July 3, 2025 by Pacific Coastal Publications LP

PAGE 6

RESCUE RECOGNITION

Ten Squamish Search and Rescue members awarded King Charles III’s Coronation Medal

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2025

SQUAMISH NATION REGAINS 20,000 HECTARES OF ANCESTRAL LAND

Two decades of planning and negotiations result in an historic land use agreement with the province

INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY/INA PACE news@squamishchief.com

History was made last week with a massive land agreement between the province and Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation).

On June 26, the province announced the signing of a land use agreement (Xay Temíxw) with the Nation that adds 20,000 hectares of legally protected land—equal to about 50 Stanley Parks, or nearly double the land area of Vancouver—to the Nation’s territory

PAGE 7 BONJOUR!

Cameras roll on the first French TV series filmed in B.C.

The land use agreement (X ay Temíxw) adds 20,000 hectares of land to the Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) territory.

Among the officials and attendees at the long-awaited announcement, which took place at the summit of the Sea-to-Sky Gondola, was Nation council chairperson

Khelsilem, councillor and spokesperson

Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship Randene Neill, and B.C.’s Minister of Forests and deputy government house leader Ravi Parmar

KEY POINTS OF THE AGREEMENT

The historic agreement conserves 33 Siiyamin ta Sḵwxwú7mesh (cultural sites) and landmarks, covering approximately 4,250 hectares

This designation preserves these areas for Squamish cultural use, meaning there will be no forestry, third-party land rights or industrial activity on this land

Squamish Nation member and lawyer Aaron Bruce has been working on the project for almost 20 years and explained that the rules around the 33 cultural sites ensure no new

ANNOUNCEMENT: Continued on 2

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tenures will be allowed on the lands.

“If there’s a tenure in the area already, because there are tenures on the land base where we did negotiate these, they would be allowed to run their term out, but then they wouldn’t be able to be renewed unless this Squamish Nation agreed to that,” Bruce told The Squamish Chief.

The agreement further establishes six new special cultural management areas covering approximately 16,000 hectares, including on the west side of Howe Sound, Shannon Basin and Alice Ridge, which would be subject to enhanced cedar and old forest stewardship, as well as other measures that further the Nation’s cultural interests.

This also allows for logging to occur within those areas but under a strict set of rules.

“Just generally, it allows logging to happen in those areas, but there’s a set of special rules, which really focus on the old growth on culturally modified trees, and to avoid those areas within the special cultural management area,” Bruce said

“Rather than just saying a straight ‘no,’ the logging proponent has an opportunity to selectively log within the rules.”

Bruce said that spiritual bathing, harvesting cedar bark plants, or special hunting could be part of the old forest stewardships

‘A HISTORIC ACHIEVEMENT’

At the announcement, Nation councillor Williams said the agreement would provide additional protection and management oversight in key areas across the Squamish territory.

“The agreement also includes provisions for future work on the shoreline and marine areas within our territory. [It is] a major step forward in asserting our Nation’s role as stewards of our lands and ensuring our culture sites and key environmental areas are protected for future generations,” Williams said.

Similarly, Khelsilem said the land agreement marked a historic achievement for the Squamish Nation

“To get to this point, to see that we are, in effect, protecting the equivalent of 50 Stanley Parks through this agreement with the province is a huge, amazing achievement for us,” he said.

“This work is so critical and integral to who we are as Squamish People, because who we are is defined by what we do on our land.”

Khelsilem said the agreement would provide protection for ancient forests that are between 1,400 to 8,000 years old.

“We’re also protecting areas that have important sacred and cultural value to our people, that have been shared and documented by our Elders and our people,” he said

“[These are] places that our ancestors have used for generations, for spiritual training, for cultural training, for the upbringing of our young people, so that they can understand who they are and where they come from.

“We have very few places that we can call our own within our territory to practice our spiritual beliefs and our cultural practices, and we have to stand together as Squamish People to protect those areas, so that our people, not just today but future generations, will be able to experience the gifts that our ancestors had for us.

“To be able to bathe in those creeks, to have a relationship with those mountains, to be in those

forests, to harvest our medicines and our tools and the things that we have sustained us these things are so important to our people.”

Khelsilem also noted that while a portion of the 33 cultural sites and landmarks may be hard to access, this is due to their level of sacredness.

“It’s a truly proud moment for all of us to celebrate that we are protecting our territory through partnership and through a strong relationship, through a recognition of title and rights, and we’re moving past those other eras where we were denied and ignored and erased

PHOTO BY INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The historic agreement conserves 33 Siiyamin ta Sḵwxwú7mesh (cultural sites)

Teen &Adult SummerReading Challenge

ANNOUNCEMENT: Continuedfrom2

from ourterritory,” he said Parmarsaidthe work behind theagreement was to create aplace forthe future Squamish Nation generations.

“You have to thinkseven generationsahead Youhavetothink over 100years ahead. And that’s what we’redoing with this work here today,” theforestryministersaid.

“ByhonouringSquamish Nation’s connection to thelandand applying theirvaluestoforest management,weare charting anew path forwardthatshouldbeacknowledgedand celebrated.

“A path that supports both economic opportunity andprosperityand environmental stewardship forour province anda future rooted inrespect reconciliation andthateconomic prosperity that we’reall workingtowards,” he said.

Parmar also told TheSquamish Chiefthatthe provincial governmentwillcontinuetowork with theSquamish Nation on theagreement for years to come

“Now that this agreementissigned, ourwork doesn’tstop. Ourworkcontinues with the Squamish Nation andall across theprovince,” he said

“We’ve gotincrediblepeopleinthe forest servicewho areworking hard each andevery daytosupport theSquamish Nation on their stewardshipvisions.”

Meanwhile, Neillsaidtimehas shownmany people that nature is oneofgreatestalliesin adapting to climatechangeand supporting a healthycommunity.

“For me,one of themostcompellingaspects of this agreementare theprotections andthe stewardshipofthe riparian andwetland ecosystems as we understand howvital and criticaltheyare to thesuccess andhealthofour province,” shesaid.

“Enhancedstewardship practices, including protecting old growth,ensuringthe availability of forest resourcesfor cultural activities andthe protection andrestoration of oursalmon. Bringing thesalmonhomeagain.The province

To gettothis point, to see... that we are, in effect,protecting theequivalentof50 Stanley Parksthrough this agreement with theprovince is ahuge, amazing achievement for us.

hasalsocommitted to workinginfuturewiththe SquamishNationinleadershiponareas of interest within themarineforeshoreenvironment as well.”

ABRIEF HISTORY

•According to theNation, the Xay Temíxwland useplanwas completedmorethantwo decadesago,in2001, andfinalized forrelease to thepublicbythe Nation councilin2023.

Theplanidentifiedlarge areastobeprotected from forestry activities andoutlineda general landuse planning vision forthe Squamish territory

•In2007, theSquamish Nation andthe provincial governmententered into alanduse planning agreementtoresolve some of the areasfor protection,but severalareas identified by theNationwerenot resolved at that time.

•In2021, theNation’srightsand titlestaff began Phase2negotiationswiththe provincial government to addressthe unresolved areas.

InaPaceisThe Squamish Chief’sLocal JournalismInitiative(LJI) Reporter

This reportingwas produced throughthe LJI, whichsupportsoriginalcivic journalism across Canada

GOTNEWS?

Emailyournewstip or storyideato: jthuncher@squamishchief.com ilemayconway@squamishchief.com inapace@squamishchief.com

SquamishNationNewProtectedAreas

A2025land-use agreementwiththe Provinceadds20,000 hectaresofland

Sḵwxwú7meshTerritory

Morethan6,700squarekilometres oflandformourterritory,from VancouvertoGibsonsLandingand theareanorthofHoweSound.

SíiyaḿiinCulturalSites

Smallerareas,identifiedforcultural andtraditionaluse.Examplesinclude rockshelters,mountaintops,creeks, orareasofold-growthcedar.Receive fullprotectionfromlandandforestry activity.

