The bodies of three missing climbers found
THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024
How to watch the Squamish Open Annual Regatta
COUNCIL DELAYS DECISION ON FORTISBC TUP ‘LODGE’ PERMIT OVER LOCATION CONCERNS
Council votes to bring the workers’ accommodation TUP back to a future public hearing
INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY iLemayConway@squamishchief.com
The District of Squamish council remains undecided about FortisBC’s temporary use permit, which would allow the establishment of a workers’ accommodation lodge near the new Capilano University campus.
Concerns over the proposed facility’s close proximity to the university campus and dormitories sparked significant conversations about safety at the committee of the whole meeting on July 2.
Councillors voted unanimously to bring the workers’ accommodation TUP back to a second committee of the whole meeting after more information is gathered. They also want to hold a public hearing on the matter in the near future
Mayor Armand Hurford expressed concern that the lodge that would house Eagle Mountain Pipeline workers would be only a” 100-metre walk” from the campus.
PHOTO BY GERALD WOLFE
RIDE WITH A VIEW: A paraglider on a sunset flight after launching off the First Peak of the Stawamus Chief on Saturday
TUP: Continued from 1
While discussing the TUP application report, Hurford said he found the map of the proposed site provided in the documents “misrepresents” the lodge as being “removed from the community” but felt this wasn’t accurate
“It sort of cuts off the neighbourhood that’s 100 metres away which is surrounding CapU,” Hurford said.
“CapU has had representatives at meetings I’ve been at on adjacent matters…and I’ve heard them describe their student population as a vulnerable population.”
Counc. Lauren Greenlaw echoed Hurford’s concerns to say she too was “very much uneasy” about the proposed location of the temporary workers accommodation in relation to student safety.
Hurford queried if the council had the ability to request that foot or bike access be mitigated to prevent workers from accessing the campus area Council staff said they would pass the information on to FortisBC
If approved, the workers accommodation would contain 576 beds, with the option to add 36 more as well as 325 parking stalls and a bus/ shuttle staging area for about eight buses.
The lodge—which is set to be operational in 2025 would house up to 400 workers, with a peak of 600 workers during the summer period
While the location of the lodge was high on the list of concerns for council members, a spokesperson for CapU told the Squamish Chief they did not share the same sentiments.
“We met with FortisBC in May and based on that conversation, a risk assessment, and appropriate measures in place, we don’t have ongoing concerns for CapU students or employees on campus,” the CapU spokesperson said
OTHER CONCERNS
Coun. Chris Pettingill noted FortisBC had pushed ahead with planning the lodge without a gender, cultural and safety plan in place. Staff confirmed this to be true but added the plan
was not required until closer to occupancy.
While there were no FortisBC representatives at the meeting a spokesperson for the company told The Squamish Chief that their amended Environmental Assessment Certificate for the project requires them to have a Gender and Cultural Safety Plan in place before the Lodge is operational.
“Pending TUP approval, this will be developed in consultation with Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw, the District of Squamish and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation,” the spokesperson said
YARD TUP
The second TUP submitted by FortisBC, for a construction laydown yard to the northeast of the Valleycliffe neighborhood, also received a negative response from council members, who voiced worries it could impact the construction and completion of the highly anticipated Squamish Canyon
“The largest conflict here is the impact it has on surrounding businesses,” Coun Andrew Hamilton said.
“The Squamish Canyon is a $20 million investment in a long-term ecotourism business within our community and is under construction right now. Their construction timeline is going to be significantly affected by the addition of this project, and the opening of that business will be significantly impacted,” he said.
“I don’t see how this is an appropriate land use because we will have a significant amount of traffic going back and forth through a business that relies on a peaceful environment for tourists to enjoy.”
The associated Woodfibre LNG floatel temporary use permit application was subject to similar concerns, but ultimately saw the provincial government sidestep the council, demanding the company house the workers onboard, before a TUP was in place.
It was said at the council meeting that FortisBC requires their building permits for the working accommodation to be approved
I don’t see how this is an appropriate land use because we will have a significant amount of traffic going back and forth through a business that relies on a peaceful environment for tourists to enjoy.
COUN. ANDREW HAMILTON
by Nov. 15, however council staff could not confirm whether this would be achievable or not.
“To have the Lodge fully operational by June 2025, in advance of our July and August peak construction periods, FortisBC informed the District of Squamish of the need to receive TUP approval by September 3, 2024,” a FortisBC spokesperson told the Chief
“FortisBC also informed the District that building permits would be required by Nov. 15, 2024. It is unclear whether the District of Squamish will meet those timelines.
“If those timelines cannot be met, or if the TUPs, or subsequent building permits are not approved on time, we would miss the peak summer 2025 construction season making the Lodge no longer a feasible option.”
The spokesperson said if this were to occur, FortisBC would be required to find “alternative accommodation” for workers for the duration of the project.
“In that case, we would continue to seek to
minimize our presence in Squamish, where possible, in response to feedback,” they said. Council voted in favour of not having a public hearing for the construction laydown yard TUP.
SQUAMISH CANYON
As for those at the helm of Squamish Canyon, the status quo is better than what would happen with the workers’ lodge or the yard.
“The industrial laydown yard would have some negative effects on the Squamish Canyon, but more so on the residential area it backs onto and the overall recreational experience of the area,” said Robin Sherry, founder and project lead of the Canyon, in an email to The Squamish Chief.
“The largest impact on the Squamish Canyon would be the works camp, which would be accessed up Powerhouse Springs Road Access for this camp would cut through the middle of the attraction and all the construction equipment, their supply trucks and worker traffic through the center of our nature-based educational boardwalk experience. This approach does not work for public safety, the development of our attraction and the increasing recreational use in the area.”
He added that he worries that when the attraction is operational, the conflict between recreational pedestrian/tourism traffic and FortisBC heavy equipment/worker vehicle movements will increase substantially.
Sherry said that the contingency plan that is already happening with FortisBC—a combination of local accomodation and out of town—is a better option than Oking the TUP for the yard and workers’ lodge.
“This approach makes the most sense for us, the current recreational users of the area and the residents of Valleycliffe,” he said.
“Ideally, it would have been great to see FortisBC move to shift work with two weeks in two weeks out, going home on their days off and legacy housing for the town for them to stay in But they chose not to do this.”
