Tourism Squamish launches new program to help pick up the trash
THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2024
Tragic death on Canada Day prompts investigation by municipality, Windsports Society to review incident and safety protocols at Sp’akw’us Feather Park
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com
There has been much talk in the last few weeks since North Vancouver’s Gray Taylor died while kiteboarding in front of Sp’akw’us Feather Park, on Canada Day afternoon.
While there may be different perspectives on what went wrong, there is no debate that this was a tragic accident that took the life of a beloved father, husband, friend and community member
Though nothing compares to the pain his loved ones are feeling, the death of Taylor has also been traumatic for those who stepped in to try and help him, those who watched the tragedy unfold in real-time, and those who were there that day.
There is also a collective wish now to learn from what happened and hopefully prevent it from happening
PHOTO BY GRAHAM ROWBOTHAM
SIGNS OF SUMMER: The crocosmia bloomed in the Valleycliffe yard of Graham Rowbotham last week and “the hummingbirds are all over it,” he said.
CARBON ENGINEERING BUYS LAND FOR EXPANDED R&D FACILITIES
Firm to mark 10 Years in Squamish with new direct air capture development
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com
Squamish-based cleantech darling Carbon Engineering (CE) is growing again.
This week, the company announced the purchase of 1.8 hectares (4.5 acres) in the Business Park area of Squamish.
The plan is to build Direct Air Capture (DAC) research and technology development facilities on the land to complement its existing Innovation Centre, which is located about 4.5 kilometres away from the new site on Squamish’s oceanfront
“The additional facilities will continue the company’s focus on creating an optimal environment for both innovation and the people who drive this important work,” a news release stated
For the uninitiated, Carbon
CORRECTION
In the July 11 edition of The Squamish Chief, in the article Council delays decision on FortisBC TUP ‘lodge’ permit over location concerns, it was written that the council vote was unanimous. In fact, councillors Andrew Hamilton and Eric Andersen voted against the motion The Squamish Chief apologizes for this error.
Engineering is developing technology capable of capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) directly out of the atmosphere, with the aim of helping slow down the impacts of climate change.
The firm was founded in 2009 and built its first pilot plant on the east side of the Squamish oceanfront property in 2015.
The current Carbon Engineering Innovation Centre was built in 2021 and is now located on the southwest portion of Oceanfront Squamish’s property.
In 2023, Carbon Engineering was bought for US$1.1 billion, making it a wholly-owned subsidiary of Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, which is owned by Occidental Petroleum.
“At the core of Oxy and CE’s decision to join forces less than a year ago was the commitment to invest in the team and technology here in Canada Today, this land purchase and subsequent development plans are evidence of that commitment put into action locally as we approach our 10th anniversary in Squamish next year,” said Rick Ritter, general manager of Carbon Engineering, in a news release.
According to Ritter, the two newly purchased lots are along Queens Way in the Business Park, north of downtown Squamish. The exact lots are 1091 and 38939 Queens Way.
“We plan to build a multi-bay warehouse-type structure for
research and development activities. The new location is also designed to provide additional office and lab space for our growing team,” said Ritter, in an email to The Squamish Chief. CE currently boasts about 170 employees.
“Our operations at the Innovation Centre in the oceanfront area will supplement learning at this new site
by providing an open-air fully integrated plant to test new improvements.”
With expanded research and development facilities, CE will be adding to the company’s technology development team, bringing engineers, scientists and other technical experts to the area.
“We’re early in the process, having recently completed due diligence
At the core of Oxy and CE’s decision to join forces less than a year ago was the commitment to invest in the team and technology here in Canada.
RICK RITTER
and closing on the property,” Ritter said, adding that the company is working with the District of Squamish
Go to Carbon Engineering’s careers page for more on the specific jobs available.
“As Squamish continues to lead the world in dedicated Direct Air Capture research and development, our team and technology activities are growing, and we find ourselves in need of more space,” said Dr. Andrew Ostericher, CE director of technology development. “These expanded facilities will complement existing activities while also making room for exploring new pathways for this critically important technology.”
INVESTIGATION: Continued from 1 again
What all those The Squamish Chief spoke to agreed on, too, is that kiteboarding is not a risk-free sport and that the wind conditions at the time of the incident were challenging, even for veteran local kiters, some of whom said they chose not to go out due to the conditions
As for what, if anything, can be done, the municipality has launched an investigation into just that
“In response to last week’s fatal accident, senior District staff are conducting an investigation into the factors that contributed to the accident … in close consultation with the Squamish Windsports Society as subject matter experts,” said District of Squamish director of communications, Christina Moore.
For its part, the developer of the property said it will continue to work with the parties involved regarding the watersports beach at the park, which has been temporarily closed to kiting due to the incident, since July 5.
“Since 2018, Oceanfront Squamish has worked closely with the Squamish Windsports Society and the District of Squamish on Sp’akw’us Feather Park We are deeply saddened about the tragic accident at the 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.
“We will continue to support Squamish Windsports Society and the District of Squamish as they work together to determine best practices on the windsports beach.”
Asked for its perspective, the Squamish Windsports Society’s vice-president said the organization can’t comment.
“Currently, we are unable to comment on the event as we are voluntarily participating in the investigation led by the District,” said the society’s Olivier Corbeil, in an email to The Squamish Chief.
“Our focus is on understanding the incident and establishing best practices for the
windsports beach. We have been collaborating closely with all involved parties and anticipate sharing more information in the coming weeks.
We wish to express our gratitude to our Squamish Windsports Society team, the Good Samaritan bystanders, and emergency services for their efforts in the July 1st rescue,” he added.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.”
TWO VETERAN KITERS’ PERSPECTIVES
While not representative of all kiteboarders’ opinions, two locals shared with The Squamish Chief their perspectives as veteran kiters.