SpecialCulturalManagementAreas Largerareaswithongoingforestry activity.Managementfocuseson protectingoldgrowthandcedarand importantriparianhabitat.

NationZonesinWhistlerArea AreaswithNationinterest,including WildSpiritPlaces;CallaghanValley; SooValley;Cheakamus;andRainbow Lake.Willbeco-managedbythe SquamishNation,includingBCParks protectedareas.

CrownLandDevelopmentArea AreasofCrownLandidentifiedby SquamishNationashavinghigh valueofinterest.

Amap of thenew Squamish Nation protectedareas

SQUAMISH NATION COUNCIL CHAIRPERSONKHELSILEM

WHAT THE COMMUNITY THINKS ABOUT A NEW SUPPORTIVE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

Locals shared their concerns over the development at a public information session on June 25

INDIGO

LEMAY-CONWAY

ilemayconway@squamishchief.com

Squamish residents are unsure and uneasy about the District’s new proposed supportive housing development.

At a public information session held on June 25 at the Mamquam Elementary School gym, representatives behind the project gathered to answer residents’ burning questions.

A BRIEF HISTORY

The District announced the project on June 5 and revealed that it would be built in partnership with BC Housing, Squamish Community Housing Society and Squamish Helping Hands Society.

The new development is being proposed on District-owned land and would be built at 39900 Government Rd. and Centennial Way.

Built in two separate buildings, the first building would feature approximately 60 to 65 supportive homes, and the second building would feature approximately 100 affordable rental homes

The supportive homes would be operated by the Squamish Helping Hands Society, which would also provide wellness services, support

Baha’i Faith

Friendship

and aid in securing the housing.

Housing availability would be for local community members, including seniors, adults and people with disabilities who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness and need support to maintain their housing.

The proposed 100 affordable rental homes would range in size from studios to two and three-bedroom apartments

It would be owned by Housing Squamish and prioritize moderate-income Squamish residents who are seniors, people with disabilities, and families.

According to the District of Squamish website, the majority of units “would have rents based on 30% of residents’ household incomes as confirmed by annual income testing.”

Funding for this portion of the project has been requested via BC Housing’s Community Housing Fund and is currently not yet confirmed.

According to the 2023 Point in Time homeless count, there were 119 people experiencing homelessness in Squamish Of these, 41% reported insufficient income as their reason for housing loss

Development permit applications for the two buildings are anticipated to be submitted by

SQUAMISH BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY

Hi there! I just know that we are going to be friends.

July 30th -The International Day of Friendship was proclaimed in 2011 by the UN General Assembly with the idea that friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities.

Imagine living in a world where everyone was welcoming, kindness reigned, individuals of all backgrounds came together and people were frank yet respectful in their views. What if it was as simple as us treating each other as friends. Maybe we should try it. What attributes are needed to create friendships? Here are three to consider. I’m sure you can come up with some more.

Kindness: can give you the ability to bring people together and to put them at ease. It is a generosity of spirit that attracts the hearts. It is surprising how powerful our words can be. Kind words allow others to listen.

“A kindly tongue is the lodestone of the hearts of men. It is the bread of the spirit, it clotheth the words with meaning, it is the fountain of the light of wisdom and understanding.” – Baha’u’llah Openess: Even before we open our mouths – a smile is the universal language of friendliness. It says – I see you. I am open to meeting you. Openess implies curiosity about others and willingness to learn about new ideas.

Love: fosters connection that goes beyond the superficial. It is the act of truly caring about others. This may seem really hard but when you consider we are all living on this small fragile planet – a speck in the cosmos, you realize that we are all connected and truly interdependent on each other. Let us show solidarity with our fellow human beings.

“Do not be content with showing friendship in words alone, let your heart burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path 'Abdu'l-Bahá.”

Visit www.squamishbahais.com/blog

summer 2025, with site preparation expected to begin in winter 2025/26.

LOCAL CONCERN

The Squamish Chief spoke to residents at the public information session to hear how they felt about the development.

One local mother said she had a number of concerns with the project.

“[For us], we’re concerned about what this is going to look like for safety along the dike there because we take our kids there and our dogs,” she said.

“The first couple of months there will also likely be a lot of ambulance and police call outs while things stabilize and it’s already so loud back there.

“If this [development] is actually happening, my husband and I think we’re going to need to move.”

The mother also said there was no way local councillors would support the development if it was happening near their homes.

“I’d love to know where the mayor lives and some of the other councillors because they would not want this in their backyard,” she said

Other locals shared that they felt as though any opinions they shared with the District would be irrelevant

“They don’t listen to the community. No matter what it is, we can have all the involvement that they’ll offer, but it goes nowhere,” one woman said

“This is an information session, they don’t care about our feedback so it doesn’t matter what we say.”

When asked if there was anything the District or project partners could do to make the development supportable, one group of locals answered bluntly, ‘No.’

“There’s absolutely nothing the District could do to make this a project I’d support, the location is just bad,” one said.

There were a few people who said they would support the project’s good intentions, but claimed that it was being poorly executed

A MESSAGE TO SHARE

Squamish Helping Hands executive director Lori Pyne said that there are no buildings which offer the services the project is proposing, anywhere between North Vancouver and Lillooet.

“So there’s a whole spectrum of people who do not have access to services like this,” she said One common misconception she wanted to address with locals is that the supportive housing building would not offer drop-in services.

“This is for people that use substances and people that are disabled and seniors. So it’s people that can live independently that need support to maintain their housing, to keep them housed,” Pyne said.

“The biggest difference between this and

Under One Roof is there’s no drop-in services in this building. So there’s no food bank, there’s no drop-in showers, there’s no drop-in laundry, there’s no drop-in hot food, there’s no drop-in primary care

“Those are the resources that the transient people and people living outside need access to but unfortunately or fortunately, they’re not going to be at this building.”

She also reaffirmed that the buildings would add a “crucial piece” to the housing continuum in the Sea to Sky Corridor

“It just simply doesn’t exist yet, and it’s four years away still. But we needed this yesterday,” she said

Squamish Community Housing Society (SCHS) executive director Sarah Ellis told The Squamish Chief that affordable housing is the number one concern for people in the community.

“The biggest thing that we’re hearing from folks with the affordable building … which is not currently funded … is that they recognize how needed it is and they are excited,” she said. Ellis said the SCHS “really wants to be good neighbours”.

“We really see ourselves as being a presence and a neighbour in this community for the next 60 to 100 years for the life of the building,” she said

“So we are really invested in maintaining good relationships and making sure the people living in our building are being good neighbours to the people living here already.”

On the supportive housing building, Ellis noted that it was a “specialized building with a unique population” so all partners involved in the project were adamant on being transparent and open with the public about what will happen there.

“I think we can take what we’re hearing and use it to inform how we approach the way we operate both of the buildings,” she said.

“There’s such a deep need for supportive housing in this community. We’re trying to create that circle of housing that really doesn’t exist right now.”

For more information on the project, visit the District of Squamish website.

PHOTO BY INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The project will provide around 165 new homes.

SLRD GREENLIGHTS SOUTH BRITANNIA SURF PARK AND MASTERPLANNED COMMUNITY AFTER YEARS-LONG REVIEW

Phase 1 of the project, which includes the surf park, is expected to begin in 2026 and be complete in 2029

LUKE FAULKS

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) has officially approved the rezoning and development agreement for the South Britannia master-planned community, a mixed-use neighbourhood project anchored by a first-in-B.C surf park

During its May 28 meeting, the SLRD Board gave the Tiger Bay corporation’s development its fourth and final reading, concluding a process that began more than a decade ago and formally launched in 2019 with the introduction of the Wavegarden surf park concept.

“South Britannia will offer a world-class surf experience, tourism accommodations and new commercial spaces that will create economic opportunities and outdoor adventure amenities,” said Tony Petricevic, Tiger Bay’s head of development, in a June 25 press release.