BODIES OF MOUNTAINEERS RECOVERED IN GARIBALDI PARK
A family member reported the trio missing on May 31
ALANNA KELLY Glacier Media
Three mountaineers who went missing in Garibaldi Provincial Park at the end of May have been found dead.
Sea to Sky RCMP says the three bodies were recovered in the area of Atwell Peak on July 8. B.J. Chute, manager of Squamish Search and Rescue, also confirmed the three bodies have been found.
“Members of Squamish Search and Rescue worked with the RCMP this morning to recover the bodies of three individuals in the Atwell Peak area,” says Chute. “The task has been turned over to the RCMP and the Coroner Service.”
RCMP will not be releasing the individuals’ names.
The Squamish Chief continues to honour the families’ request that we not release the names.
“[Police] are in touch with the families, who
are requesting privacy during this difficult time. The names of the deceased will not be released,” says Const. Eden Johner
The trio set out to climb Atwell Peak in Garibaldi Provincial Park and did not return back down on May 31. They were reported missing by a family member and the search for the group started.
One of the individuals successfully made it to Atwell Peak, per social media posts seen by Glacier Media.
Less than five people summit Atwell Peak per year, according to a local guide who has made it to the top of the mountain Atwell Peak is 2,655 metres in elevation and is considered one of the steeper and more inaccessible peaks in Garibaldi Provincial Park. When the group went missing, the conditions were wet, cold and snowy.
SAR members were pulled back and the search was paused due to hazardous conditions and avalanche risk on June 6.
Email your news tip or story idea to: jthuncher@squamishchief.com iLemayConway@squamishchief.com
WHY MAMQUAM RING ROAD REMAINS CLOSED: OUTLINING THE ONGOING REPAIRS, CONTINUING CHALLENGES
A closer look at why restoring access is taking longer than anticipated
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com
The work to repair Mamquam-Ring Creek Road has taken the District longer than expected to address.
In November 2021, an atmospheric river event caused significant damage, including major road cracking and a landslide on an adjacent private property
Previously, the road was used by industrial and recreational vehicles; it was also a secondary emergency access road for the University Heights area Due to the damage, the road has been closed since 2021 to all users.
Jesse Morwood, capital projects manager at the District of Squamish, updated council on the road at a committee-of-the-whole meeting on June 25
There has been significant work completed, including addressing the original road cracking. On the landowner side, the work to address the slide has been ongoing since 2022, Morwood said. However, new cracks developed in the road over winter that have to be addressed, he added.
That will happen this summer
Morwood said the District has received Light Detection and Ranging (Lidar) imaging of the area, and the municipality’s geotechnical engineer is reviewing the data
to determine what additional work needs to be done before the road is deemed safe.
The District is doing a slope stability risk assessment on other intact areas of the road that were not directly impacted by the flooding from the atmospheric river, Morwood said, and assessing any potential risk of any re-opening of the road to any traffic.
According to the staff report, the threeyear project to date has cost $454,089. Of that, approximately $172,000 came back in funding from the provincial government’s Disaster Financial Assistance Recovery Plan
It is expected to cost $25,000 to repair the additional road cracking, which will be funded through the Annual Roads and
Bridges subproject, the report states. Morwood said a final report would be complete this summer and there would be a more fulsome report to council on the situation in the fall.
The intent is to eventually re-open the road to industrial and recreational users. Those interested can read the full report on the District’s website.
PHOTOS BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF
The road is currently closed to all traffic.
Ryan Kinghorn
‘OUTSTANDING GUY’: OUTPOURING OF GRIEF OVER MAN WHO DIED KITEBOARDING
Gray Taylor, who passed away on Canada Day, was a beloved and well-respected family man, say friends
JENNIFER
THUNCHER
jthuncher@squamishchief.com
The world lost an “outstanding guy,” says a friend of the man who died while kiteboarding in Squamish on Canada Day.
Gray Taylor died when an unusually strong gust of wind picked him up and brought him down on the rocks off of Squamish’s oceanfront park, says Michael Coulthard, Taylor’s friend who was with him at the time of the accident.
“He was just probably one of the nicest, most respected people I know in our community. It’s such a big loss,” Coulthard said.
“He was a really, really well-connected and respected person in the community.”
Taylor, a North Vancouver resident in his 50s, who spent a lot of time in Squamish, had a “great day” mountain biking here in the morning with friends. Then they headed to the
beach, and Taylor went kiteboarding
Coulthard said it was “really challenging” conditions on the water, and Taylor was just hit by the gust at the wrong time.
Coulthard noted Taylor was a former Ironman athlete and swimmer, who was experienced and very safety conscious.
“Not a risk taker at all; a very safe individual,” he said
When the accident happened, at about 4 p.m. on Monday, Coulthard pulled his friend to shore and administered CPR. There was a large group of people at the park who also rushed to help, including trained professionals, Coulthard said.
He stressed how quickly the response was by bystanders, and members of the Squamish Windsports Society, BC Ambulance Service and Squamish Fire Rescue
“The response was fast The help was there,” he said
The District of Squamish put out a statement about Taylor’s death on July 4, expressing the municipality’s
sadness and gratitude to those who tried to help Taylor
“The District is deeply saddened by this outcome and wishes to extend heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased at this difficult time,” the statement read
“The District would also like to express gratitude to all those who stepped in to help, and to recognize the swift response of the Squamish Windsport Society (SWS) operations crew on duty at Pepahim (Spit Island) who reached the injured kiteboarder within minutes and began first aid in this emergency situation.
Appreciation is also extended to the tireless efforts of Squamish Fire Rescue crews and all first responders on scene.”
Coulthard said Taylor was a family man, a devoted husband and a great father of a teenager
“Family was everything to Gray, but he gave himself to everyone,” said good friend Aaron Rideout.
“He was the first to volunteer his time to help out, to give guidance, or
just to chat He was immensely proud of the life he had built with his wife and son, and loved sharing those experiences with others: be it mountain biking, camping or eating a good meal He did everything with a smile on his face and made everyone around him feel comfortable and like they were important and heard and cared for. He was a gem.”
The developer behind the new oceanfront park sent condolences to Taylor’s family.
“We are deeply saddened to have heard about the tragic accident at Sp’akw’us Feather Park and offer our heartfelt condolences to the family and their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said John Matthews, president of Matthews West Developments, in an email to The Squamish Chief.