Christopher Rollett, who has been involved in the sport locally for a decade, including previously managing the Pepahím (Spit), said that the same spot on the oceanfront was a very advanced place to launch, even before it was redeveloped, due to the wind direction.
“Basically, it’s straight onshore wind, so anything happens, you go in the direction of the wind,” he said
“It was considered a very dangerous launch
And most people were very intimidated when they were down there. So that right off the bat, just would immediately stop a lot of people from even trying, or attempting to launch there.”
With the area’s current design, his feeling is that to prevent less advanced kiters from hurting themselves or others, kiteboarding either has to be permanently banned there or heavily managed, perhaps by the Squamish Windsports Society, which would need funding help to do so.
As for banning kiting altogether, Rollett pointed to another popular kiting location, Hood River, in Oregon. Its main launch area, right in the town, does not allow kites to launch.
“Everybody is fine with that,” Rollett said, noting that kiters are just directed to where they can launch.
In Squamish, kiters can still launch from Spit Island, with a shuttle run by the Squamish Windsports Society.
As for monitoring of the beach at the Squamish oceanfront, Rollett reiterated some direction is needed.
“There needs to be beach marshals or
lifeguards there, basically telling people how to launch, where to launch, where to go in the water and what to do.”
As is clear on the signage at the watersports beach, the oceanfront spot was never intended for kiters who are not advanced
“This is an advanced kiteboarding launch only There are many downwind hazards with difficult onshore winds,” reads the sign at the beach site
Doug Sage, another veteran local kiter who witnessed the accident that fateful July 1, said he didn’t go out that afternoon due to the gusty conditions.
In terms of the beach’s design, he questioned the position of the large rocks.
If they can’t be removed or reduced, then perhaps they could be covered, he said.
“Some kind of egress, like, covered with stone or gravel or, grasses or whatever, but just make it user-friendly,” he said.
“There’s got to be something done there. That’s for sure.”
Sage and Rollett both said that the close mix of kiters and the public, including children, around the beach area is a concern.
Sage noted seeing non-kiters having picnics on the grass of the launching beach as an example, near sharp foils and in the range of sharp kite lines, which could easily hurt someone.
The walkway that goes right by the beach could also be problematic, Sage said, adding there can be windsurfers rigging on one side and kiters on the other, closer to the water, and then people walking through them
“They’re oblivious to what’s going on,” he said, of walkers he has seen who clearly aren’t familiar with the dangers involved with being so close to the equipment and athletes.
Everyone The Squamish Chief spoke to for this story expressed sympathy for Taylor’s family and friends. And each source was deeply impacted by the awful incident. All expressed hope for something positive to come out of the tragedy.
The District aims to complete the investigation within two to four weeks, its spokesperson said
PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF
The watersports beach on the oceanfront
DISTRICT INVESTIGATES WATER-SAVING SYSTEM FOR NEW SPLASH PAD
More updates on local projects include when the new Tantalus fire hall is expected to be finished, current demolition work at Brennan Park and if Valleycliffe residents are still on track for a childcare centre in 2025
INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY
iLemayConway@squamishchief.com
The District of Squamish is investigating if they can reduce the amount of water usage for the planned splash park at Brennan Park.
At the July 9 committee of the whole meeting, District director of facilities planning and construction Kal Bragg, revealed the muni was looking into the costs of a recirculating system, which would see the park use recirculated water instead of potable.
The splash park project is currently running behind schedule, with Bragg noting it had been purposefully moved into 2025 due to issues with meeting the $1.8 million budget.
“For the splash pad and playground, we are over time on this, and this one is on purpose because … the numbers we were getting in were exceeding the budget that we had allocated for
this project,” Bragg said
“We’ve moved the project into 2025 The current work at the moment is that we’re redoing the Class C budget we are also looking at a recirculating system to increase the sustainability of the project itself so it reduces water over time.”
According to the U.S. National Recreation and Park Association, “larger aquatics facilities rely on recirculation systems to keep the water clean. They use a series of tanks and pipes to supply water, then capture that same water and convey it to a collection tank where it is treated so it can be safely reused.”
Bragg explained that most splash parks in B.C. have a “flow-through effect” which results in a high litre usage of potable water.
“We’re obviously very environmentally conscientious, and there is a way that we can save water and that’s using a recirculating system,” he said.
SLRD FINANCIALS SHOW 45% INCREASE IN NUMBER OF TOP-PAID BUREAUCRATS
More than 30 public employees topped the $75K reporting threshold in 2023
$287,170 for the whole of 2023, while they claimed $35,338 in expenses
SCOTT TIBBALLS
stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com
The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District has released its provincially-mandated Statement of Financial Information (SOFI) for 2023, giving residents a look in at where the money was going last year.
SOFI documents must be released by municipal governments before the end of June in the following year The SLRD’s documents can be read as part of its June 26 board meeting package.
Taking a look at pay for elected officials, the SLRD paid its board members a collective
The SLRD board has 11 members: Four area directors and seven appointees from member municipalities, with the number of municipal members determined by population. Area directors are paid more than municipal directors, who also receive their wages as councillors.
For 2023, the SLRD paid 13 board members, with two alternate directors pulling a salary for attending meetings.
Board chair, Jen Ford of Whistler, earned $35,238 and claimed $2,396 in expenses, while vice-chair, Vivian Birch-Jones of Area C, earned $36,606 and claimed $4,687 in expenses
Compared to 2022 numbers, remuneration went up In 2022, the 18 elected officials who
served on the board earned $259,429 and claimed $30,680 in expenses, making the 2023 numbers a 10.7% increase for wages, and a 15.2% increase for expenses
On the side of the bureaucracy, SOFI documentation requires municipal governments to report the wages of any public official who makes more than $75,000.
The numbers reported include retroactive pay increases, vacation pay-outs and taxable benefits, and is therefore not their salary or take home pay, but the total remuneration they received for the year.