The approved plan paves the way for a phased development that includes the surf park, a skate park and pump track, 20 surf cabins, and, eventually, up to 1,050 residential units— including 150 affordable housing units—along with parks, a community centre and a maximum of 190 tourism accommodation units.

DISCHARGING AMENITIES

At the May 28 meeting, Squamish director Jenna Stoner raised concerns over the development agreement’s reliance on external agency approvals for key public amenities.

In particular, the agreement as originally presented on May 28 allows the developer to be “relieved of its obligation” to build certain amenities—like wetland enhancements and waterfront walkways—if required approvals from third parties such as the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Transportation or CN Rail are not obtained

“This language is not in protection of [the SLRD], this board or the future community,” Stoner said during the meeting. “Why would we grant them the discharge if [a ministry] decides the plan is not supportable?”

SLRD contract planner Eric Vance acknowledged the worry but said this approach is typical in development agreements where multiple external agencies are involved

“With all those parties, there’s been discussion over a number of years… but all those agencies have said, ‘Look, we’re generally comfortable with where this is going, but in terms of formal approvals, formal review of the more detailed work, that cannot happen till after the bylaws are approved.’ So there’s no reason to believe that any of these agencies will not follow through,” he explained to the board. “But we can’t, in a development agreement, guarantee that they will approve all these things.”

The final development agreement passed by the Board was amended to remove the

A LONG ROAD TO APPROVAL

The South Britannia project has undergone years of planning, public engagement, and environmental review Originally proposed as a residential development, the project gained momentum in 2019 when the Wavegarden surf park was added as a central feature. The surf park is designed to accommodate up to 80 surfers at a time across a six-acre lagoon.

The SLRD gave the project third reading in December 2023, pending Ministry of Transportation approval, which has since been granted.

SLRD director of planning and development Kim Needham noted May 2025 marked 18 months since that third reading. Under the SLRD’s development protocol, if a bylaw is not adopted during that 18-month window, “that bylaw is null and void.”

Tiger Bay has said the project will prioritize outdoor recreation, with a community-oriented commercial district, pedestrian connections and parks at Minaty Bay and throughout the development area

Phase 1 of the project, which includes the surf park, surf centre with various surfing amenities, 20 surf cabins, and the skate park and pump track, is expected to begin in 2026 and be complete in 2029

conditional discharge of Tiger Bay’s responsibility to deliver the promised amenities. If third-party certification from other governments fails to materialize, the development agreement will come back before the SLRD.

The passed agreement also added “cooking” as part of a list of excluded uses under the new development’s prohibition on fossil fuels and natural gas infrastructure, alongside heating, cooling and domestic hot water.

OPPOSITION REMAINS

Squamish director Chris Pettingill expressed concerns about a gap in amenities that might lead to new South Britannia residents putting pressure on Squamish services He noted the development agreement doesn’t have any provisions to offset that increased demand on the District

Another implication of that lack of amenities, said Pettingill, is that South Britannia risks becoming a car-centric community where residents have to travel for work and other daily needs—contributing to emissions and traffic congestion on Highway 99

“I think we are designing a car-dependent community at a time when that’s exactly what we’re trying not to do,” he told the board. “I would have needed to see more employment space in the plans, or a broader plan that includes employment space that matches the housing so we aren’t forcing people to commute to the city.”

The board passed the necessary re-zoning and development agreement, 10-1, with Pettingill the only holdout.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TIGER BAY DEVELOPMENT CORP

The land at the centre of a rezoning application is located about 14 kilometres south of Squamish, B.C.

10SQUAMISHSAR MEMBERSRECEIVE CORONATION MEDALS

‘I thinkthatthese medals really exemplifythe dedication of ourmembers andreallyreflect such astrongsense of community that we have within ourteam,’the SSAR presidentsaid

INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY

ilemayconway@squamishchief.com

Ifyou’relostorinjured in thebackcountry, they’lldoeverythingtheycan to come and rescue you.

It’s what everyrecreator in Squamish knows about thelocal Search andRescue(SSAR)team andaservice that no onetakes forgranted.

Earlierthismonth,10local SSAR volunteers were reminded of theirimmense valuetothe communityafter they were awarded theKing CharlesIII’s Coronation Medal.

Thirtythousandmedals were awardedto commemoratethe Coronation of HisMajesty King CharlesIII as King of Canada, 17 of which went to SeatoSky locals

The10SSARmembers awardedthe medals were;Tyler Duncan,LandonJames,William (BJ) Chute, John Howe,SusanNicholson,Craig Oliver,Raz Peel,David Thanh, John Willcox andDouglas Woods.

“It’sprettyspectacular.It’squite humbling to volunteerona team with thesefolks.Every day, I’mremindedhow accomplished everybodyis andyet howsoftspokenand humble theyare,”

SSAR presidentCam Stuart told TheSquamish Chief.

“Itspeaksvolumes to theteam, to have been awarded10of17ofthose.It’sjustareallygreat recognitionofpublicservice andvolunteers andsortofgivingbacktothe community.”

Stuartsaidthe 10 volunteers were allpartof theiractivemembers category

“I believeall of themembers that were awardedthe medalare or were on ouractive membership.Sothese arethe folksthatare out andinthe field, supporting thepeoplethat we’researching fororrescuingday to day,”he said.

Collectively,the groupof awardwinners has volunteered 167years of servicetoSSAR.

“They’re contributing aton across theentire organization. So it canbeanythingfrom stocking theshelves to making sure that we’ve gotwater forvolunteerstogoout,tocarrying stretchers down thetrail,tohanging outof helicopters, to showinguponThursday evenings foraboard meetingand kind of shapingthe society,”Stuartsaid.

“Honestly, it’s arealprivilege to volunteer alongsidethese folks. AndI thinkthatthese medals really exemplify thededicationofour membersand really reflectsuchastrongsense ofcommunitythatwehavewithinour team, butalsojustinSquamish in general.”

THEDECISIONPROCESS

Decidingwho wouldbeawarded the17 medals within theSea to SkyregionfelltoWest Vancouver–Sunshine Coast–SeatoSky Country

This medal celebrates the values of dedication, service, and community— qualitiesthatwere reflectedinevery single nomination we received.

MP PATRICKWEILER

MP PatrickWeiler.

Accordingtothe Government of Canada website, candidates forthe medal“must have made asignificant contribution to Canada or to aparticularprovince, territory, region or communityofCanada, or have made an outstandingachievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.”

Weiler said that he wasincrediblyproud to recognizethe individualswithinthe riding whowerechosenfor amedal.

“Thismedalcelebratesthe values of dedication,service,and community—qualities that were reflectedinevery single nomination we received,” Weiler said

“Choosingjust17recipientswas no easy task as everynomination reflecteddeepcommitment andremarkablecontributions.All the submissionswereceivedtoldstories of someonemakingadifferenceinareas ranging from health care to thearts, from philanthropy to public service.”

He notedthathewas especially proudto highlightthe 10 SSAR memberswho received themedals.

“Out of more than 100activevolunteers, theseindividuals stood outfor thenumberof emergencyresponses they’veattendedand the depthoftheir commitment toservice,” he said.

“Whether it’s arescueinthe backcountryor volunteering in otherpartsofthe community, theseare people whoshowupwhenitmatters most and ofteninincrediblychallenging conditions.

“Recognizing them is notjustfitting,it’s deeply deserved.We’re luckytoliveinaplace wheresomanypeoplestepuptoserve whetherinpublichealth, thearts, education, or search andrescue. TheCoronationMedalis acelebration of that spirit.”

Winnerswillbeawarded theirphysical medalinSeptember at an official ceremony to be determined at alater date.

Visitthe Squamish Search andRescue websitetolearn more aboutwhatthe organization does andhow youcan become avolunteer.

ALL ABOUT ‘SURF BAY, CÔTE OUEST’: THE FIRST FRANCOPHONE TV SERIES FILMED IN B.C.