A spokesperson for the BC Coroners Service told The Squamish Chief it is investigating Taylor’s death. Taylor’s family asks for privacy during this difficult time
Taylor
NEXII BUILDING SOLUTIONS SAGA ENDS WITH BANKRUPTCY SALE
What’s left of green building materials company has been sold to two Americans
NELSON BENNETT BIV
The saga of green-tech darling Nexii Building Solutions has ended with a court-approved bankruptcy sale of the company and its debts to two Americans.
According to a BC Supreme Court approval and vesting order, Nexii Building Solutions and its subsidiaries have been sold to Nexiican Holdings Inc. and Nexii Inc. for $500,000 and assumption of more than $20 million in debt obligations.
The principals of the two acquiring entities are Blake Beckham, a lawyer with Beckham Portela in Dallas, Texas and director for Nexiican Holdings; and Russ Lambert, president of Nexii Inc.
The sale follows a demerger in May of Omicron Canada, which had been acquired by Nexii before its financial troubles forced it to seek creditor protection.
In May, Omicron principals bought the company back from Nexii, while it went through a restructuring.
Nexii has a manufacturing plant in Squamish. In May, Bill Tucker, CEO of Omicron and “bridge CEO” of Nexii Building Solutions, told BIV News that the Squamish plant would continue
operating.
Now that Nexii Buildings Solutions has been sold, it’s unclear whether the new owners will continue operating the Squamish plant BIV News has reached out to Blake Beckham for comment.
Nexii Building Solutions Inc. started in Moose Jaw, founded by two brothers, and later relocated to Vancouver. The company had developed a building material called Nexiite – a greener alternative to cement and concrete
The company attracted some high-profile names, including former Vancouver Gregor Robertson, who served as executive vice president of strategy, and its valuation was said to be $2 billion in 2022
But the company started running into legal and financial problems. It was sued in 2022 by Symphony Advanced Building Technologies Inc. over a licensing agreement, followed by a breach of contract suit in Pennsylvania in 2023.
In January, the company sought creditor protection and KSV Restructuring, a court appointed monitor, was appointed oversee a sale As BIV News reported in January, Nexii owed creditors more than $112 million.
-With files from Bob Mackin, Claire Wilson and Kirk LaPointe
PHOTO COURTESY OF SQUAMISH STREAMKEEPERS
THE GIVING KIND: Squamish Streamkeepers volunteers rescued thousands of coho fry from Swift Creek, as the temeratures were drying the creek out. From left to right: Sora Sauvageau, Chris Murrell and Kona, Keith Bewley and Brendan McDonald
COUNCIL REZONES PARADISE VALLEY LAND, HALTING PROPOSED HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
After much ado, District changes zoning for rural property slated for Paradise Trails at Squamish
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com
Aplan for a rural housing development, which has been in the works since 2008 in the Upper Paradise Valley, has been shelved after the land was rezoned by the Squamish council.
The proposed Paradise Trails at Squamish, spearheaded by Vancouver-based developer Michael Goodman, included 82 single-family homes—each 4,000 to 5,500 square feet in size—and amenities, including a North Squamish Volunteer Fire Brigade Society to protect the development and Paradise Valley, an equestrian centre and 6.8 kilometres of public horse-riding trails
The property, which does not have an official address, is along the Cheakamus River.
The developer calls it a plan for an “eco” community with passive houses and many other environmentally friendly features
The 65-hectare (160-acre) property was rezoned at the council’s regular meeting on June 18
This rezoning means that the Paradise Trails project will no longer be allowed on the property
On June 18, the council unanimously passed three readings and adopted an amendment to the Zoning Bylaw to rezone the property from Comprehensive Development Zone No. 52 (CD-52) to Resource (RE).
The goal for the rezoning, according to District staff, was to align the property with goals set out in the Official Community Plan.
According to District staff, the developer could, technically, reapply for an official community plan amendment and a rezoning if they wish to continue with the development.
However, a spokesperson for the project told The Squamish Chief that they do not plan to reapply and are considering the next steps.
“There were 18 community benefits associated with the development, including a wildfire fighting service on First Nations land There is currently no wildfire fighting service in that area,” said Goodman, in the emailed statement.
REZONED: Continued on 7
PHOTO BY NATTRASS/ ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS Drone view of the Cheakamus River, which runs through Paradise Valley and the proposed development.
REZONED: Continuedfrom6
BRIEFHISTORY
Thereisacomplex andsometimes contentiouslonghistory betweenthe property,those behindthe developmentand the municipality
Theparcelwas rezonedin2008toallow foranequestriancentreand 82 rural residentiallots.
Therecentstaff reporttocouncil notes that “atthe time of therezoning, the applicants were required to constructadike toprotect thepropertyfromflood hazard, given that alarge portionofthe property is locatedinthe primaryfloodwayofthe Cheakamus.”
District plannerBryan Daly,told council thatthe provincial government no longer allowsprivate diking structures;thus, the Districtwould need to take on dikingto protectthe project.
TheDistrict’sDavid Roulston notedthata 2017study showed thearea, including ParadiseTrails’ property,was at great risk of flood.
Thus,the District determined to avoid adding more housingdevelopmentsinthe region andtonot buildfurther diking there due to theextensive cost of construction and ongoing maintenance.
Thedeveloper recently commissioned a newreportthatsaysthere is less risk compared to theearlier report doneatthe timeofthe original rezoning.Districtstaff saidthatthe second report wasnot of the
professional levelofthe first.
ParadiseValleyTrailsdisputesthisand argues itsreportwas peer-reviewedby experts, thesameoneswho evaluatedthe CheakamusRiver forthe regional district and are“well-known hydrologists.”
Ultimately, thestaff report to councilsays there hadnot been aformalDevelopment Permitapplication that staffcan process.
FIRE PROTECTION?
Oneofthe sellingpointsofthe project was itsdesiretocreateafirebrigade in thevalley, an area that is outsidethe Squamish Fire Rescue jurisdiction andhas seen wildfires.