In 2023, there were 32 employees who cleared the $75K reporting threshold, with the top-paid bureaucrat being former chief administrative officer, Craig Dalton, who earned $164,406
Dalton departed the SLRD in September of
2023, so he only claimed a portion of his annual pay. The temporary CAO for the remainder of 2023, Nikki Gilmore, earned $96,926.
Behind Dalton, the next highest-paid public employee was the SLRD’s director of finance, Suzanne Lafrance, who earned $163,763; director of protective services, Mark Phillips, who earned $158,129; director of legislative and corporate services, Angela Belsham, who earned $149,336; and director of strategic initiatives, Kristen Clark, who earned $147,593.
The 32 employees who were above the $75K reporting threshold earned the vast majority of wages paid out by the SLRD: They were collectively paid $3,428,814 of the $4,105,026
BY THE NUMBERS: Continued on 6
PARK: Continued on 6
PHOTO BY INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Brennan Park Recreation Centre will be upgraded significantly in the coming years.
BatWalk with Felix Martinez
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PARK: Continued from 4
“Recirculating systems cost more and … it’s not a standard process that a lot of other splash parks in B.C. have done before. I think there’s only one or two that have done them before.
“However we are quite comfortable that other municipalities and councils and districts are in the same boat where the next splash parks that they create, they’re going to have to look at some sort of water saving
“So the situation we’re looking at now is we are just juggling the cost of the recirculating system compared to the budget that we’ve got and what the returns are at the end of the day,” Bragg said There were also updates on other large projects across the Squamish district
FIRE HALL 2
The new Tantalus fire hall, long-awaited after previous repairs to the aging fire hall at that location left it held up by exterior metal posts for
BY THE NUMBERS: Continued from 4
paid to all employees.
Last year was a year of significant growth in the public service for the SLRD The year prior, in 2022, there were only 22 employees who surpassed the $75K reporting threshold and collectively earned $2,408,776 of the $3,491,342 paid to all employees.
The number breakdown reveals there was a 45% increase in high-earning employees, and
years, is almost done.
Despite running two months behind schedule on this project, the municipality is set to complete the District’s Fire Hall No. 2, in “about two weeks”.
“We are very, very close to getting final occupation on this project,” Bragg said
“The current work includes storage lockers being installed, interior finishes being finalized and that includes the lighting fit out as well as landscaping.”
The final steps include signage being installed and fitting out the interior with furniture.
BRENNANPARKRECREATIONCENTRE
Phase one of the Brennan Park Recreation Centre project, budgeted at $20.5 million, is on time and on budget, with the completion of this particular phase set to be at the end of 2025
The project is being supported by an $11.7 million Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program grant from Infrastructure
those earning more than $75K collectively were paid 83.5% of remuneration to employees in 2023, compared to 69% of all wages in 2022.
The regional district also paid out $10.7 million to suppliers and contractors in 2023—with the reporting threshold being $25K There were 60 companies and suppliers that made the list, which collectively were paid
$8,980,040
Big names on the list were the Receiver General for Canada (for RCMP services), to
Canada.
The demolition of the changing rooms has begun, as well as preparation on the customer administration site.
Bragg explained the next steps of the project will be to start the construction work for the customer service building and lobby and “getting the real renovation works happening.”
The District is currently moving through the process with the grant supplier for Stage 2 of the project.
VALLEYCLIFFE CHILDCARE
The childcare centre, budgeted for $3.3 million, is on schedule and set to be completed by 2025.
About a year ago, an archaeological find slowed the project down
“As archaeological materials were identified during this pre-construction assessment, the District is applying for a Site Alteration Permit as required in order to move forward with the
which the SLRD paid $1.3 million. RCMP services was the only account paid more than $1 million in 2023.
Rounding out the list of top payees were Lil’wat Construction, receiving $703,801; the Municipal Pension plan, receiving $608,843; Keats Island Construction, receiving $472,526; Alliance Traffic, receiving $455,312; and BC Hydro, which was paid $395,230
Returning to the CAO pay item, while there were two individuals who served in the role in
development project,” said District spokesperson, Rachel Boguski, in an email to The Squamish Chief in June of last year.
“All permit requirements will be followed for heritage protection in accordance with the Heritage Conservation Act.”
The District said that, as per the Heritage Conservation Act, specific information, such as what was found and its exact location, was not available to the public
Currently, however, the building is under permit and concrete has been poured in the footings
“The archaeological work is complete, which is another high-risk area, but it’s good to know we’ve moved through that process as well,” Bragg said, noting that
“The next step is to backfill and start the flooring prep and really start to pursue the construction and framing of the building
~With a file from Andrew Hughes/The Squamish Chief
2023, the SLRD was also on the hunt for a new CAO in 2023, and engaged the services of headhunting firm, Leaders International. Leaders International was paid $48,357 for its services in finding and vetting top candidates for the role of CAO, which is typically the highest-paid role in municipal government.
The new CAO, Heather Paul, stepped into the role in mid-January 2024 following the conclusion of the search
TOURISM SQUAMISH LAUNCHES RED BAG PROGRAM TO HELP CLEAN UP LOCAL OUTDOOR HOTSPOTS
The good deed will also be rewarded with a free cold (or hot) drink of choice
INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY
iLemayConway@squamishchief.com
There is nothing worse than planning to spend a day outdoors, only to find that previous visitors have left their trash behind: what was once a place full of nature’s beauty is now covered in napkins, plastic and food waste.
In a bid to keep the Sḵwxwú7mesh wilderness trash-free, Tourism Squamish has launched a new program aimed at encouraging campers and outdoor enthusiasts to pack out their rubbish. In return, they’ll give you a free drink to say thank you.