Filming kicked off in May, along the Sea to Sky and in Tofino

INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY

ilemayconway@squamishchief.com

The Sea to Sky and B.C. as a whole are known for being a hub for film and TV productions. Now, the first francophone series is ready to make its mark in history. Cameras began rolling May 26 for the first locally created French language drama series ever filmed in British Columbia Shot between Britannia Beach, Vancouver and Tofino, Surf Bay, côte Ouest combines both French and English to create a coming-of-age series about surfing, environmental activism and family drama.

On June 25, The Squamish Chief took a tour of the Britannia Beach set to find out all the details about the milestone production.

A MARK IN HISTORY

Despite being a gloomy day outside a local Britannia Beach home—which acts as the backdrop for the day’s shoot—viewers would be none the wiser thanks to the master of camera angles Camille Felton’s character Margot Swann

takes a swing against a punching bag in a scene with Henri Picard, who plays Noah (Margot’s brother)

Both French and English can be heard amongst the multicultural crew and cast, who are working together to create the 10 episodes. The production is created by Unis TV—a French language channel which highlights

francophone communities outside Quebec and is made in collaboration with Crave.

“[We’ve got] a mix of French people from around Canada,” Unis TV director of content Jérôme Hellio told The Squamish Chief.

“You know, the director [Dominic Desjardins] is from Ontario, the producers [Magali GillonKrizaj and Anthony Cauchy] are from here in

B.C., and some of the actors are from Quebec. It’s from all around Canada, and that’s what we’re proud of, because it’s very unique

“It’s the perfect example that we can work together in French and tell stories that interest people from B.C. to New Brunswick.”

FRANCOPHONE: Continued on 9

PHOTOS BY SACHA VANHECKE

The new TV series is ﬁlmed in Britannia Beach, Vancouver and Toﬁno.

2026 Permissive Tax Exemption Applications

Permissive Tax Exemptions are a method that the District of Squamish, supported by Council, may support voluntary non-profit organizations by exempting land or improvements or both, from taxation under Section 224 of the Community Charter.

The District of Squamish is now accepting applications for Permissive Tax Exemptions Section 224 of the Community Charter and the requirements of the District of Squamish Permissive Tax Exemption policy apply. If your organization can demonstrate eligibility you are welcome to apply for an exemption

The application and policy are available online. The deadline to apply is July 31, 2025, for exemptions beginning for the 2026 taxation year

For more information, please contact us at 604-892-5217.

squamish.ca/grants

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN RECREATION AND CULTURE

Field Allocation Meeting

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Please contact Recreation and Culture at 604-898-3604 with any questions.

Infrastructure Upgrades

Installation work continues on a watermain between Bill’s Place and Highlands Way South. Annual road painting refresh program is underway. Crews will be working at night to limit traffic impacts squamish.ca/building-our-future

Business Opportunities

Requests for Proposals

• Loggers East Storm Sewer Construction Requests for Quotations

• Crosswalk Installations & Safety Upgrades

• Madill Forcemain Replacement Construction squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

Stage 1 Outdoor Water Use Restrictions remain in effect. squamish.ca/water

During Stage 1, lawn watering with a sprinkler is allowed two days per week from 4–10 am and 7–10 pm based on street address

• Odd numbered addresses can water on Thursdays and Sundays.

• Even numbered addresses can water on Wednesdays and Saturdays

Check out the pool schedule:

squamish.ca/rec/pool

The 55 Activity Centre Summer Hours

Monday to Friday: 9 am–4 pm

Saturday, Sunday: Closed

i-Chi Inspired Session in the Park with Kriszti (19+yrs)

Mondays, 6–7 pm at 40515 Park Crescent, Squamish

Come rain or shine, this tai chi inspired fitness program in the park includes soft and flowing movements designed to enhance balance, coordination and concentration. Each session begins with an easy warm up and deep breathing practice ncorporating easy to memorize movements. vanced registration is required

Know Before You Go Summer vacation is here! Make sure you check online for the latest information on programs and schedules

squamish.ca/rec

Summer Camp:

Let’s Get Messy (51/2–7yrs) July 14–18

This week is all about the wild and wacky world of art and science!

We will be doing a variety of fun experiments, art projects and other activities! Come prepared to get messy.

Don’t forget your running shoes for active fun as well

This camp includes a visit to Ground Up for indoor rock climbing and a visit from a local pottery artist.

AccordingtoStatisticsCanada, thereare over 300,000 people whospeak French across B.C. Unis TV presidentand CEOYannPaquetsaid that thefrancophoneseriesaimstooffer representation of that largecommunity within theprovince.

“There arepeoplespeakingFrencheverywhere in Canada.There is ahugecommunity,of course, in Quebec,ahugecommunity in Ontario. ButB.C.has ahugecommunity as well,” Paquetsaid.

“B.C.isanimportant French-speaking community, so we need to be able to reflectthe community, theculture and thelanguage…and to be able to [do] that,weneedtobeabletohave TV shows[like Surf Bay, côte Ouest]because it’s such an importantculturalproduct

“I thinkalot of people aregoing to be touched by it.”

THESHOW

Accordingtoapress releasefromUnisTV, SurfBay,côteOuest followsthe journeyof Margot Swann, abeloved professional surfer deeply attached to herhometownofSurfBay.

When tourismdevelopment threatensan ancientforest, shetakes astand—risking her career andclashingwithher community, includingher ownfamily. As tensions rise, Margot must face thewaves,asthe stormshe hasstirred up couldsweep away herOlympic dream.

“Margotisayoung surfingprodigy with a strongactivistspirit. Sheloves nature andshe really wantstoprotect it at allcosts,” Felton said abouther character.

“The oceanisher safe space, andshe will discover that theforestisanother kind of safe space forher as well during thestory.” Felton said that theshowbegan filmingin Tofino whereshe learnedtosurffor thefirst time

“It’smyfirst time in B.C.,and oh my god, Ijust

love it so much.There’s just aspirithere, the good energy,a zenenergythatpeoplehave. I don’t know,maybe it’s becausenatureisso luxuriousand big,”she said.

“Mia [Wistaff,who playsZoelie] andI arrived acoupledaysbeforethe actual shootstarted, and we hadsomesurflessons,and we learned howtosit on ashortboard

“Learningjusttosit on theboard wasa whole thing, becausethe boarddoesnot float, so you have to stay balanced.Itwas really hard,but onceyou getit, youcan do it alloverand over again.It’slikeridingabike.”

ShesaidTofino’slandscape allowedher to becomeintouch with hercharacter

“I trulybecameMargotinTofino.”

Wistaffisthe only main charactertohave visitedB.C.before(shecurrently livesin Vancouverbut is from Montreal originally).

like Tofino wasadream come true.

“I’m stillpinchingmyself. This is definitely my biggestjob I’ve bookedand Ilovemy charactersomuch. Shefeels like arealperson to me.And I’mjustsohappy to be part of this project,”she said.

It wasthe oceanand themountains that struck Picard themostwhenhearrived in B.C. from Montreal forthe shoot.

“WhenIheard that we were shooting here,I wassoexcited to come andsee themountains, thebeach andthe forest,” he said

“For gettingintothe storyand thecharacters, that helpssomuch. On thefirst day, we started with allthe beachstuff andofcourse, it was demanding, becausethe lightisalways changing,the weatherand everything.But I wasamazed, lookingatthe sea, theemotions just came so naturally.”

Hisonlyregretwhile filmingisnot taking advantageofthe surf lessonsinTofino.

“I will surely be coming back here andwillbe taking asurflesson,”hesaidwithalaugh.

On howit feelstobeapartofthe first francophoneproductioninB.C., Felton said that it wasa“pinchme” moment.

“I love themulticultural aspectsofthe show.I think that’s so important, becauseSurfBay is anEnglish community, butthenthe main characters arefrancophones,” shesaid.