However, Daly said at councilthattheyput theproposaltothe Squamish Fire Department andgot the followingresponses:
“TheOfficeofthe Fire Commissioner does not permit fire brigades to be formed as a half measure. Afiredepartmenthas to be fullycertified underthe provincial standards andhavethe authority to do so within a localgovernment or fire protection district,” Daly read to council, adding that themunicipalityhas acollectiveagreement with theInternational AssociationofFire Fighters(IAFF)for staffing,and so adding a separatefiredepartmentwithinthe District ofSquamish couldbeviewedascontracting outofservices
“A fire hall pricetag wouldbeinthe neighbourhood of 14 to $16million as the ground is similartothe Tantalus site,but more at risk of catastrophic flooding. Squamish Fire Rescue does nothaveplans to
In thecurrent affordability crisis, inside ourclimate change reality, this is notthe timeto build estatehomes well outside ofour growth management boundary.
COUN.JOHNFRENCH
RATIONALEFOR REZONING SUPPORT
In voting in favour of therezoning, Coun. Andrew Hamilton said it wasadifficult issue to navigate.
“I have spoken to thedevelopersatlength,” he said
“Thisisasituation wherethere was somethingthatmay have seemed appropriate over adecadeago in theintervening decade We learnedmoreabout floodhazard. Our official communityplanhas changed, andour communityhas focusedonagrowthmanagement boundary.”
Coun.JohnFrench, in voicinghis support forrezoning, said he felt badlyfor the landowner, butthatitwas time “torip the Band-Aid off.”
establishafirehallinthisarea.”
Daly continuedthatParadiseValleydoes not have asufficientpopulationtosupport a firehall.
“Fireapparatuses areinthe range of 1.4to $1.7million each fora newfireengine, and take roughlythree yearstobuild duetoa backlogfromCOVID andcurrently Paradise Valleydoesnot have amunicipal water system in place, andthusdoesnot have a hydrantsystemfor firefighting,water supply.”
Again, thosebehindParadiseTrails dispute this, arguingthattheywerenot giventhe chance to “prove we canget it done.”
“Inthe currentaffordability crisis,insideour climatechangereality,thisisnot thetimeto buildestatehomes well outsideofour growth management boundary.The risksofmoving this proposal forwardare just toohigh, in my opinion, forour community,”hesaid.
Thedevelopment spokesperson said in an emailtoThe Squamish Chiefthatthere are “manypeoplewho aremuchmoresuitedto living rurally, whowanttoliveclosertonature, with theanimals,awayfromurban density, andare happierthatway.”
Paradise Trails also argues that this council decision fliesinthe face of newprovincial legislation, namely Bill 44,which encourages thebuildingofhousing
Watchthe full meetingand seethe staff report on theDistrict’swebsite
DISTRICT INTRODUCES AGRICULTURAL 1 ZONE TO SUPPORT FARMING
The new zone is being applied in a phased-in approach, starting with the rezoning of five properties that are currently actively farmed, says planner
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@squamishchief.com
Anew land use zone has been created to protect agricultural practices on Squamish Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) properties
Council members unanimously passed three readings of the bylaw amendments at its regular meeting on June 18th They then adopted the changes at their July 2 meeting.
The new Agricultural 1 zone is being applied in a phased-in approach, starting with the rezoning of five properties that are currently actively farmed.
Four of the properties are on Government Road, and one is on Harris Road.
This rezoning aligns these properties with the Agricultural Land Reserve, a provincial zone that prioritizes agricultural uses on land
District planner Aja Philp said the impetus for this rezoning was to align the area’s zoning with the Agricultural Land Commission Act (ALCA) and the Agricultural Land Reserve Use Regulation
(ALRUR).
“The current rural zoning that covers most of our ALR land within the district has inconsistencies that have led to the need to update the zoning,” she said, also noting “the challenge of preserving farming, both locally and across B.C. grows with each passing year.”
Philp noted that ALR lands face increasing pressure from urban development and encroachment.
“The District has a role to play in both preserving the community’s agricultural land base and in creating a regulatory environment that supports local farms and food production,” she said.
The new zone expands the uses allowed on the properties, adding accessory agriculture use definitions, such as agritourism, farm product processing, and gathering for an event.
Duplexes were removed from the allowable uses, as were pet daycares, which are considered a commercial nonfarm use.
(Kennel use is retained as a permitted use, to allow breeding and boarding.)
Short-term rentals were also no longer
allowed under the new zone
Changes were also made to allowable lot coverage and setbacks EASTER SEALS
A side issue that is addressed in the new zone is the granting of permission by the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission for Easter Seals Camp Squamish to re-establish the non-farm use of the property for outdoor education program camps, in partnership with Mulgrave School.
This use was considered by council in 2022 and forwarded to the ALC for approval.
One condition of the ALC approval was to amend the property’s zoning to ensure consistency with both the ALC decision and the ALCA and ALRUR, and Philp said this condition is met within the new zone District staff intend to work on rezoning other ALR lands in the district in future phases when they “have the capacity to engage with the large number of ALR land owners,” Philp said
Read the full staff report on the District’s website.
PHOTO BY DARRYL SCHWANKE
SUNKEN BOAT WITH HOLES ABANDONED IN BC PARK SPARKS ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS
Follow the case of an abandoned vessel at Porteau Cove, revealing challenges in dealing with marine debris and pollution
JENNIFER
THUNCHER
jthuncher@squamishchief.com
It is an abandoned boat saga
The tale begins on June 24, when
Squamish conservationist John Buchanan spotted an abandoned six-metre (20-foot) cabin cruiser washed up on the beach at Porteau Cove Provincial Park.
Buchanan, having reported and retrieved abandoned vessels in the past, took a closer look and took pictures to send to the regulator agencies.
It had fuel onboard, a refrigerator still on it, and something else caught his eye.
Unlike other abandoned watercraft he has seen, which may have gotten loose and drifted away, this one appeared deliberately sunk
“Somebody had actually drilled holes into the bow of the vessel.”
There were several 6.35 millimetre (.25 inch) holes in a pattern, he said
“This was not something that you can say, oh, you know, somebody accidentally dropped a drill on the hull.”
After reporting what he found to the Coast
Guard and the RCMP, he told some of his workmates what he saw.
With the help of a colleague, he found an old online advertisement for a boat that looked like the abandoned vessel
Buchanan passed this new information on to the RCMP
He then waited, checking on the boat’s location each day, but nothing happened
As of July 9, the boat remains at Porteau Cove Provincial Park, only now sunk beside the pier
Buchanan is beyond frustrated by the lack of action on removing the vessel, which he says is polluting the ocean with its fuel on board, the refrigerator and the fibreglass of the boat itself, which will start to break apart as waves pound on it.
