I was giving it everything.

JESSE MELAMED

something bad was going to happen the first time I had this feeling I broke my leg, the second time, my arm. But I survived and nothing bad happened,” mused Miller on Instagram. “Tried to play it safe, but not go too slow or stare at my front wheel. Wrapped up the day in second but got smoked again by the kids, which is fine. It’s just my time and also confirms my life choices.

“Last time I raced the Squamish Enduro was 10 years ago ... and it’s so impressive to see how the event has grown! Incredible work and thank you for having me.”

Adds Lanthier Nadeau: “Some really good riding and some decently bad riding from me in Squamish. Still stoked and proud of where I’m at! Grateful to iron out the kinks before shipping off to Europe.”

FILE PHOTO BY DUNCAN PHILPOTT/ENDURO WORLD SERIES Jesse Melamed.

Hazel Ainscough

With greatsadness we announce thepassing of ourmom, Hazel Ainscough of Squamish,BC. After along battle with cancer Hazelpassed away peacefully at the ageof82attended by her children at the Squamish Hospice on Sunday April 21,2024.

Hazel was born on January23, 1942 in Horwich, England. She was thedaughter of the late Albert and May(Stephens) Bromilow.

Hazel will be greatly missed by her two daughters, VickiGoodwin (Jonny), WendyTower (Dan) bothof Squamish andone son, Michael Ainscough (Tamara)ofRexton NB, eight grandchildren andthree greatgrandchildren. Hazelisalso survived by twoSisters, Audrey Salt (Chetwynd, BC)and Lynn Williams (Bolton, UK) Hazel was predeceased by her husband Bill, andbothher parents and onesister Irene Howarth.

Oursincere thanks to allthe Dr’s&nursesatSquamish VCH Community Home Health Care and theSquamish Hospice for all the wonderful care given to our mom and to all the friends that came to visit withher during her stay at Hospice.

Afuneral service will be held on SaturdayMay 4, 2024 at 3:00 pm, Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’sWitnesses, 1869 Harris Road, Squamish, BC.

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HYDROVAC OPERATOR -Valid Class 1orClass 3with air brakesrequired. Manual transmission. 2years experience preferred. $32-$37per hour

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, Squamish -Minimum 5years or 5,000 hours operating experience onexcavator.Full-time,Monday –Friday.$33-$42 per hour

HEAVY DUTY EQUIPMENT MECHANIC, Whistler– RedSealCertified, Commercial Truck & Transport, Transport Trailer required. CVSEInspector’sticket, Air Conditioning ticket, Class 1or3with air brakes preferred. Toolbox available for rent. $37.70-$39.80per hour

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE SPECIALIST– Keeneye for detail and proficiency in data entry and management required. Completion of accounting courses preferred.$26-$35 perhour

ACCOUNTANT – Preparefinancial information,statements, reportsand develop internal control procedures.CPA or working towardsdesignation preferred.$32-$42 per hour

ACCOUNTING &PAYROLL SPECIALIST, Whistler –CPA,PCP or working towards certification preferred. Full-time, Monday –Friday.$27-$36 per hour

instagram.com/coastalmountainexcavations

Therole includessome eveningand weekend coverage

Thesuccessful candidateshouldbeathomecovering District council meetings, whichare weekly, interviewing business owners, jumping in aboattophotograph local herring, or heading out to interview someone in the Squamish Valley.

Therole also involvesproducing socialmedia content, such as regularvideos. Youhaveadegree in journalism,are passionate about community news—in print and online

Youhavegreat ethics,are self-motivated and efficient, with acurious, critical mind and anacuteattention to detail.

Youhaveexperience working in anewsroom and adhering to strict deadlines. Other relevant skills include newspaper layout,copy editing, photography, and video editing.

Ideally, youhaveexperience coveringprovincial courtdecisions

Located in thebustling outdoor-obsessedcommunity of Squamish, British Columbia, TheSquamish Chief is an award-winning publication and the paper of recordfor the community.

To apply for this position, sendyourresume, threeclippings, or otherrelevant materials,aswellasashort coverletter aboutwhy youwanttocover community news inSquamish, by May7, 2024,to: Jennifer Thuncher at jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Compensation is commensuratewithskills and experience ($40,000 -$48,000, andabenefit package).

March 21-April 19

ARIES

Take time to rest to regain your energy and enthusiasm You’ll follow your intuition to discover a new spiritual path, pushing you to adopt a more exciting lifestyle Sept 23-Oct. 22

TAURUS

April 20-May 20

Your vivid imagination could lead you to undertake a successful artistic project. Make an effort to arrange a festive get-together with your friends It will be well worth it Be mindful of distractions at work Oct 23-Nov. 21

GEMINI

May 21-June 20

You’ll be tasked with organizing a social event or an important meeting as part of your job. You’ll overcome your shyness and discover your more extroverted side to excel in this role

CANCER

June 21-July 22

HOW TO PLAY:

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Each 3 x 3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3 x 3 box.

July 23-Aug. 22

Nov. 22-Dec. 21

You’ll be given new and stimulating responsibilities at work These tasks will allow you to discover and develop skills you didn’t know you had, leading to a raise in the coming weeks. Dec. 22-Jan. 19

LEO

You’ll be given the opportunity to embark on a surprising adventure, such as a spiritual journey This experience will broaden your horizons and guide your personal and professional development. It could also reveal itself through a sporting activity.

VIRGO

Aug. 23-Sept. 22

YOUR PLACE OF

Jan. 20-Feb 18

You’ll be filled with a range of emotions that will lead you to a significant transformation. Consider making drastic changes, such as moving to a new home, exploring new horizons or changing jobs. Feb. 19-March 20

TheParish of St.John theDivine, 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

LIBRA

You’ll be faced with an agonizing choice Think carefully before deciding. Rushing into a decision you have to reconsider is a waste of time Balance is the key. Know how to weigh the pros and cons

SCORPIO

You’ll have a lot of work to do this week You could be entrusted with a confidential file with a significant financial payoff You could also consider starting your own business, which will be very rewarding.

SAGITTARIUS

You may experience love at first sight and connect with a potential soulmate. You’ll have an instant connection. However, family considerations could complicate things before fully investing in the relationship

CAPRICORN

Watch what you say, especially around certain people who can’t hold their tongues You’re planning a move and will spend time decorating to personalize your new space

AQUARIUS

Someone may tell you a confusing secret You’ll wonder whether revealing it to the people involved would be the right thing to do You may need to re-evaluate your circle of friends, especially if debt or betrayal are involved

PISCES

Getting a promotion could solve some of your financial problems Having a conversation with your boss could lead to this advancement, paving the way for a more promising future. Talking to your better half ensures you’re both getting what you want from the relationship

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