“SoIthink that’s really cool to show on screen,and Ihopethatboththe Englishand the French speakers aregoing to want to watchit andwanttosee that dynamic.”

As asurflover herself, Wistaffsaidthat gettingtocombine acting andsurfing in aplace

“It’samazing.Ifeellikethe French language is so much more than just somethingthat’sin France or in Quebec,” shesaid.

“I just hope that it’s goingtoopensomedoors andinspire othercreatorstodomoreFrench francophoneprojectshere, becauseB.C.has so much to offer.”

Thepremiereof Surf Bay, côte Ouest is scheduledonTV5Unis forspringof2026witha broadcastonCrave scheduledfor 2027

PHOTOBYSACHA VANHECKE

‘SurfBay côte Ouest’ is thefirst francophoneTVshowfilmedinB.C.

NoticeofBylawReadings –Tuesday, July15, 2025, at 6p.m.

Council Chambers at Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish,B.C.orelectronically at squamish.civicweb.net

NoticeOfBylawReadings forZoning Amendment

DistrictofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011 AmendmentBylaw(2025 Zoning BylawUpdate) No.3177,2025

AFFECTED LANDS

Properties currently zonedR-2,R-3, RL-1, RL-2, AGRI1, C-4, I-8and MUD-1.

PROPOSED BYLAWAMENDMENT

Thepurposeofthe proposed Bylawistomake amendmentsto the zoning bylawtoaddress minor errorand inconsistencies,improve the clarityand functionalityofthe bylawand alignthe bylawwith other land-use relatedDistrictpolicies andbylaws

BYLAW READINGS

Consideration of first,secondand third readings of the proposed Bylawwill be at the RegularCouncil meetingonJuly15, 2025inCouncilChambers at Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish,B.C

NoticeOfBylawReadings forZoningAmendment

DistrictofSquamish Zoning Bylaw2200, 2011 AmendmentBylaw(38320 WestwayAve) No.3145, 2025

AFFECTED LANDS

38320Westway Avenue,Squamish, B.C.

PROPOSED BYLAWAMENDMENT

The purposeofthe proposedBylaw is to rezone the property from Residential 1(R-1) to aComprehensive DevelopmentZoneinorder to convertthe existingresidencetoadedicatedcommercialchild care facility.A parking reduction of 3spaces forthe child care facilityisalsoproposed.

BYLAW READINGS

Consideration of first,secondand third readings of the proposed Bylawwill be at the RegularCouncil meeting onJuly15, 2025, in Council Chambers at Municipal Hall, 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, B.C.

LOCATION MAP

Attend the Meeting In-person at CouncilChambersatMunicipal Hall, 37955SecondAvenue, Squamish, B.C. or online at: squamish.ca/live-meetings

No Public Hearing

In accordancewith Provincial legislation,Section 464(2)ofthe Local GovernmentAct,local governmentsare not requiredtohold public hearings relatedtorezoning applicationsthatare consistent with the local government’s OfficialCommunity Plan (OCP).

Howtoviewthe proposed bylaws

A copy of the proposedbylaws andrelated information thathas beenormay be considered by Council maybe inspectedonline at squamish.ca/showcase or inperson at Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia,from July 3, 2025,toJuly 15,2025, between8:30a.m. and4:30p.m.,Monday through Friday.

Enquiries regarding the proposed amendmentbylawmay be made to thePlanning Departmentat 604-815-5002 or by emailto planning@squamish.ca

This is the firstoftwo notices,dated this 3day of July,2025,atSquamish, British Columbia

THEBIG WEEKEND: SQUAMISH ARTS FESTIVAL,MURAL WALK

FESTIVAL ANDOPENSTREETDAY JOIN FORCES

Thethree events will be held from July 25 to 27 aspartof TheBig Weekend, amegafestivalindowntownSquamish

WILL JOHNSON news@squamishchief.com

It’skindoflikeamarriage.

This year theSquamish Arts Festival made thedecisiontoteamupwiththe Downtown Squamish Business ImprovementAssociation to bringtogetherthree much-loved festivalsover oneweekend.

Forthe firsttime, theSquamishArtsFestival, MuralWalkFestivaland Open Street Daywillbe joiningforcesfor TheBig Weekendand it runs from July 25 to 27

That meansthatwhile ClevelandAvenuewill be shut down to traffic, people will wander from Junction Park,pastbusinessesactivatingtheir outdoorspaces, andmuralists will be in the midst of creating vibrantworks of large-scaleart thatwillbeproudly displayedfor many yearsto come

“All threeofthese events arewonderful in their own right, butthisyearwefelttheycould combineintoanartsand cultureextravaganza that wouldbring more exposure to theartists andbeanexcitingcommunity event,”Squamish Arts executivedirectorCleaYoung said “We’re very excitedtosee howall these events come together.”

ARTS GALORE

TheSquamish Arts Festival portionofthe Big WeekendwillbeheldinJunctionParkonJuly

26,likeinyears past,but is designed in such a waythatvisitorscan fluidlycomeand go

There will be arts andcraftsfor kids,food trucks anddance parties.

“Throughoutthe daywe’ll have differentacts, startingat 10 a.m. Children’s performerIra Pettle will do ashow, there’ssomemarimba,pluswe’ll have abouteight to 10 youthperformersfromthe SarahMcLachlan School of Music,”Young said.

“Thenwehavethe Zummersout of Pemberton, whorecentlywon theBattleofthe Bands at theBrackendale ArtGallery,and local favourites,the Hair Farmers.”

Kids will be able to gettheir facespainted, therewillbearoaming fairy, andaninstallation called Sunshine.Workshops will be held outofa little bowler studio,sopeoplecan trytheir hand at usingaceramic wheel.

“There will be lotsofthingsfor people to just happenuponand trytheir hand at,” Youngsaid.

Last year theevent attractedapproximately 2,000people, butwiththe additional infusion of passersbyfromThe BigWeekend,theybelieve that number couldballoon to 3,000thisyear.

MURALTIME

Have youeverseena muralcreated rightin frontofyou?

TheDowntownSquamishBIA MuralWalkis absolutelyfree, andgives artaficionados the

This projectincludesthe construction of anew seadikewhich wasidentified in theDistrict’sIntegratedFlood Hazard Management Plan as apriorityto meet Provincial standardsfor protecting thecommunity from coastal flood hazards. Alongwiththe newdikeand waterfront walkway, theproject includes an integrated habitatenhancementareaand theinstallation of apublic water access fornon-motorized watercraft.Constructionisplannedtobegin in mid-July 2025 andbecompleted in Summer2026.

Impactsinclude:

•Closure of theparkincluding thewater access,watercraftstorage facilityand Main Street parkingarea.

•Alternate public wateraccessisavailableatSp’akw’us FeatherPark.

•Constructionnoise andvibration due constructionactivitiesincluding pile drivingand ground densificationwork.

•Short-termtrafficdisruptions on Loggers Lane

Find more informationat squamish.ca/xwunekw-park-sea-dike

Notice of Leaseand ProvisionOfAssistance

What’s Proposed:Five-year leasewithSquamishClimateAction Networkfor thecommercialkitchen in The55ActivityCentre locatedat1201 Village Green Way.

TheDistrictofSquamish(“District”)herebygives notice pursuant to Section26 of theCommunity Charterthatthe District intends to granta five-yearlease to theSquamishClimateActionNetwork,a nonprofitsociety (the “Society”) for thepurpose of operatinga commercialkitchen that food businessescan rent to processand storefood forpublic consumption, foranapproximately950ft2 (commercialkitchen andwashroom)ofThe 55 Activity Centre,witha legaldescription of PID: 027-861-147 AirSpace Parcel 1District Lot4261 Group 1New WestminsterAir SpacePlanBCP40449, anda civicaddress of 1201 Village Green Way, Squamish,British Columbia fora $1 annual leasefee.The lease shallbemadeeffective as of July 1, 2025, andshall terminateonJune30, 2030.