“[Abandoned boats] pose environmental hazards that leach an array of contaminants into the sea, such as oil, fuels, paints, batteries, fibreglass, plastics and other toxins,” reads a post by the advocacy group Georgia Strait Alliance, on its website.
“This puts marine life and habitat at risk, not to mention the danger these vessels pose to mariners and beachgoers and the damage they can cause to shoreline facilities.”
Buchanan also noted this abandoned vessel is in a provincial park, with many visitors, including children
WHAT DO AUTHORITIES SAY?
A Coast Guard spokesperson told The Squamish Chief that the agency first received a call about the boat on June 22.
The vessel was assessed under the Canada Shipping Act and the Wrecked Abandoned and Hazardous Vessel Act.
“Our assessment determined that the vessel was not actively polluting and did not pose an immediate hazard to the environment,” the spokesperson said, adding that the case was handed to Transport Canada for further review
The Coast Guard has also issued a navigational warning in the event that the vessel moves with the tide
“We ask the public to please avoid the vessel, as it is private property and climbing
it could pose a risk of injury.”
The spokesperson noted that, under Canadian law, vessel owners are responsible for their watercraft at all times and must take all actions necessary, including repairs, salvage, and prevention or clean-up of leaking fuel and oil.
“Owners are responsible for the costs of addressing their problem or hazardous vessel This includes cleanup or repairs, and any remediation action taken by the Canadian Coast Guard.”
As the boat is located in a provincial park, The Squamish Chief also reached out to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, which is responsble for BCParks.
A spokesperson said that they were aware of the situation and staff were working with fellow agencies, “to ensure the abandoned vessel is dealt with as quickly as possible,” though repeated that the Coast Guard found it of “low risk of environmental damage.”
Before removing personal property from a park, BC Parks must provide a 30-day written ‘Order to Remove’ to the owner of the property in question, or post it on the property in question, the spokesperson said Squamish RCMP said that the most recent owner of the boat was identified, and the information provided to Transport Canada for their investigational purposes
“It’ll probably just stay there and bust up like the ones I saw recently at Britannia Beach and it gets dispersed into the environment,” Buchanan said, adding that months from now, pieces of debris from it may be cleaned up by citizens in a shoreline clean up, when it could have all been prevented had the boat been removed right away.
“It’s an easy recovery job. This is not complicated, but it will become complicated as storms pound this boat and destroy it.”
The Squamish Chief reached out to Transport Canada, but did not receive a response
Members of the public who see a marine pollution incident or a marine hazard are encouraged to report the incident to the Canadian Coast Guard at 1-800-565-1633
PHOTO BY JOHN BUCHANAN
The boat when it first appeared, beached at Porteau Cove.j
SQUAMISH YOUTH CLIMATE CORPS MEMBERS ROLL UP THEIR SLEEVES
Program provides participants with the skills and networking opportunities necessary to work in the environmental field
WILL JOHNSON
For The Squamish Chief
It’s better to be for something than against something
That’s the guiding ethos behind the Youth Climate Corps British Columbia, a multi-million dollar endeavour that aims to train and deploy young people working to address climate change. While some may picture environmentally-minded folks blocking traffic in a protest, or leading a blockade against a logging company, the climate corps pursues proactive projects that aim to empower youth to make the community stronger and more resilient.
“I think people are really seeing the impacts of climate change in a tangible way right now. We’re seeing record forest fires, heat domes—it’s becoming hard to ignore. I see with young people the impact on mental health and climate anxiety in a real way,” said the corps’ executive director Ben Simoni
“We need to bring more people on board, and we don’t operate with a scarcity mindset. We tell people that we’re not against things; we’re for them We’re for young people becoming key stakeholders and decision-makers with this climate crisis, because it will be affecting them for the rest of their lives. We’re for giving them
not just a seat at the table, but getting them involved in meaningful ways.”
A HANDS-ON APPROACH TO HEATING YOUR HOME
How airtight is your home?
That may be a question that never occurs to you, but for the participants in the climate
corps it’s a crucial way you can address individual energy consumption. If air is escaping through cracks in your ceiling or spaces between your floorboards, that means heat is escaping as well In the past weeks, members of the corp have been attending training where they learn the best ways to retrofit homes and make them environment-
ally friendly.
In Squamish, the corps is led by Nicole Kilistoff and Aida Goma Petit, who both took their positions in May. So far, they’ve embarked on numerous projects with the District of Squamish, educating the participants on the importance of networking with community partnerships, while also helping out at a local farm and teaming up with the Squamish Climate Action Network. But so far it’s the air sealing training that has been most hands-on
“We brought on RDH Building Science to do the training, and they’re showing us the best ways to do these retrofits. They give us the background on why we’re doing it and then focus on the actual hands-on application, with different tape and caulking and other materials,” said Kilistoff.
“Through our partnership with the District, this is something that actually exists in Squamish. Homeowners can apply to get funding or assistance to retrofit their homes. So we see who applies and then see what we can do to make their house more efficient.”
Kilistoff thinks it’s a perfect example of the sort of positive change the corps aims to create
“It’s a simple way to make older houses more
CLIMATE: Continued on 13
Showyoursupport!
WHATYOU MAYNOT KNOW ABOUT THERCMP’SINVESTIGATIVE TEAMS
Squamish
as
Mounties aresupported by specializedteams,such
ICARSand IHIT,tohelpwithrare, butimpactful events
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com
youhaveaccessto362 police officers to assist,” said Singer
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Squamish residentsare likely,and unfortunately,familiarwiththe RCMP’s Integrated Collision Analysis andReconstruction Service(ICARS) team,which comesout to investigatewhenthere is aserious or fatalcrash on theSea to SkyHighway
That specializedteamofMountiesispartof thelargerIntegratedTeams (I-Teams), whose jurisdiction covers PembertontoBostonBar.
Forthe firsttimeinabout five years, representatives from I-Teamspresented to Squamish councilonJune25, at MunicipalHall.