The Red Bag program, which kicked off on July 11, involves equipping visitors with specially designated red garbage bags that people can use to collect and dispose of their waste responsibly during their outdoor adventures.
The bags are being distributed by Tourism Squamish’s destination stewards team at key outdoor sites across Squamish.
Once filled, participants simply return the red bags to the Visitor Centre located in the Squamish Adventure Centre.
“We are delighted to introduce the Red Bag Program as part of our ongoing commitment to responsible recreation practices in Squamish,” Lesley Weeks, executive director of Tourism Squamish, said in a news release.
“This initiative reflects our dedication to preserving the natural environment that attracts visitors to the area, while also providing a tangible incentive for responsible behaviour.”
As a way to thank the community and visitors who participate in the program, the Visitor Services team will give participants a token, locally made by Create Makerspace This token can be redeemed for a complimentary bever-
age—a lager or latte—at participating venues.
Participants can enjoy a beer or beverage from A-Frame Brewing Co or Howe Sound Brewing; or a caffeinated treat from Caffe Garibaldi.
“By participating in the Red Bag Program, visitors not only help keep our outdoor spaces clean but also receive a well-deserved treat as a token of our appreciation,” Weeks said
Tourism Squamish hopes the Red Bag program will help to reduce the ecological footprint of outdoor recreation and camping activities in Squamish
For more information about Tourism Squamish and the Red Bag Program, please visit the Explore Squamish website.
FREQUENT VISITOR: Another image in the hummingbird series by photographer Graham Rowbotham. Have a photo to share? Send it to news@squamishchief.com
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Bring your trash back to the Squamish Adventure Centre.
SQUAMISH BUSINESS BEAT: KEIR FINE JEWELLERY TO CLOSE LOCAL STORE
Keir Fine Jewellery announces the closure of its Squamish outlet in August; Whistler flagship remains operational
Squamish is set to lose a jewellery store as Keir Fine Jewellery prepares to close its doors.
Owner Lana Beattie told The Squamish Chief she was devastated to have to end their time in Squamish, but couldn’t afford to keep the store running with current clientele numbers.
“We did want to grow our business, but unfortunately, we did not have enough of a customer base in Squamish to keep things going, which is very sad,” Beattie said.
“We had lots of great customers and made lots of great friendships there, but unfortunately, we are not going to be able to keep our doors open.”
Beattie purchased Keir Fine Jewellery in Whistler in 2012 and opened their second store in the Fairmont Chateau Whistler in 2016
When the lease ended in 2019, Beattie made the decision to relocate the business to Squamish and opened the store in the Chieftain Plaza the same year
“We had full services, so we did watch batteries, strap adjustments, repairs, custom work and then, of course, sold the stock we had at the store,” Beattie said
“We were there for almost five years we did give it a good try, and sometimes you have to try and fail and then just pick up the pieces and keep going.”
She recalls the moment a couple spontaneously got engaged in the Squamish store in 2021 as one of the most memorable moments in the store’s history.
We had lots of great customers and made lots of great friendships there, but unfortunately, we are not going to be able to keep our doors open.
LANA BEATTIE
“Many Squamish clients have allowed us to share in these precious moments, it is so beautiful,” Beattie said.
Keir Fine Jewellery will remain open until early to mid-August with services to continue as per normal in their flagship Whistler store.
“We would like to thank the Squamish community for supporting us while we were there and we do feel very bad that we are not going to be able to continue on,” Beattie said
“Unfortunately, it’s a business decision, and we are definitely going to miss our Squamish customers. I hope they’ll come see us in our Whistler store, which we hope will be open for another 20 years.”
‘Squamish business beat’ is a series that arose from feedback from locals who wanted to see more business-related news To be considered for this series, please email news@squamishchief. com.
PHOTO BY INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF
Lana Beattie bought her first Keir store in Whistler in 2012; she opened in Squamish in 2019
INDIGENOUS POLICE CADETS TOUR SEA TO SKY
Participants learned about resilience during Squamish spirit bath
WILL JOHNSON
For The Squamish Chief
The cold is a kind of teacher.
Last Month, on the banks of the Squamish River, Vancouver Police Department Const. Freddy Lau stood shivering in the mountain wind with three Indigenous cadets and three fellow officers They’d come to the Sea to Sky Corridor to experience a spirit bath, a ritual led by the department’s Indigenous protocol liaison, Rick Lavallee Rocks had been arranged into position to create individual pools for them to plunge into, and it was time to dunk
The glacial water was absolutely freezing
“Rick explained to us why we do this It’s about cleansing your mind, a sort of mind over matter thing. He coaches you through how to fight through it, and the more you do it, the easier it becomes. He used it as an analogy for life,” Lau told The Squamish Chief.
“If you come through an obstacle the first time, it’s tough, but the more these things happen, the more resilient you become.”
This is one of the life lessons Lau hopes to share with the Indigenous cadets he works with this summer. As a diversity liaison officer and co-ordinator of the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) program, he’s tasked with
exposing cadets to the many different facets of law enforcement—and that doesn’t mean just handing out tickets or going out on patrol.
The youth were given the opportunity to tour a courthouse, participate in the annual Musqueam Canoe Races and help refurbish a sweat lodge.
They’re about three weeks into their program, which runs until Aug. 23.
It is a full-time paid position, and can act as a stepping stone for pursuing a career not only in policing, but in any vocation related to the law.
“In the beginning, we do an orientation where we educate them on the tip of the iceberg: legal use of force, radio etiquette, basically a crash course During the Musqueam Canoe Races, they were helping out the community and driving Elders around, doing whatever needs to be done,” Lau said
“Some days, we have guest speakers such as the major crimes unit, or forensics, the school liaison or maybe the gang crime unit Last week in provincial court, they got a little taste of what court is like They were able to see a trial from beginning to end, the cross-examination, how the lawyers argue.”