TheDistrictintends to provideassistance to theSociety pursuant to Section24ofthe Community Charterbyproviding thelease forlessthanits market value.

Live painting at theSquamish Arts Festival in 2024

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PUBLISHER SARAHSTROTHER sstrother@wplpmedia.com

TheSquamishChief is amemberof theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependentorganization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practicesand ethica behaviour.Ifyou have concerns about editorialcontent,please contactEditorJenniferThuncherat jthuncher@squamishchief.com.Ifyou 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

ENJOYSUMMER, SAFELY!

The warmer weather is here to stay, which means more people arefloodingtoSquamish totakepartinthe plethora of recreation activitiesonoffer here.

From climbing theendless rock faces, tohiking and biking thelarge trailsystem, to paddlingalong thewaters of themanylakes andriver systems, Squamish really hasitall

Butthe importance of recreating safely cannot be stressed enough

TheSea to SkyRCMP–Squamish,Districtof Squamish andSquamishSearchand Rescue all issued reminderstoresidents andvisitorsto prioritize safety whileenjoyingthe outdoors

“Squamishisknown forits outdoorrecreation activities, andevery year thousandsventure into the area’s stunning naturallandscapes. Whilethese activitiesofferincredibleexperiences,theyalso comewithrisks especially when adventurersare unpreparedoroverconfident,” readsapress release fromthe Seato SkyRCMP.

In thepress release, MayorArmand Hurfordsaid the District always encourages residentsand visitorstoenjoy theoutdoorssafely, butalso smartly too.

“Wecan’t stress enough to always be prepared andapproachthe area youare visiting with the utmost cautionand preparationnomatterwhat your outdoorskill level is,orhow popularthe area is,orevenhow closetotownthe area is,” he said.

“If youare visiting or recreating in anylocation outdoors;learn therisks,planahead,prepare,be safe, andcomehome.”

So what aresomesafetytipsyou canlearn before headingout on your outdooradventure?

1. Know Before YouGo: Checkweather andtrail conditions, andensureyourplanned route matchesyourskill andfitness level.

2. Tell Someone: Always leavea trip plan with a friend or familymember, includingyourroute and estimatedreturntime.

3. Pack Smart: Bringessentialssuchasamap,GPS or compass, flashlight,food, water, firstaid kit, extra clothing,and emergency supplies.

4. Dressfor Conditions:Weather canchange quickly in themountains.Dress in layersand bringwaterproofgear.

5. Stay Connected: Cell coverageislimited in some areas. Consider carrying asatellite communication device like an InReachorSPOT.

6. Respectthe Environment: Follow LeaveNoTrace principlesand be bear aware.

7. If you’re lost,injured,orstuck—staywhere you areand don’ttry to self-rescue. LetSquamish Searchand Rescue come to you! By taking simpleprecautions,everyonecan enjoy thebeautythatSquamishhas to offer, andmakeit homesafelyatthe endofthe day.

EBYCONTORTSHIS PIPELINE MESSAGINGONCEAGAIN

“It’snot my jobtotellPremier [Danielle] Smiththat hervisionfor aNorth Coastpipelineismany, many yearsoff andthere’s no proponentatthispoint,” he said

Or when hisenergyminister, Adrian Dix, said “no oneisgoing to buildit.”

The torturous, windingpositionofthe BC NDP governmenton anew oilpipelinehas twistedyet again afterPremier DavidEby announcedhis government wouldnot oppose anew privatelybacked project from Albertatothe province’s north coast.

B.C.’s premierdid acircuit of national mediashows over theweekend,seeking to downplay,clarify and tweak previous comments he’s made in opposition to a new Alberta-B.C. pipeline

“Sometimes Ifeellikethe mediaisgathering around and chanting fight, fight, fightbetween us andAlberta right now,”Eby told CTVhostVassy Kapelos.

“There’s no fightherenow.”

He bristled when askedbyCBC’s Rosemary Barton if there wasaway to make apipelinepalatable.

“I thinkit’sasimplificationand notquite righttosay I’vesaidno,”saidEby.

Stupid media. Always pushingsweet,innocent politiciansaround, egging on imaginaryconflicts. Wherever do thosemouth-breathing Neanderthals in theMSM getsuchanideathatB.C.opposed an oil pipeline?

Certainlynot last month, when Ebyemerged from a meeting of WesternpremiersinYellowknife to tell B.C. mediawhere he stood on anew pipeline.

“No, we’reopposed,” he said.

Or during histrade missiontoAsiainearly June.

“It’snot an economic project. It hashighriskand it’s disruptive.And in my view it won’thappen.”

So it was, perhaps, with abit of surprise that Eby’s comments to Barton on CBCseemedtogoina differentdirection

“We’ve supportedAlberta,Manitoba, Saskatchewan, with atrade corridor from Manitoba rightthrough to Prince Rupert,” said Eby. “Itcould includeenergy projects.Itcould potentiallyinclude aheavy oil pipeline project.”

That’s aboutasclose as thepremier hasevercometo saying he couldsupport anew pipeline

Mostly hisgovernmenthas used the“crossthat bridge when we gettoit” metaphor,toput offtakinga solidposition.

ButB.C.isunder increasing pressure from Prime Minister Mark Carney,who supports theideabut said he won’tforce it on anyprovince, to at leastappear open to areasonableproposal.

Meanwhile,Alberta PremierDanielleSmith is searchingout privatesectorpartnerswho mightbe interested in building such aproject.

“I’vesaidveryclearly to PremierSmith that if she’s able to arrangethat, then we’rehappy to sitdownwith Albertaand have that conversation with them about what that wouldlooklike,”Eby told CTV.

VIEWS: Continuedon13

PROVINCIAL VIEWS ROBSHAW

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)

VIEWS: Continued from 12

“But let’s be honest with ourselves. We have a $36 billion [Trans Mountain] pipeline that’s publicly owned, the federal government cannot sell. It’s not even operating at capacity.

“There is not a world in which that pipeline across the north happens without significant federal subsidy. If the premier of Alberta is able to pull that off, I say more power to her.”

Eby said he opposes Ottawa spending any federal funds to subsidize a new pipeline, as well as lifting the tanker moratorium off B.C.’s coast. Dix has said he’d prefer to see TMX first undertake a $4-billion upgrade to the line that could add another 250,000 barrels per day, on top of the 590,000 barrels from when TMX was twinned.

“I don’t support tens of billions of dollars in federal subsidy for a brand-new pipeline

across the north, getting rid of the tanker ban off the north coast, when we have major projects in B.C. and in Alberta with private companies that are advancing them, that are ready to work, ready to dig, ready to employ people, ready to diversify our trade relationships,” Eby said to Kapelos on CTV.

“Why would we prioritize a massive public spend like that when more limited public spend could deliver additional capacity through the pipeline we already own, and so many projects that are ready to go with actual proponents and able to deliver in a short period of time?”

Kapelos pushed back, saying she covered the B.C. government’s opposition to Northern Gateway and Trans Mountain (during the latter of which Eby was attorney general mounting legal challenges to the pipeline). She questioned why Eby so steadfastly assumed a new pipeline would require federal subsidies, and why he

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

HIKE FOR HOSPICE

On behalf of the Sea to Sky Hospice Society, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported our 19th annual Hike for Hospice.

Despite the rain, our community came together with warmth, generosity, and spirit. We are thrilled to share that we reached our $50,000 fundraising goal! This incredible

LETTERS POLICY

achievement is thanks to the many individuals, families, community groups, and local businesses who participated, donated, and raised funds on our behalf.

Your efforts help ensure compassionate end-of-life support is available and accessible throughout the Sea to Sky Corridor.

A special thank you to our dedicated volunteers, event partners, and

discounted TMX’s positive impact to the country’s GDP.

It wasn’t quite the free ride on the national stage the provincial government thought it was getting when it booked Eby on the station.

Nor did he get a free ride back home, appearing on CKNW Jas Johal’s show.

