May 7, 2026 by Pacific Coastal Publications LP

VILLAGE ON BAILEY STREET APPROVED

New housing, theatre and parkade coming downtown

THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2026

MISSING HIKER’S REMAINS FOUND IN SQUAMISH

Vancouver resident Alexander Nguyen went missing on July 1, 2025, near Shannon Falls. Sea to Sky RCMP urge caution ahead of hiking season

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

It’s a search that has ended in tragedy.

Missing hiker Alexander Nguyen’s remains were located April 24 The 20-year-old Vancouver man went missing near Shannon Falls on Canada Day, 2025, while hiking with his family

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the family of Alexander, who have endured several months of uncertainty and pain while he remained missing,” said Insp Robert Dykstra in an email.

A broad search was launched over three days, with Squamish Search and Rescue deploying members from 10 different teams across the south coast to find the missing man.

He had wandered away from his family to explore, and his cell phone pinged at the Sea to Sky Summit, roughly 10 kilometres from the Sea to Sky Gondola and featuring very technical terrain. PHOTOS BY VANESSA TOOKE; (INSERT) JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF BRIGHT LIGHTS, LITTLE BRIDGE: The pedestrian bridge over the Mamquam Blind Channel lights up at night. The developers behind the bridge are Bosa Properties Inc. and Kingswood Properties It is an amenity contribution that was part of the SEAandSKY development approval in 2017 The District will take over ownership and management once it is complete The bridge was designed by Rafael Santa Ana Architecture Workshop, with artwork by Squamish Nation artists Carla Spence and Calvin Dawson

HIKER: Continued on 3

N PEAKS 4 BEDROOM

COUNCIL UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES ‘THE VILLAGE ON BAILEY STREET’

New theatre and public parkade slated for downtown following council approval, though some locals expressed concerns at public hearing over parking, traffic, construction disruption and children’s safety

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

After a packed 3.5-hour public hearing where about 10 residents shared their concerns or support for a proposed large housing and commercial project downtown, it passed.

Council unanimously approved third reading for The Village on Bailey Street, a multifaceted development that includes a theatre and public parkade slated for the large swath of land along the railway tracks at the entrance to downtown.

While the project will come back to council for final adoption, it is exceedingly rare that a proposal is stopped at that point, making this development all but a certainty now.

It was a packed house for the public hearing that preceded the council vote at the special meeting held at The 55 Activity Centre on Tuesday night, April 28

Though the numbers petered out by the time the decision was made, at the start of the night, between 75 to 100 folks had turned up for the public hearing, requiring staff to take a recess at one point to add more seating.

While public hearings are often prohibited by the provincial government these days, this rezoning required a public hearing under the Local Government Act because it received first reading prior to Bill 44 adoption in 2023

THE PROJECT

The properties up for rezoning are located at 1331, 1251, a portion of 1100 Bailey S., and 38261 Cleveland Ave., along the Canadian National Railway line.

There will be a total of 230 condos and townhomes in the project, including 39

affordable housing units.

All told, there will be roughly 10,000 square metres of employment space, including ground floor retail, office space, a child care centre for approximately 125 children, and a hybrid theatre.

The theatre will have 300 to 325 seats in about 2,500 square metres of space, with 20% of weekends (10 weekends a year) dedicated to local non-profit use at cost

Hybrid means the theatre can be converted for other uses, such as conferences, and other events, as the seats are retractable, not fixed as in a standard theatre.

There will be a five-storey public parkade with 218 stalls. Overall, the project will include 560 parking spaces—residential and commercial

combined. This is above what is required There will also be the inclusion of a percentage of Level 2 chargers for electric vehicles

The project will be phased over years, allowing unused lots to be used for construction—which is slated to be by Kindred Construction—crew parking and staging.

There will need to be a fully signalized intersection at the Bailey Street and Cleveland Avenue intersection as the development is built out, the staff report to council states

This project has long been in the works. One of the main proponents, well known Sea to Sky real estate agent Ann Chiasson, noted it is a “legacy” project for her and her family that has been planned with District staff down to almost every

detail over 11 years.

“This is a community amenity package to me,” she said, “I look at the housing and the homes that we are going to provide for families we’ve included the theatre because it is a bit of a legacy project for us,” she said “It is a family legacy project we want to leave.”

The rezoning passed first reading July 4, 2023, and second reading on May 7, 2024

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Of the public who spoke at the meeting, main themes were concerns about parking, in particular what will become of the approximately 130 vehicles that already park along Bailey Street, traffic through the adjacent residential properties,construction management, safety for kids who use the area as a route to school, what will become of wildlife who use the property, and concern for folks who were living in encampments that were moved off the property

There were also questions about the large crash wall—and its potential for graffiti—that is required for the project due to the movement of trains on the railway alongside it, as well as safety queries about the potential for more trains to pass through, given the uncertainty of the future of the rail line

Patrick Henry, who lives in the adjacent Eaglewind housing and is the Streams strata president, spoke a few times to concerns around the increased traffic flowthrough and parking impacts of the project.