He’s seen firsthand how these experiences inspire the cadets
“Some people who do this program may not be interested in law enforcement or considering a career in it Some want to pursue one, but don’t know how. In our last class, two cadets ended up becoming community safety officers, and one now works full-time at the jail,” he said.
Lau feels awareness about the program is currently low, and he’d like to see more applicants.
“We’ve had this program for more than 15 years and I feel this program could be bigger. We do recruiting events, and our recruiting
The VPD Cadet Program came to Squamish last month.
BEATING THE HEAT: A great blue heron cools off
VPD: Continued from 10
department reaches out to schools, and counsellors, but a lot of people still don’t know about it. At this point, a lot is just word of mouth,” he said.
Ultimately, Lau would like future cadets to join him on the banks of the river, just like this year’s cohort did. Learning from Lavallee’s teachings, which involved songs and lessons from the river, Lau reflected on the fact that many Vancouver officers travel up the Sea to Sky highway to have these spirit baths or to bask in the sweat lodge and forget the stress and tension of the job. This is one way that police officers are slowly strengthening their relationships with
Indigenous communities in the time of Truth and Reconciliation, by learning about their customs and participating.
“I feel it’s important for us as police officers to listen and learn. It’s just as important as having people who are willing to teach. It goes both ways. I believe police can move forward and make things better with open communication and there has to be an effort on both sides,” he said.
“For me, it was a great experience.”
The program is made possible through funding from the Vancouver Police Foundation and ACCESS Employment centre.
To learn more about the Indigenous cadets program, visit this website.
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EDITORIAL
MARINE GRAVEYARD
Imagine drivingupthe SeatoSky Highwayand seeing abandonedcar afterabandoned car littering thesides of theroad.
Ifitweren’t duetoashoot fora doomsday movie, most of us wouldfindthathighlyunacceptable.
And yet, effectively, that is what thecoast of B.C. is like, with abandonedboats
Whythe difference?
Well,let’s saythere’s an abandonedcar on theside ofHighway 99:there is aprettyquick andefficient pathto having it removed
“Ifthe abandonedvehicle is in anypartofalaneor inthe wayofsnowremoval equipment, it’s adanger to trafficand will be towedimmediately,” readsthe provincial government’sTranBCsite.
Now,ifthatvehicle on thehighway isn’tblocking traffic, police will post anoticeonit, alerting the owner that it will be towedwithin72hours.
“Ifthe vehicleisburnedout,severelydamaged or otherwiseunsalvageable,itistowed directly from theroadtoascrapyard,and theownersare advised thattheyare responsiblefor towing anddisposal costs.”
Simple, right?
Of course,there areexceptions, like on thelot near Marine Estates, wherecarssat formonths, if not years,onalot ownedby theprovincialgovernment.
Butgenerally speaking,abandoned cars in high-trafficked areasare dealtwithtoutdesuite.
Thesituation with abandonedboats,as we have seen with theabandoned pleasure craftatPorteau CoveProvincialPark, is much slower andmore complicated.
There arelayersofjurisdictionand bureaucracy; the result is that aderelictboat, possibly deliberately damagedand abandonedwentfrombeing easy to retrieve from theprovincialparkbeach,withzero pollution, to abroken-up vesselthatwas carrying fuel andother contaminants underthe waterfor closetoa month, undera pier visitedbytourists, locals andcampers.(It wasremoved July 15.)
We need thesameurgency to remove theseboats, given to derelict cars on thesideofHighway 99
Since2019, with thepassage of Bill C-64 it hasbeen illegaltoabandon aboatinCanada.
Some of theproblem seemstobeidentifying who owns foundboats,but thereisalsojurisdictional confusionattimes,aslocal John Buchanan found.
The problemis also overwhelming.The Coast Guardhas alistofclose to 1,500abandoned vessels.
Wedon’t have allthe answers, butwhatis happeningnow clearlyisn’t workingwell.
Thus,our shorelineisakintoapost-apocalyptic movie set.
None of us should be OK with that.
GROWINGMAJORITYDISAGREEWITHA PROVINCIAL NAME CHANGE FOR B.C.,SURVEYREVEALS
opinion on thematter.
GUESTCOLUMN MARIOCANSECO
InNovember2023, Research Co.and GlacierMedia looked into themeaning of reconciliation for residents of BritishColumbia. Theresults outlined a public that waswilling to actbut confused abouthow to go aboutit.
Almost two-thirds (65%)expressed positive views aboutreconciliation,defined as establishing and maintainingamutuallyrespectfulrelationship betweenIndigenousand non-Indigenouspeoplesin Canada.However,whenasked specifically about economic reconciliation—orthe processofmaking economic amends forhistoricalinjustices to Indigenous Peoples—favourable viewsfellto50%
Over thepasttwo decades, residents of British Columbia have hadsignificant conversationsabout reconciliation.One aspect that hasbeentangentially discussedischangingthe name andflagofthe province in favour of termsorensigns that payhomage to oursharedIndigenousheritage.
This year,withaprovincialelectionlooming,just underthree in 10 (29%,downthree points sincelate 2022)are willingtochangethe name of theprovinceto acknowledgeits Indigenous heritage.Agrowing majority(60 %, up sevenpoints) disagree with this notion,including almost half (46%)who strongly dislikeit. Onein10(10 %, down five points)haveno
Theage differencescontinuetobestaggering. While more than half of BritishColumbiansaged18to34are readytoconsidera name change (52%), theproportionsdropdrastically amongtheir counterparts aged 35 to 54 (32%)and aged 55 andover(11 %)
BritishColumbianswho votedfor theBCGreen Partyin2020are more likely to endorsechangingthe name of theprovince(50 %) than thosewho cast ballotsfor theBCNDP (31%)orthe then-named BC Liberals (26%).