“I find some of the media discussion a bit frustrating,” the premier lamented.

Which should lead the BC NDP to the real question: Is the media actually the problem? Or, maybe it’s a government trying to deliver a message so convoluted that nobody understands it Rob Shaw has spent more than 17 years covering B.C. politics, now reporting for CHEK News and writing for The Orca/BIV He is the co-author of the national bestselling book A Matter of Confidence, host of the weekly podcast Political Capital, and a regular guest on CBC Radio. rob@robshawnews.com

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Would you watch a TV show if it was mostly in French?

Have your say at squamishchief.com

If there were a ferry from Squamish to Vancouver, would you take it often?

entertainers—your time and energy made this day possible Hike for Hospice is about more than fundraising; it’s about connecting and caring for our community. We are so grateful to everyone who made this year’s hike such a success.

Thank you.

Muff Hackett Board Chair

Sea to Sky Hospice Society

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

Monday to be considered for Thursday’s edition. Full names and neighbourhood will be published with the letter The publisher reserves the right

refuse and edit letters for length and clarity or to address legal concerns. Email letters to: editor@squamishchief.com

PEARLS’ VALUE & VINTAGE RAISES $1,250 FOR NEW ELDERS-INRESIDENCE PROGRAM

The

auction which ran during Indigenous History Month saw locals bid on donated artworks

INA PACE

Local Journalism Initiative reporter

APearls’ Value & Vintage auction fundraiser has raised $1,250 for a new Elders-in-Residence program.

Locals bid on 13 donated Indigenous artworks with one of the items going for $310.

The thrift store launched the auction at the start of the month in support of PearlSpace which wrapped up on June 27

Some of the donated art pieces included hand-carved wooden masks, and wall hangings; the most popular piece being a mask by Eddie Apodaca which had 17 of 92 bids

Pearls’ Value & Vintage operations coordinator Valerie Nagy spoke to The Squamish Chief about the success of the auction.

“[The auction] is not really a money making venture it was done out of respect for our local Squamish people—we’re really happy with how it went,” she said.

“Every year, we want to showcase the art and traditions of the local people, so yeah, it’s just a nice thing that we do together with some of the smaller spaces; it’s just kind of a nice community effort for everybody.”

Funds from the auction will go directly towards PearlSpace’s yet-to-be-launched Elders-in-Residence program.

According to Pearls’ Value & Vintage social media, the Elders in Residence Program is a “key action from PearlSpace’s 2024–2026 Decolonizing Action Plan, aimed at deepening our relationships with Host Nations.”

Mountain Psychology and Neurofeedback Centre

Stephen L. Milstein, Ph.D., R. Psych. BC #765

604.938.3511 Squamish:

Dawna Dixx Milstein, OT.COTBC #A A0201

604.938.3523

604.848.9273 Whistler: #107-4 368MainSt, Whistler,B.C.V0N 1B4

Serving sea to sky for18years

“Through this program, we hope to engage Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers to share traditional ways of being and healing with our staff and participants, and to help inform revisions to our policies and procedures,” their post reads.

“Elders-in-Residence programs across Canada play a vital role in integrating Indigenous

FESTIVAL: Continued from 11

opportunity to gawk at over 20 large-scale pieces downtown, painted by both local and visiting artists.

But during The Big Weekend, people following the self-guided tour will be able to see the artists in their element, and the murals come to life in real time.

This will be followed by workshops for teens led by professional artists Jessa Gilbert and Alex Fowkes, where participants can try it themselves, with a spray paint mural camp and a floor mural camp being offered.

The camps run from July 7 to 11 and Aug 5 to 8 at the Foundry Sea to Sky Youth Hub.

“More than mere paintings on walls, these murals instill a profound sense of belonging and pride within our community, while also acting as a powerful deterrent against graffiti and tagging,” reads the Downtown Squamish BIA website.

“As we embellish our neighbourhoods, we collectively shape and beautify our surroundings, allowing the true spirit of our town to shine.”

Visitors will see work that honours the land it’s created on

“We recognize that these magnificent murals are created on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw [Squamish Nation], honouring the Indigenous heritage

knowledge, culture, and support within educational and community settings These programs engage Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers to share traditional teachings, provide mentorship, and foster cultural understanding among students, staff, and the broader community.”

Bids in the auction were made online only, with artwork to be pick-up from the store itself.

Pearls’ also has a window display in honour of Indigenous History Month, which is in June.

The display was made in collaboration with Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) Elder Sisolia Donna Billy and local weavers Siyaltenaat Joy Joseph-Mccullough and Yususult Rosemarie Williams who loaned their handmade shawls for the display.

Pearls’ Value & Vintage store is located on 38130 Cleveland Avenue

The store is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday to Wednesday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday to Friday, and they take donations from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every day.

Ina Pace is The Squamish Chief’s Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) Reporter. This reporting was produced through the LJI, which supports original civic journalism across Canada

that enriches our very foundation,” the website reads.

“So, come join us on this inspiring journey, as we uncover the hidden gems of our downtown neighborhood and celebrate the artistry that binds us together.”

WALK THE STREETS

No cars allowed!

During the Big Weekend, the Open Street Day will see the entirety of Cleveland Avenue closed off to traffic—which means lots of space for people to perambulate, shop at their favourite stores, and bask in the vibes hand-in-hand

“Allowing our local businesses to interact, engage, and re-imagine spaces normally reserved for vehicle traffic and let our residents experience the neighbourhood from a different perspective,” reads the Downtown Squamish BIA website.

“Streets as a public space that put people first hold huge possibilities where people of all ages, abilities, and economic backgrounds can come together.”

There will be a free bike valet set up at Pemberton and Cleveland Avenue from OurSquamish Placemaking Society.

“We encourage you to travel downtown by transit, foot, bike, skateboard, or Scooter!” Follow @squamishartsfestival and @ downtownsquamish to keep on top of all the offerings coming up, and to learn more about the artists involved.

PHOTO BY INA PACE/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The Pearls’ Value & Vintage window display as of June 27

LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL SOCIAL JUSTICE ADVOCATE KIANA ALAI RECEIVES $44,000 SCHOLARSHIP

The Howe Sound Secondary student plans to pursue a degree in law

WILL JOHNSON news@squamishchief.com

She wasn’t prepared for what she was about to read

Howe Sound Secondary student Kiana Alai was in Grade 9 when she first picked up a copy of The Book Thief, a novel about the Holocaust. Since she had never learned about it before, she was shocked by the visceral darkness and vivid details of this historic injustice—and it made her want to take action to ensure nothing like this could ever happen again.

Now three years later, this hyper-busy 18 year old has created multiple trajectories for social change, becoming co-minister of the Lower Mainland for B.C. Youth Parliament, serving as co-chair of her high school’s student council and even writing her own short fiction centered around issues of immigration and injustice.

Next up she will be heading to the University of British Columbia (UBC) Vancouver, where she plans to work towards becoming a lawyer

All of this will be made easier by the $44,000 scholarship she just received from Beedie Luminaries, which she will receive over the course of four years. The fund was created to support students facing socio-economic challenges and other life adversities. Alai’s family immigrated to Canada from Iran shortly before she was born

“I know there are a lot more opportunities in Canada, and my parents wanted to come here so me and my little brother could have every opportunity and a really good education,” Alai told The Squamish Chief, noting that her mother has been a driving force in her success.

“The fact that I’m trying all of these things and involved in so many clubs is really because of the influence of my mom. She always pushes me out of my comfort zone,” she said.

The list of groups, clubs and organizations that Alai has involved herself in is long She’s part of the Interact Club, the Leadership class and the Squamish Youth Council. Besides the BC Youth Parliament, she’s also a member of the Vancouver Youth Parliament, where she was deputy leader of the opposition She’s also the founder of the school’s first model UN club, and works at the Squamish Public Library as a shelver while finding time to put in one shift a week at the local thrift store, Pearls’ Value & Vintage.

Somehow, she also finds time to use her imagination.