“Every single day there are 130-plus cars along Bailey, maybe not all of them need to be there, and maybe some don’t live or visit in Eaglewind, but I think it is something to consider,” he said He noted that other future developments in

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Roughly 100 people turned out to The 55 Activity Centre for a public hearing for The Village on Bailey Street on April 28

BAILEY STREET: Continued on 3

HIKER: Continued from 1

Sea to Sky RCMP say no foul play is suspected, and they’ve closed their investigation

“I’d like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that with good weather on its way, hiking areas around the Stawamus Chief, Shannon Falls, and other back country areas in the S2S can be challenging and dangerous if you are not prepared.”

AdventureSmart advice for recreating suggest being prepared by:

- Bringing a headlamp with spare batteries

- Bring a fire-making kit

- Have a signal device, either a mirror or a

STREET: Continued from 2

the area, such as the Polygon Three Summits project on the other side of Eaglewind, will add to the traffic and parking pressure through that neighbourhood.

“As we add in more volume, where are these cars going to go?”

There were also letters sent in from residents, such as Ryan Perillo, who urged action on a connection between Buckley Avenue and Third Avenue.

“As our community experiences a significant population surge, particularly in the downtown core, the current infrastructure is nearing its limit,” Perillo wrote.

This was much discussed at the meeting.

Staff noted the extension as a long-term District priority project, but as it crosses a CN right-of-way, it requires work with CN, “to confirm the alignment and configuration of the future connection at the District’s cost.”

Some speakers said they were really looking forward to the theatre, including Jessica Kelly, who owns Act Alive Academy, who said the theatre is “very, very much needed” in town. She did question the theatre management plans, which later in the meeting Chiasson responded to.

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Email your news tip or story idea to: jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

“We’re not building a theatre to sit empty. It is going to be a business and it is going to run and it will have a full board,” she said, adding there will also be a management team. She noted she has been on the Whistler Film Festival board for the last 15 years.

“I know what the arts needs to make things happen,” she said

Chiasson also spoke to the work that has gone into many details of the project. For example, she said there is a desire to work with the daycare to offer child care during evening theatre shows, and to have artists make the parkade attractive

“We have given a lot of deep thought to this,” she said “We are community people I have been here a long time This is not just throw it up there and run out of town We’re still in town We are in business here and have been since the ‘90s.”

SAMPLE COUNCIL COMMENTS

Elected officials praised the many folks who came out to engage meaningfully with the project at the hearing, and praised the proponent for going beyond what was asked for in many aspects of the project.

Coun. Andrew Hamilton spoke to the trade-offs with every development, but the overall value gained with this project.

“In the long run, I am supportive of this development because I believe that in-fill density, particularly in our downtown, is the path forward for our community to become more livable and more affordable,” he said. “I think it is a critical piece for our community to accept that infill density is going to be required so that we may have five more neighbours, but at least we don’t live five more blocks away from a forest.”

He added that he heard all the concerns raised and understands there are impacts to these projects

“That is not to say that density is a utopia It is absolutely not. It has its challenges,” he said He stressed that the decision before councillors was about rezoning, which is a long-term decision on land-use

“From the long-term question that I have heard from most folks here, a big piece of this is ‘Where do we put our cars?’ and ‘How do we get our cars from A to B?’ I think we need to accept that our cars are a big piece of the challenge of density … of our affordability,” he said.

“I would like to ask everybody when they are thinking about parking impact, ask yourself, ‘What is my impact having on the community around me when I need to park my car as well?”

Among other feedback, Coun. Jenna Stoner

whistle

- Bring extra food and water

- Pack extra clothes for emergency warmth

- Bring navigation aids aside from GPS

- Stock and bring a first aid kit

- Bring a multi-tool

- Have an emergency shelter

- Plan your trip, and tell someone your route and expected return time

“We want everyone to stay safe when taking advantage of outdoor activities, so please ensure you bring necessary supplies including water and food, and wear proper clothing and footwear for the area and weather,” Dykstra said.

spoke to her concerns with developments like this not having sunset clauses, meaning deadlines for construction to ensure all aspects get built in a timely manner, but added it wasn’t fair to introduce such a condition this far down the road of this project’s process.