Removing theUnion Jack from theprovincialflagis also contentious. Only 31 %ofBritish Columbians (unchanged)agree with this course of action,while 51 %disagree(up five points)and 19 %(down four points) areundecided.
Once again, theprovince’syoungestadultsfindit easier to imaginea newflag(39 %) than thoseaged35 to 54 (30%)and thoseaged55 andover(24 %)
Almost two-thirds of BritishColumbians(65 %, up threepoints) have no problemwiththe name of the province.Someare stillbotheredbythe “British”part (18%,downone point),the absenceofanacknowledgement to Indigenous Peoples(17 %, down threepoints) or the“Columbia”part(six%,downtwo points). Twogroupsstand outintheir desire fora wayto acknowledgethe province’s Indigenous heritage: BritishColumbiansaged18 to 34 (31%), BC Green votersin2020(30 %) and, unsurprisingly,residents of theprovincewhose descentisIndigenous(53 %). In aseparatequestion, we continue to seemostofthe
(We have good feelings that we live, we work and we play on the lands of the Squamish Nation)
CANSECO: Continued from 12
province’s residents (57 %) agreeing with the decision to rename the Queen Charlotte Islands as Haida Gwaii in 2010 The results were similar in 2022 (58 %) and 2021 (56 %) Only 23 % of British Columbians disagree with the name change (up three points since 2022), a proportion that rises to 29 % among those aged 55 and over, 30 % among
FINALLY, THE ELEPHANT IS OUT OF THE ROOM
Thank you for your editorial titled “Pssst, Woodfibre LNG and FortisBC workers” [published on July 11]. In writing this piece, you have done us a great service in that, finally, the elephant is out of the room about what is really going on with our city council and TUPs regarding Woodfibre LNG.
Everyone knows the elephant is there plain as can be, but no one called it and you have. Thank you.
Sadly, Squamish is a divided community on the Woodfibre LNG issue. Combatants talk down and sometimes vilify those who disagree with their point of view. Many are afraid to speak out for fear of being landed on. This is very sad for us, and I am calling for an end to it We (all of us) must do more to honour democracy and respect that disagreement does take place while exercising way more civility The notion that says “I’m right therefore, you are wrong,” is deadly stuff.
Now that the elephant is truly out there and plain to see, the majority of council are obviously against the Woodfibre LNG project. Fair enough, we can respect that However, what I see at council debates is concern about many solvable side issues connected to the TUP, but never do we hear “It’s not really about those other issues, I just don’t support the project, so I am voting against the TUP.” I am one citizen who could at least respect that position, given how honest it is
To the women’s safety issue. Yes, I am a man, but as a loving father and grandfather of girls, I believe I can offer a comment. I am very protective of them. As a former coroner, I saw firsthand the tragedy associated with family violence here in Squamish. But maligning men simply because they choose remote work in
LETTERS POLICY
men and 36 % among BC Liberal voters in the 2020 provincial election.
The needle has not moved much on changing B.C.’s name or flag, but the province’s youngest adults are decidedly more keen on change than their older counterparts. We can expect reconciliation to be discussed as candidates position themselves in the upcoming provincial ballot A change in the province’s name may
construction camps is simply not right. It might serve council well to ask our RCMP commander to canvas the detachments in six B.C. towns who had camps recently to inquire about their experience It wouldn’t take long
To council, whether you realize this or not, your tactics and distraction issues are really plugging up life at muni hall, given the exorbitant amount of time staff must give to the TUPs. It’s time to say that if you don’t want it then turn it down, and we get on with what may. Otherwise, express your deep displeasure and approve it. Either way, be the leaders who help us bring our town back together rather than driving it further apart. Our division is anything but positive. Thank you.
Peter Gordon Squamish
FOLLOW THE PENSION MONEY
Not many people know exactly what their pension is invested in For example, 11 British Columbia public sector pensions have $8 billion in fossil fuels
Managed by crown corporation British Columbia Investment Management Corporation or BCI, it was quite disturbing to learn the teachers’ pension portion of that is $1.25 Billion.
This would include Pacific Oil and Gas the company behind Woodfibre LNG, who plan to build a pipeline through Squamish and under the Squamish River In fact, the BC Energy Regulator—which seems like just an extension of fossil fuel companies— has issued a permit for Woodfibre LNG to release more than 1,200 litres of contaminated wastewater daily into our environmentally recovered Howe Sound. B.C. teachers are financing this project through our pension investments with Pacific Oil and Gas partners Kunlun Energy, PetroChina and Fortis.
be popular with young adults, but they will indubitably pay more attention to policies related to housing and the economy. Mario Canseco is president of Research Co Results are based on an online study conducted from June 24-26, 2024, among 801 adults in B.C. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in B.C. The margin of error is plus or minus 3.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20
JOIN
US ONLINE
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
What local issue do you want to hear about most in the upcoming provincial election?
Have your say at squamishchief.com
This year marked the hottest in 125,000 years, and while scientists at IPCC are telling governments to transition quickly to renewables with a hard ‘no’ to new fossil fuel developments, the B.C. government and industry continue pushing new LNG projects around the province and our pension investors continue investing in them
Educators rightfully teach about reconciliation, and residential schools and celebrate Orange Shirt Day, but, it’s clear by the pension inventory our oil and gas investments perpetuate ongoing colonial violence against Indigenous people through land theft and human rights violations. But then BCI has no Indigenous Rights policy.
Thirty thousand fracking wells mutilate the boreal forest of B.C., accounting for 20% of climate pollution in this province. With a Level 5 drought our pension is financing five oil companies currently fracking in northern British Columbia; Petrobras, Tourmaline, Chevron, ARC Resources and Canadian Natural Resources. Fracking uses millions of litres of fresh water, leaving contamination and pollution. Even the fossil fuel industry is being warned of the water shortage
The oil and gas sector is in decline, so divesting from fossil fuels and investing in renewables is good for the planet, our investment security and a liveable Earth.