Thespecialized policingforce wascreated by theprovincialgovernmentand theMayors’ Councilbetween 2003and 2008,influencedby then-justice WallaceOppal’s 1994 report, “Closing theGap—Policingand the Community,”which aroseout of public concern over police conductin B.C.,Chief Supt.Bruce Singer,officer in charge of LowerMainland district Integrated Teams, told council.
Theteams serveasspecialized help local detachments, like Squamish,can call on,ifneed be
All23RCMPdetachments arerequiredtobe part of I-Teams.
Squamish is oneof33municipalitiesthat sharethe resourcesofthe InvestigativeTeams Theseteams wouldbeextremely expensivefor communitiestopay forthemselves, so the resource is shared,Singeradded.
They deal with low-frequency, buthigh-impact events in acommunity Singer notedIntegratedTeams areoften the most expensivelineitemofany municipality’s policing budget
Squamish’s projectedcontributiontoI-Teams forthe 2024-25fiscalyearis$686,851.
“The associated costsare dividedamong the partners basedontheir population size andthe incidenceofCriminalCodeoffencesintheir respective municipalities,” Singer told The Squamish Chiefina follow-upemail afterhis presentation.
“Eachmunicipality’sfinancial contribution is determined usingaformula that takesinto accountthese factors. Theannualcostis calculated usingafive-year rollingaverage to ensure financialstability andaccurateplanning. Additionally,the I-Teamshaveestablished partnerships with thefederal RCMP andthe provincial government,which enhances cost-effectiveness andfosters collaborative initiatives.”
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“When theinvestigation or when theincident exceedsthe capability of thedetachment, that’s when thespecialized teamscomein, the integrated teamscomein,”Singersaid.
I-Teamsinclude theIntegratedHomicide Investigation Team (IHIT),the Emergency Response Team (ERT), theLower Mainland Integrated PoliceDog Service(IPDS), Integrated Forensic Identification Services (IFIS) and ICARS.
BY THENUMBERS
ICARswas called to Squamish sixtimes in 2023.
IERT wascalledtwice to Squamish last year,oncefor ahigh-risk arrest andanother time forsomeone barricaded inside a building.
IERT also covers VIPsecurity. Theprime minister andother headsofstate would qualifyfor that service, Singer said.
IFIS had13calls forservice in Squamish, forissuesfromarson to firearmoffences.
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Thereare 362positions within I-Teams. The organization receives fundingfromthe three levels of government: federal, provincial and municipal.
IHIT hasthe most members, at 128.
“The awesome thingisthatwhenthatcritical incident happens, oneortwo phonecalls later,
DARTS&DAFFODIL
A500 ML BAGOF DAFFODILS to allthe nurses whoworkatthe Ambulatory Care unit at theSquamishHospital. They areall such awesome ladies forwhat they do and howwelltheydoit. They include, butare not limitedto,Megan,Tash, Trishand Rhonda.They areall very much appreciatedbyme. ~PhlebotomyRegular
IPDS fielded51calls in Squamish,being called outfor everything from some being
RCMP: Continuedon13
Gotsomething nicetosay or some constructivecriticism?SendyourDarts &Daffodils:
Email:news@squamishchief.com or drop off at The Chiefoffice (38117 Second Ave.)duringbusinesshours.Deadline for submissions is Monday at 4p.m.for Thursday’spaper.All submissions must be signed and include aphone number for verification. Maximumlengthis75words Dartsare intendedtobeananonymous critique betweenprivate parties.Darts must not directlyorindirectlyidentify an individualorbusiness.
BY DARRYL SCHWANKE
NAVIGATING BUSY WATERS: Darryl Schwanke was inspired by these seemingly parent-less ducks, navigating the many boats in Squamish’s harbour. “Brave and they really stick together,” he said
suicidal to assaults to missing persons.
“You’re lucky to have two IPDS members. So, the dog members living in the [District] of Squamish,” Singer said.
Because populations are increasing in B.C., the goal is to increase the number of positions within I-Teams, Singer said.
Council members raised the topic of the drama in Surrey over policing after the presentation
After much controversy and back-and-forth, a municipal police force will take over responsibility for law enforcement in Surrey at the end of November
Singer said that, as he has been told, the
RCMP Integrated Teams will continue to work with that municipality’s police force going forward.
“What they have told me, and what the province has told me, is that they fully intend to come on board to the Integrated Teams,” he said. “Which is a great news story… The more that we proportionally share the expense of specialized policing [the better],” he added, agreeing with Coun. John French that if Surrey were not part of I-Teams, it would cost the remaining municipalities more
“It would be a huge blow to the teams if they decided they were going to go on their own,”
Singer said
Find the whole presentation on the District of Squamish website.
efficient, and when they transition to heat pumps, they can use a smaller and less expensive heat pump.”
CLIMATE CHANGE AND COLONIZATION
How did we get here?
Many people see the overwhelming effects of climate change, but few think about the most foundational cause—the colonial culture that led to over-consumption and waste in the first place. For Keenan Miles, a member of the climate corps who studied climate change in university, it’s that element of the discussion that often gets overlooked.
“I think a really important part of addressing climate change is taking the social aspects into account. In Canada, that looks like listening to Indigenous voices and local nations,” he told The Squamish Chief.
“The question that guided my studies was ‘how did colonization lead to climate change?’. Ideally we need Indigenous-led organizations to work on getting the land back and ecosystem restoration, with a focus on equitable approaches to climate.”
Miles is ready to roll up his sleeves.
“I’m excited to help the District of Squamish with engagement for rewriting our climate action plan, and I’m excited to work with other non-profits because it seems like they’re doing a lot of cool stuff in town These community initiatives make us more climate resilient,” he said
His feelings were echoed by another member of his cohort, Michela Phillips, who has worked previously in addressing plastic pollution and creating sustainable agriculture. She would like to see the industrial wood waste in the area addressed, and is passionate about food sovereignty.
“My background is in microbiology, agriculture and food systems, so I see soil as having potential for sequestering carbon and creating better food systems. We also need to see the decarbonization of our buildings and our transportation as we move away from fossil fuels, and I’m interested in some more unconventional things we might not think of, like reducing food waste,” she said
She also noted that Squamish operates its own landfill, which will create a plethora of opportunities.
The participants will be engaged with a number of different projects, choosing themselves which ones they want to throw their weight into. So far, the province-wide program has completed 7,000 hours of climate action since 2020. Simoni believes this will transform the participants into the leaders of tomorrow.