“I really love writing. That’s a big passion of mine, so I plan to take lots of English and Social Studies classes at UBC. I love essay-writing and story-writing and I’m really into reading just about everything. I like writing stories about

I’m not sure what type of lawyer I want to be yet, but I want to do something that makes a difference.

KIANA ALAI

issues that matter,” she said.

One story she wrote was about a foreign nanny tasked with taking care of other people’s children while being separated from her own. She wanted to explore the systemic challenges facing people who move to Canada from other countries.

Alai is passionate about history as well, and how it’s portrayed through both fiction and non-fiction, because it motivates her to pursue the social change she wants to see in the world.

As a member of the social justice club, she’s been helping raise awareness about everything

from Red Dress Day to issues facing the LGBTQ+ community—along with other students she created a wall of fame at the school to introduce students to prominent queer people who have advanced human rights

The end goal is to raise awareness and broaden people’s minds, the same way The Book Thief did for her.

“I’m really tuned into social justice. I’m not sure what type of lawyer I want to be yet, but I want to do something that makes a difference I want to do something good and useful that helps others, so I’m hoping to discover at university how I can do that.”

Besides the $44,000 she will be receiving from Beedie Luminaries, Alai will also be the recipient of wrap-around services designed to help her thrive, including access to mentors, workshops, student success advising, and peer support.

On June 24 she attended a Beedie Luminaries event called A Night for Bright Minds in Vancouver, along with the other 279 recipients of the scholarships. She was thrilled to be surrounded by other students as passionate as she is about impacting the world.

“They told us they look beyond the application at who you are, and tried to figure out who could really use this money. They told us ‘We can see you could go really far,’” she said

PHOTO VIA VANCOUVER YOUTH PARLIAMENT Kiana Alai at Vancouver Youth Parliament.

ALWAYS A NICE DAY FOR GOLF, AS NEW INDOOR SIMULATION VENUE OPENS

An alternate golf facility opened on Discovery Way last week, boasting simulation technology and Scottish heritage

for him

INA PACE

Local Journalism Initiative reporter

The Squamish Valley Golf Club is a local favourite, but what do you do when the infamous Squamish rain just won’t let up or when you want some privacy to brush up on your putting skills before hitting the local course?

Well, Swings Indoor Golf, located on Discovery Way, has you covered.

Swings is the brainchild of native Scotsman turned long-time Squamish resident, Fraser Robertson, who first thought of the business venture last summer, before starting the venue’s construction in February

Robertson grew up in Fife, Scotland, in the U.K where he played outdoor golf with his family for years before moving to B.C., and he has continued to play since, observing how the unpredictable Squamish weather can limit many outdoor hobbies and activities for some people

“I’ve seen golf get busier and busier in Squamish,” Robertson said.

“I felt there was room for another practice

Please Contact the SPCA for more details! Visit our website: spca.bc.ca

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FRASER ROBERTSON

facility in town to make [golf] more accommodating and accessible.”

Robertson explained how some people have reached out to him, describing how golf intimidates them, especially when they’re first starting to play

“You may not want to play in front of a line-up of people, so this is the perfect place to come on your own,” he said

The venue uses a simulation program called Trackman to enable you to step into the world of virtual reality (VR) and choose any type of scenery you wish; furthermore, you may choose the weather and time of day, which syncs to the pace of your game.

Kids also get a mini putt simulation, alongside other programs such as bowling.

The Squamish Chief engaged in a taster of the simulation at the front part of the venue known as The Croft, where there is a green space for hybrid practice.

The Croft, meaning a small agricultural space in Scotland, has a platform with real golf balls and clubs (bring your own or rent them), also a sloped putting green with flags and holes—or cups, if we’re being technical.

The screen backdrop is for the graphics, and where the simulation also displays your score and the distance of your strokes, calculating, of course, your individual aim and power.

That’s just one part of the venue; the back of the facility consists of more social and historical elements.

Named after rustic huts used for community events and refuge by Scottish Highland farmers, The Bothy is a social lounge area with live televised golf games, and a simulation platform identical to the adjacent The Croft, also a bar for soft drinks and snacks

The Bothy is also home to Robertson’s merchandise display of apparel and stickers; he has also gathered a collection of books about Scottish golfing history and personal places of interest, as well as some golfing relics.

Robertson showed The Squamish Chief his antique mashie niblicks, dating from the early 20th century, found, of all places, in Fort Langley, and on Cleveland Avenue.

Robertson said they were hand-forged only a few miles or hours from where he grew up in Fife, something he said is rather cathartic

“I kind of wanted to go for timeless, old-school Scottish golf club vibes,” Robertson said, unmistakably referring in part to the textured, green tartan wallpaper in the bathroom

As for what makes golf such an engaging sport, he said that the game isn’t about perfection, but rather self-competition, whilst balancing out players’ abilities.

The venue’s name—Swings—Robertson said, was inspired by the now closed down Garibaldi Springs golf course, which is now becoming a housing development.

Garibaldi Swings evolved to just Swings, Robertson explained, whilst gesturing to the defunct course’s carved wooden relic in his collection, which he said bears the Indigenous logo for Garibaldi Springs.

“This place will be a sanctuary, available to everyone [with] coaching clinics as a huge part of the goal of this place,” he said, before elaborating on opportunities also for eventbased games, and recalling recently hosting Howe Sound High School’s golf team for an end-of-year celebration.

Your time at Swings can be booked on the venue’s website or scanned onsite via a QR code, for 30-minute to three-hour time-slots, with four people maximum per set.

Players receive a confirmation email with a unique access code for the front door, and for unlocking their session; monthly members will receive their first hour for free Swings Indoor Golf is located in unit 125 at 39455 Discovery Way, and is available for bookings 24/7

Ina Pace is The Squamish Chief’s Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) Reporter

This reporting was produced through the LJI, which supports original civic journalism across Canada

The Squamish Business Beat was developed in response to local demand for more business-focused news. To be considered, please reach out to news@squamishchief.com.

While funding for this coverage was provided, The Squamish Chief maintains full editorial control over all content.

Brought to you by Community Futures Howe Sound, The Sea to Sky’s resource for financing and free business support to help local businesses and entrepreneurs in the area Connect with them directly and learn more at cfhowesound.com or email Kieran at kieran.hale@cfhowesound.com.

PHOTO BY INA PACE/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Swings Indoor Golf founder Fraser Robertson.

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Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling

LASTWEEK’SANSWERS:

HOROSCOPE WEEK OF JULY3,2025-JULY9,2025

ARIES March21-April 19

Focusondoingwhatyoulove thisweek.Treateveryoccasion asanopportunityforaparty Planningyourvacationmay feeloverwhelmingwithso manyoptions.However,don’t forgettotackleafewimportant commitmentsthatneedyour attention.

TAURUS April 20-May 20

It’stimeforachange;stop procrastinating.You’llstartanew projectorexplorenewandexciting opportunities.Yourhomemight alsoneedafreshtouch,whether throughredecoratingorrelocating.

GEMINI May21-June 20

You’llparticipateintraining sessionsandconferencesand negotiateimportantagreements Inyourrelationship,yourpartner mayhavetostepupandtake responsibility—you’renotthere tocatertotheireveryneed.You’ll successfullybreakcertainbad habitsathome

CANCER June 21-July 22

Asyourvacationdrawsnear,your mindmaylingeroncertainworkrelatedmatters,forcingyoutostay connectedtotheoffice.Ifyou’re single,temperyourexcitementafter apromisingfirstdate.You’llbeleft waitingforaresponse.

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VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22

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Takeadvantageofyourvacation toturnyourprofessionaland home-relateddreamsintoreality. However,don’tforgettorest andgiveyourselfsometimeto recharge.

HOWTOPLAY:

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3box contains the numbers1through 9only once. Each 3x3box is outlined with adarker line. Youalready have afew numbers to getyou started. Remember: youmust not repeat the numbers1through 9in the same line, column or 3x3box