In the words of Riley Hill, written in the BCTF Teacher Magazine on Feb. 24, 2022, it’s time to consider divesting our pensions from fossil fuels—actually, it’s long overdue. Our students need to see the adults creating a world that is safe in every way; a just, equitable place wild with Nature, sweet air to breathe, thriving clear oceans and lush forests—homes for all the animals, including us.
Kim Benson Squamish
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
How impacted were you by the heat last week? (Top 3 answers)
MOST READ STORY
Editorial: Pssst, Woodfibre LNG and FortisBC workers
TOP TIKTOK OF THE WEEK
This week, reporter Indigo Lemay-Conway visited the local SPCA flea market, and got to pet some cats that are up for adoption at the shelter. Check out her video, and many more, on our TikTok channel, @squamishchief
FUN IN THE SUN!: Squamish BMX Racing Club held Gold Cup racing, welcoming racers from far and wide to its revamped track, on July 13 “What an incredible day of racing! A huge shoutout to everyone and a special thanks to all those who travelled to race our new track. We hope you had a blast tearing it up,” the club posted on its Facebook page
PHOTOS BY BRIAN AIKENS
FLORENCIAESPIÑEIRA CLOSES ON E-ENDURO WORLDCUP OVERALLTITLE
Elly Hoskin wins inauguralUCI enduro race in Bellwald,Valais
DAVIDSONG
dsong@wplpmedia.com
Florencia Espiñeirahas been on fire all season long,and anothere-endurogold medalinBellwald, Valais,Switzerland hasgiven them anear-stranglehold on the overall WorldCup (E-EDR)title
TheChilean expatriate from Whistler loggedfourstage wins,three-secondplaces andapairofthirdsacrossthe nine-stage, 76.3-kilometre trial. Despiteover2,670 metres of totalelevation gain,she finished in 54minutes and16.608seconds:nearlyhalfa minuteahead of German silver medallist Raphaela Richter(54:45.900).AliaMarcellini of Italyclocked in forbronze(56:40.142). Espiñeiranow wields acommanding 721-pointleadoverLaura Charles, whosits secondinoverall rankings but laboured to sevenththisweekend.
“I’m happyfor gettingthrough this day; it was very tough, even happiertotakethe win,” said Espiñeirainapress release. “Itwas abig battle with Rapha, so good day! Itookit stagebystage,tryingtogofastinevery single one.Inever stoppedattacking.”
MAIDEN TRIUMPH
In conventional enduro,EllyHoskin prevailedinthe ladies’U21 race to achieve herfirst WorldCup (EDR)breakthrough. Hoskin faltered outofthe gate with an earlyStage Onecrash butpulledittogether
forconsistentbrilliancethe rest of theway. Threerunner-upsfollowedbytwo stagewins buoyed theSquamoliantothe line in 44:27.939, well aheadofVancouver Islander EmmyLan (45:05.405). Simona Kuchynkova from Slovakia held on to her160-point
“Kicks For Kids raises $10,000 for youth soccer across the SeatoSky”
OnJuly 6th, the Howe Sound Soccer Society and Squamish YouthSoccerAssociation hosted the second annual Kicks ForKidsevent at Howe Sound Secondary,marking aremarkable day as the soccer community ralliedtogether for agreatcause. This year surpassed expectations,asthe two top donors of the fundraiser earned spots on team jerseys.The co-ed friendly matchbetween Team Nexii and Team Surerus Murphy kicked offunder sunnyskies while DJ Poundz Entertainment keptthevibelively with music, spectators soughtshade, and kids enjoyed activities hosted byLDS Society.Itwas smiles all around! Afterour match, the RotaryClub of Squamish, supported byvolunteers, hosteda BBQwith food donations provided by Nesters Market and Save-on-Foods. Soon after,a cheque presentation revealed an outstanding total donation of $10,000raised for youth soccer initiatives. These fundswill assist families in enrolling their children in organized soccer programs and provide opportunities foryouth soccer players across theSea To Sky region.
I’mhappy for gettingthrough this day; it wasvery tough,evenhappier to take thewin.
FLORENCIA ESPIÑEIRA
overallleaddespite settling forthird (45:16.736).
“Itfeels exceptional, that wassucha hard day, andIwasn’texpecting it to be my dayat all!”Hoskintold reportersafter anearly 55-kilometre trek on thebike. “Everything came together from acrash in thefirst corner of thefirst stage, Iwas like:‘Iguess I’m shooting forstage wins now.’
“Prioritiesshifted,but it wasagoodday. StageTwo,Iwasn’texpecting to enjoythatas much butitcametogetherreallywellinthe race.That’swhenIwas like:‘maybethisisa good day.’”
TheUCI Mountain Bike WorldSerieswill return Sept.6 to 8for itscampaignfinale afterthe imminent ParisOlympics. Full resultsfromBellwald, Valais areavailable here.
Surerus Murphy
Nexii BuildingSolutions
Shawn Wentworth
CoastAggregates
Whistler Ski Experience
AltaLakeElectric
Alair homes
TheHSSS and SYSA extend aheartfelt thankstothe following local businesses that donated to thefundraiser that made thisevent asuccess:
Bennett LandSurveys
BlackTuskCranes
Squamish Terminals
Airhouse
Coastal Ford
Triton Automotive
Roundhouse Martial Arts &Fitness
Nesters Market
H&HConstruction
Shred Shuttle
Fall Line Fitness
Storm Strength &Performance
Howe Sound Brewing
BackcountryBrewing
Sea To SkyGondola
The Backyard, Marks
Squamish SourceFor Sports
Rental Network Ltd
PHOTOBYJAKE PADDON Elly Hoskin ridesthrough theforestatthe 2023 Canadian Open Enduro
*Photo Credit Stuart Beed Photography
TEIGEN PASCUAL WINS FIRST CAREER BMX NATIONAL TITLE
The Squamolian is coming off three broken collarbones in 18 months
DAVID SONG dsong@wplpmedia.com
Teigen Pascual has had bumps, bruises and more than her fair share of broken bones. She soldiers on regardless, and an inaugural Canadian BMX Championship is fuel for her engine
Pascual got it done on July 6 in VaudreuilSoulanges, Que. She was the only elite woman in the field, with Alberta’s Molly Simpson saving herself for the imminent Paris Olympics As a result, Pascual took gold among a number of junior and U23 girls in a mixed contest.