“I’ve seen the impact the climate crisis has had on young people, but there’s the flip side where I’ve seen how impressive it was how they adapted to leadership opportunities. They’ve faced adversity and learned new things,” he said
“And it’s the perfect combination of introducing skill sets and leadership so that young people can find solutions to the climate crisis.”
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EDITOR
JENNIFERTHUNCHER jthuncher@ squamishchief.com follow @thuncher
REPORTER INDIGO LEMAYCONWAY iLemayConway@ squamishchief.com
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
TheSquamishChief is amemberof theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependentorganization 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.
EDITORIAL
PSSST, WORKERS
Thiseditorial is formaletrade workerswiththe FortisBC or WoodfibreLNG project; if that is notyou,keepscrolling,orflipthe page. OK,now that it is just us,weknowyou have likely seensomeintownspeakingabout youlikeevery last oneofyou coming to work here is apredator. Yes, yes, some of youare alreadyhere, living among us as productive citizens.However,weare in ahousing crisis,and they don’twantyou here.
Butwe also don’twant youinaboat, seven kilometres away
Anddon’t planto stay in theproposedFortisBC lodge, either,unless, of course,yourbossescould buildamassive wall—makeitconcrete—around the prison lodgewitharmed guards, so none of youever come to town
Of course,unlessyou arefixingtheir cars or,better yet,their mountain bike with your same handsand skills. That is fine.
That leadstoour firstSquamish survival tipfor LNGand pipelinetradespeople: Do youhavea mountainbike? Couldyou getone?
Thosewho aretryingtokeepyou out, don’tthink twiceabout thousandsofmountainbikers, 73%of whom are men, coming to town everyyear. So,ifyou couldevenget abikingjersey, that wouldhelp.
Thesamegoesfor rock climbing,hiking, etc. Men whodothose activities areinvited to come to town. Wouldyou be willingtobuy some climbing gear?
Yes,weknowmany of youalready mountain bike, climb,hike, andkiteboard,but then youput that high-vis vest on,see,toearnyourliving, andbecause youhave nowhereelsetogo, youtakeupour hotels. Yes, thoseother folksdo, too, buttheyhavegearwith them forrecreation. It’s like youaren’tevenpaying attentionhere. It is only certainmen—you—this appliesto. Yep, we know thereare alreadystrict policies andtraining aroundyourbehaviour.
Truthis, youare workingfor aproject that they don’tlike. They see youasfacilitatingclimate change. No,theydon’t care if yourecycle,wereborn well afterthe holesin theozone layer appeared and driveanelectriccar
Yes, yes, FortisBC does servicemostoftheir homes, andthatis fine.Itisalsofineifyou buildtheir homes, just notthese associated projects
They didn’t want theWoodfibre LNGproject,but theother levels of government forced it on them,so nowtheyare turningthatfrustration on you.
Ideally, youwould quit your job. Couldyou do that?
If youquitand then go work for, let’ssay,another industrial project up north, then come back down on holiday, that wouldbegrand.Theyloveyourtourism dollars. Stay in ahotel,goupthe gondola—heck,stay as long as youwant.
Just leavethe high-vis vest andhardhat at home. Gotit?
We hope this wasahelpful guidefor navigating our welcomingand beautifultown.
NEWREPORTER IN TOWN: INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY
MOUNTAIN VIEWS INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY
Hello Squamish,ithas been alongtimecoming, butitisnicetofinally be in your beautiful town
Forthose lookingatthe unfamiliar byline,you mighthaverealizedthatIamthe newest reporter to joinThe Squamish Chiefteam. Whilechangecan be abit intimidating—asis trustingyourstories with someonenew—I hope to reassure youthatyou areinsafehands with me
I’ve worked as ajournalistinWestern Australia since2021and have hadthe privilegetocover a varietyofdifferent storiesduringthistime. From heartbreakingtragedies,breakingnews, courts and crimetogovernmentalelections,every storyhas been alearningexperiencethathas mouldedme into thereporterIamtoday—One whoiswilling to listen to anyone with astory to share.
Despitebeing an Aussie andgrowing up across the seas,Iamactuallyadualcitizen of Canada,withmy mother’s side of thefamilyall hailingfromQuebec. This mightleadtothe assumption that Ican speak French,towhich Iwould sayIcan communicateata basiclevel butmostlylooklikeadeerinheadlights trying to find thewords buried in thebackofmy
Englishmind.
Iarrived in Canada in August of last year andspent sevenmonthsinQuebecamongst family and friends, butthe plan wasalwaystofindour wayto theWestCoast
During ourwinterseasoninMontTremblant whereI founda newloveofsnowboarding—my partnerand Iboughtand renovatedavan that has, forthe past nine weeks, takenusacrossthe U.S. to Squamish
This waswhere Igot my firsttaste of mountains— thekindwhere youstart to realizejusthow smallyou really arewhenlooking up at them from inside a valley
From YellowstoneNationalParktothe Grand Tetons to GlacierNationalParkinMontana,I’ve foundmyselffalling more andmoreinlovewith mountainsand allthe wildlife NorthAmerica hasto offer
Upon drivingintoSquamish, Iwas immediately takenbyits beauty—and,ofcourse, theStawamus Chief, whichIhavealready addedtothe topofmy list of hikestodo.
Moving forward, Ihopeyou will allfeelcomfortable reaching outtomewithany storiesyou think thecommunity should know aboutand,inlieuof that,any recommendationsonmust-seethings around Squamish that Ishouldcheck outonmydays off.
Reachtomeatilemayconway@squamishchief. com.
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)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
WHY NOT SHORT-TERM RENTALS?
Inote the council is creating zoning, Agriculture-1, and it is to support farming and the ALR lands for agriculture, and it also supports ecotourism. Huzzah. But the zoning also states it also excludes ‘short-term rentals’.
POLICY
In travelling, I have found wonderful B&Bs at farms and vinyards, which helps support the landowner/workers, and encourages sustainable food harvesting Such would be a boon to our tourist market, and have little impact on the lands. If there was a limit of ‘short term renter’ space based on a pro-rate percentage allowance of the respective
JOIN US ONLINE
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
How impacted were you by this week’s high temperatures?