She also noted that the folks parking along Bailey Street currently were able to do so because the land owners allowed it on their private property

“The proponent in many ways has been very generous in allowing their site to be used for overflow parking in our downtown core for many years at a free cost,” she said Coun Lauren Greenlaw, who is not always supportive of new housing developments, was supportive of this one.

“What I really like about this development is that it is clear to me that a significant part of the developer’s incentive is to create a long-term legacy to the benefit of the community,” she said, adding she is “very excited” about the parkade, which will help deal with parking issues

“I am also very supportive of the theatre. Between those two amenities and the affordable housing units, I think this will be a beneficial development for our community.”

Watch the entire meeting for yourself on the District’s YouTube channel.

FILE PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

A large search and rescue mission was launched over three days to ﬁnd the missing man.

BAILEY

THERAPIST WEIGHS IN ON THE RISE OF AI AS A MENTAL HEALTH TOOL

Local counsellor says chatbots can help clients rehearse difficult conversations and manage anxiety. It also creates echo chambers, addiction and has limited applications

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

Alocal therapist wants to open up conversations on how AI use can help and harm people seeking counselling.

Jill Koehler is a therapist in Squamish whose master’s thesis focused on the intersection of therapy and technology. She’s recently seen a surge in clients discussing their use of AI.

“I hear about clients using AI, and there are some ways it can be really helpful for people, but there are some ways that it can kind of trip people up and cause problems for them.”

She’s one of three local counsellors who say it’s an increasing phenomenon Koehler, of Communicating Well Counselling, Julia Bursey of Julia Bursey Counselling and Sapphire Harpin of Inner Sphere Wellness have all noticed the trend.

Whether it’s AI offering advice on someone’s anxiety symptoms or on how to use nonviolent communication skills in challenging conversations, there are countless positive use cases for someone trying to improve their self-understanding or communication skills.

“It kind of almost gives people a chance to do some role play or rehearsal in a way that might feel safer, because it’s just with them,” Koehler said.

But there are potential pitfalls. One warning sign she pointed to is that people may be relying unhealthily on chatbots for support when they engage with AI more than they do with friends or others around them

“AI can create a little bit of a self-fulfilling prophecy, an echo chamber. Those people can kind of lose track of reality if that was the only way they’re engaging,” she said There are also concerns around the addictive

DISTRICT of

NoticeofGrant of Assistance

nature of AI, with young Canadians recommending the government act to curb the addictive design

REASONS PEOPLE TURN TO THERAPY CHATBOTS

Whether it’s loneliness and a lack of social connection, or an inability to afford therapy, some people have found real benefit from using these tools.

According to a 2025 survey from Mental Health Research Canada, almost 10% of Canadians reported using AI for mental health support or life advice

“Given so many mental health-care services in Canada aren’t funded through our public health-care system, it’s no surprise more people are turning to AI for help Without access to services, and faced with long waitlists and high

costs, people using AI for mental health support may not have any other options,” said the Canadian Mental Health Association in a blog post.

But the research on their overall impact is unclear. As Stanford researchers have shown, biases are built into AI, and the programs can fail—with horrific consequences.

ROBOT THERAPISTS

Stanford research on this topic started by reviewing the qualities that make a good therapist: empathy, lack of stigma for mental health conditions, challenging patients’ thoughts when necessary, and equal treatment of clients. They analyzed therapeutic chatbots to determine whether their responses would hold up to a human therapist.

The results were concerning AI “increased stigma toward conditions such as alcohol dependence and schizophrenia compared to conditions like depression,” according to a release about the research from Stanford

Their findings showed this stigma occurred across various AI models

CRAFTING A THERAPEUTIC PROMPT

To Koehler, AI is most helpful for manual cognitive behavioural therapy, which helps people change thought patterns and set goals. But what it can’t perform is somatic therapy techniques—at least, not yet.

“The more relational or somatic pieces, at least at this point, AI wouldn’t be able to pick up on, and I think it would be someone who would already have to be quite aware of that to even create a prompt of saying, ‘I tend to hold my breath.’”

So, what if you do want help creating a prompt for a therapeutic-like response?

She says the prompt needs to make AI more helpful and nuanced, and include safety guardrails

“[You can write], ‘Can you please create a prompt for me? I want to have help with this, but I want to make sure I’m looking at it from lots of different angles, and I’d like you to let me know when this is something I should seek out talking to a friend, a therapist, my doctor, or somebody else about.’”

Giving it some context about your situation and history helps, and you need to ask for a balanced response.

She’s also balanced in her analysis of AI as a therapeutic tool

“I couldn’t sit here and say that it’s bad or that it’s good, it’s more How is it impacting you? Is it helping someone to feel more connected, or is it leading you to deviate more from navigating what might be difficult about making community connections?”