Thessalie Bruneau struck silver and Victoria Dube went home with bronze
“Obviously pretty happy,” said Pascual about her triumph. “Last year I wasn’t able to race because of my long list of injuries, but finally got to go this time [Nationals] was one of my first races back from my broken collarbone, so just getting back into the racing scene was mainly the goal: have fun and be smooth on the bike
“[The younger girls] definitely put some pressure on me It wasn’t an easy win.”
Pascual currently lives and trains in
Switzerland under Twan van Gendt, the 2019 BMX world champion Her multiple surgeries and rounds of rehab have been tough and she’s still not back at 100 per cent physically, but every milestone helps.
“I really like being in Switzerland,” she said “The people are good The training is obviously what I need right now. Technical, bigger tracks are helpful for me with everything, mentally
Last year I wasn’t able to race because of my long list of injuries, but finally got to go this time.
TEIGEN PASCUA
only athlete to retain the Canadian Elite Men’s title he won in 2023, with other divisions all ushering in a fresh titleholder
That includes Dylan Tremel and Abygale Reeve, two Albertans who made their presence felt as new U23 champs
and physically.”
Although she’ll be forced to cheer Simpson and company on from her couch this summer, Pascual still aims to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
RESULTS ROUNDUP
More than 600 riders saw action at Nationals. Ryan Tougas of Pitt Meadows, B.C. was the
“Out of the gate I was nervous,” said Tremel in a press release. “I knew I had to stay calm and confident. It was crazy to cross the finish line, with all my family and friends there. I have wanted to get the sleeve for the past four years and it means the absolute world to me.”
Reeve told reporters: “I was crying tears of joy. It just means a lot to represent this country and to represent my club in Airdrie and all the kids that I coach back there.”
Despite finishing second behind Pascual, Bruneau earned a ladies’ junior title opposite Andrew Colling on the men’s side
PHOTO BY NAVADA PHOTOGRAPHY
Squamish BMX rider Teigen Pascual.
1. Sounded a bell
Swear at
40. Motors
43. More fortunate 46. Secret writing 50. Wednesday
51 Grouchy person 53. Similar 54. Geese formation
55. Toy for windy days
56. Animal fat
57 Dog’s sound 58. Farmer’s spring need
Fabric pigments
1. Dangerous chance 2. Soreness 3. Electric sign gas 4. Bride’s companion 5. Scoundrel 6. Joins together 7. XVII
8. Perspire
9. Contribute to the kitty
10 Entryway
11. Psychology topics 20 Wails
22 Lamb’s mother
23. Zoo
24. Respectful wonder
25. Bashful
26 Mom and apple
29. Removable cover
30. Tavern brew
31. Farewell, for short
33. Difficult journey
35. “Roses Red”
38. Sea bandit
41 Small cuts
42. Burn with liquid
43. Molten flow
44. Patron
45. Skilled cook
47. Approve
48. Extreme
49 Make meet (get by)
52. Foundation
HOROSCOPE WEEK OF JULY 18, 2024 - JULY 24, 2024
ARIES March 21-April 19
You may need to speak up to be heard among those close to you. Afterward, you may feel tired. Resting and taking a step back this week is a good idea.
TAURUS April 20-May 20
This week, you’ll be flooded with responsibilities. Time will be of the essence Even if you’re on holiday, you must manage your time to ensure you do and see everything you planned.
GEMINI May 21-June 20
A spontaneous getaway or holiday trip will make you very happy. You might even consider returning to school to start a more exciting career.
CANCER June 21-July 22
Strong emotions often indicate a need for change After a deep cleaning and a bit of effort, you’ll reset your priorities and feel happy again.
LEO July 23-Aug. 22
You’re good at negotiating, which will help you professionally and personally. You might find some great dealswhile shopping. You’ll be able to resolve conflicts easily
VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22
You’ll be busy this week, whether at work or home You must pay attention to every detail to keep everyone happy, even if you’re on vacation.
LIBRA Sept. 23-Oct. 22
You’ll be in the spotlight this week People will be interested in everything you say, and you’ll feel proud. Expect applause!
SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21
You’ll spend some of the week improving your home and hosting a family member. This will improve your quality of life and environment.
SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21
You’ll travel far to join your family on a holiday that will meet your expectations. You won’t compromise on anything to maximize your free time
CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19
Although RSVPs to an activity have been slow, everyone will show up. Summer might even inspire you to start a new career
AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb 18
You’ll be in the mood for partying and having fun instead of working. You’ll be promoted, which will make you very happy. You’ll enjoy your holidays to the fullest.
PISCES Feb. 19-March 20
You’ll have a lot to do this week, yet some things may seem confusing. Take some time to think before you act Your overflowing imagination will help you create something amazing.
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
There’sstilltime to applyfor programs launching at CapU Squamish thisfall. Allstudentsare guaranteed aspotinstudenthousing!
READY TO ADVANCE YOUR EDUCATION? Take general upgrading courses at CapUSquamishthis fall! DON’T MISS OUR UPCOMING INFO SESSION: Wednesday, July31,5–7 pm Squamish Welcome Centre 38027 Cleveland Ave. CAPILANOU.CA/ABE