Have your say at squamishchief.com
WEEK’S QUESTION
How did you mark Canada Day this year, Squamish? (Top 3)
acreage, could that not be allowed? (I am thinking of both RV overnight parking, or a suite.)
I see it as a win for the agroculturist (additional income for the farmer), and for the Municipality; both earning fees which helps to further support the ALR decision.
Andrea Symons Squamish
MOST READ STORY
Bodies of B.C. mountaineers recovered in Garibaldi Park
TOP TIKTOK OF THE WEEK
This week, our new reporter, Indigo LemayConway checked out the Squamish Farmers’ Market
Find this video and many more on our TikTok page, @squamishchief
PHOTO BY @INTHEWILDBC.BC FUN WAS HAD: July 1, the Sk wx wú7mesh Squamish Together DSBIA event filled Junction Park
GOT SPORTS?
Email the upcoming event info to: jthuncher@squamishchief.com
HERE’S WHERE TO WATCH THE SQUAMISH OPEN ANNUAL REGATTA
The Squamish Yacht Club event sees boats race on Howe Sound over the July 26 to 28 weekend
INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY
iLemayConway@squamishchief.com
The Squamish Open Annual Regatta (SOAR) is back and soaring to new viewpoints
Returning for its 43rd year, spectators will at last be able to view the three-day race on the waterfront at the new Feather Park.
A spokesperson for the Squamish Yacht Club told The Squamish Chief that the Sp’akw’us Feather Park would be one of the best vantage points to see the boats in action
“There has been no waterfront access for the last couple of years; the new park would be a great spot to see the racers finish the race on Friday,” the spokesperson said.
“It’s usually an exciting, windy finish!”
The annual regatta, which kicks off at 4 p.m. on Friday, July 26, will see boats from the Lower Mainland and the local area participate.
Launching from Porteau Cove, the boats will race downwind to Squamish and are anticipated to reach the outskirts of the new park at around 5 p.m.
The race picks up again on Saturday, July 27, at Squamish Harbour with the boats’ trajectory set to Kw’émkw’em (Defence Islands) and wraps up on Sunday, July 28, back in Porteau Cove
“We hope to have 30 keelboats attend the event, each with anywhere from four to 12 crew onboard,” said the spokesperson
They recommended Porteau Cove, the top of the Stawamus Chief or the Gondola, for impressive viewpoints to watch the race, as well as Sp’akw’us Feather Park.
“Some say that it is the best kept secret on the West Coast, but it is definitely the regatta with the most consistent winds, most spectacular venue, and voted the best party in the Pacific Northwest,” reads the website for SOAR
“We welcome you with beer at the dock party on Friday night. You party until you can’t take it on Saturday. Why not finish it off with a raft-up party in Porteau Cove after the race on Sunday? It’s hot, you still have the trip home; better stop for a swim!”
The dock party will also host a fundraiser barbecue, with proceeds going to RCM SAR.
Find more information about the event on the SOAR website, squamishyachtclub.com.
PHOTOS BY ROBERT TOROK
Feather Park
JEAN McENERY
March231937-June 26 2024
Jean passed away peacefully at SeatoSky Hospice on June 262024 surroundedbyher family.
No service by request
“Yourwings were readybut ourheartswerenot”
We love you mom
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CONSTRUCTIONLABOURER – Great opportunity to learnon-the-job. Stamina for physically demanding work andperseverance tobrave inclementweatherrequired.Previousexperience preferred but not required. Trainingprovided. $25-$32per hour
CROSSWORD
39. Fasten again
41. Chops
44. President’s no 46. Rustic 50. Too 53 Everyday 55. Behind 56. Avails
57. Shark appendage
58. Town’s kin 59 Apartment fee 60. Price add-ond DOWN
1. Explosion 2. Whitish gem 3. Lived 4. Embarrass 5. Take nourishment
6. Harness racer: 2 wds.
7. Active 8. Inquisitive one
9. Preacher’s subject
10 In favor of
11. Embroider
16. Crash into
20. Docking place 22 code
24 Partly open, as a door
25. Cab
26 Saw
27 Off yonder
28. Was a passenger on 29. Come together
31. Be defeated
34. You, once 40 Tusk material
42. Spot for a watch
43. Solar system’s center
45. Travel
47. Huck’s float
48. Formal solo
49 Wildcat
50 Rainbow’s shape
51. Honolulu handout
52. Posed
54. Bear’s abode
HOROSCOPE WEEK OF JULY 11, 2024 - JULY 17, 2024
ARIES March 21-April 19
This is an excellent week to consider taking a holiday or changing your environment. Learning a new language could be a good idea, especially if you plan to travel or relocate
TAURUS April 20-May 20
If intense emotions arise, you may feel like isolating yourself However, your friends will be there to support you and cheer you up
GEMINI May 21-June 20
If you feel unwell, talk to your doctor immediately. Your intuitive nature will help you create a harmonious atmosphere around you. Your protective and nurturing attitude will help improve workplace morale
CANCER June 21-July 22
At work, you must handle urgent or confusing situations before the holidays. Be careful while swimming so you don’t catch an infection If you’re single, now’s a
great time to meet new people
LEO July 23-Aug. 22
Spoil yourself by going to the movies or enjoying other forms of entertainment. You could find yourself in the limelight in one way or another Use your creativity to showcase your talents
VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22
You might have to travel frequently this week despite your love for staying home Your family will ask for your help, and you won’t be able to refuse them
LIBRA Sept. 23-Oct. 22
If you have a public speaking event, you must thoroughly prepare. Improvisation won’t cut it Use tact and diplomacy to resolve conflict.
SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21
Be careful while interacting with certain people Use tact and sensitivity to avoid misunderstandings.
Be prepared for unexpected expenses
SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21
You might need to take vitamins to maintain your energy levels Your ideas may seem confusing at first, but staying focused will help bring them to life
CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19
You tend to spend all your energy trying to do everything. Many people will need your help this week, and you’ll devote yourself to them even if it exhausts you
AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb 18
You’ll be given important responsibilities It’s crucial to clarify roles to avoid confusion, even at home Be patient with those close to you as you manage these challenges.
PISCES Feb. 19-March 20
If you’re considering a career change, this is the perfect week to take a training course Don’t let this opportunity pass you by It could help you land your dream job.
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.
SUDOKU