Squamish Search and Rescue Society

Pursuantto Section24 of the CommunityCharter, the Councilofthe District of Squamishhereby givesnoticeofits intention to grantassistance to theSquamish Search and Rescue Societyby transferring ownershipofawashroom trailerfor onedollar Development Review

• 1343WinnipegStreet DevelopmentVariance Permit

• 38050LoggersLane (Water Lot) Zoning Amendment squamish.ca/review

PHOTO BY VALERIY_G / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS Jill Koehler (not pictured) says she’s seeing an uptick in clients referencing using AI for therapy.

SQUAMISH RIVER AREA NAMED A KEY BIODIVERSITY AREA, HOME TO 10% OF A RARE MOSS

The Squamish River is getting international attention for something most visitors would miss: a small, endangered moss

JENNIFER

THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

Most locals covet the Squamish River for its strength, beauty and value to local wildlife, flora and fauna—not to mention as a place to cool off when the temperatures rise.

But now, the Squamish River region is being formally and globally recognized, in particular for its moss.

The Squamish River has been officially recognized as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA). The area includes the rivers and shorelines in and around Brackendale of the Squamish, Mamquam and Cheakamus rivers

The site earned KBA status for its Roell’s brotherella moss, with roughly 10% of the world’s known population found within the area

“This rare moss thrives in the region’s moist, forested habitats, making the Squamish River KBA one of the most important strongholds for its survival,” reads a news release from the Wildlife Conservation Society Canada

The moss was designated endangered by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada, an independent advisory panel of experts in November 2010, and its status was re-examined and confirmed in May 2025.

“It’s exciting to see this new KBA recognition for Squamish River, and especially how it shines a spotlight on species like Roell’s brotherella moss. This little moss might seem ordinary, but it’s a fascinating and uniquely Canadian piece of our shared natural heritage,” said Peter Soroye, KBA assessment and outreach coordinator with Wildlife Conservation Society Canada, which led the KBA proposal with Birds Canada, in the release.

The release notes the area is also nationally significant for the glaucous-winged gull Winter surveys, including Christmas Bird Counts from 2012 to 2023, recorded a median of 3,408 of the birds—representing approximately 2.6% of Canada’s population Peak counts have exceeded 5,000 birds.

The rivers are perhaps best known for providing essential spawning habitat for chum and coho salmon, which draw the bald eagles to Brackendale, which it is renowned for, each winter season.

“As part of the Howe Sound Biosphere Region, and with its position as a migration corridor for birds moving through the Pacific Flyway, the Squamish River Estuary provides critical habitat for many wildlife species. Thanks to the restoration of the marine environment in the past decades, thousands and thousands of spawning salmon keep coming back in different waves throughout the year, in turn providing food for large numbers of gulls and eagles,” said Rémi Torrenta, B.C. projects coordinator for

Birds Canada

The region also supports American dippers, mergansers, goldeneyes and the nationally endangered black swift, among many others, the release notes.

The new KBA status does not create any legal protections, but “it does provide evidence and support to drive advocacy, land-use planning, and regional stewardship,” the release says.

Members of the local organization Nature Squamish (formerly Squamish Environment Society) and BC Nature, monitor and steward species and habitats within the Squamish River KBA.

“BC Nature is proud to support our member club, [Nature Squamish] in their efforts to monitor, steward and promote Squamish River as a Key Biodiversity Area Since its original designation as an Important Bird Area, we’ve seen time and time again how community naturalists and volunteer caretakers can work together to safeguard critical wildlife habitat. This recognition marks the next step in supporting community to be stewards the lands and waters they call home,” said Liam Ragan, B.C KBA manager for BC Nature

Well-known Squamish conservationist John Buchanan is a caretaker for the Squamish River KBA

“Sixty years I’ve been living in Squamish and have seen many changes in our local environment. Nice to have been around long enough to see the Squamish River Estuary now getting the care and recognition it has long been overdue for,” he said.

KBAs are reassessed every eight to 12 years to see that they still meet the criteria

The criteria are identified using a “scientifically rigorous and globally agreed set of criteria” developed through consultation within the conservation community.

To be designated a global KBA, the area has to meet one or more 11 specific criteria, grouped into five higher-level categories: threatened biodiversity, geographically restricted

This rare moss thrives in the region’s moist, forested habitats, making the Squamish River KBA one of the most important strongholds for its survival.

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION SOCIETY CANADA

biodiversity, ecological integrity, biological processes and irreplaceability

Threats to the Squamish River KBA are listed on the KBA site as housing and urban areas, tourism and recreation areas, marine and freshwater aquaculture, logging and wood harvesting.

See all designated sites on the KBA Canada website.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WILDLIFE CONSERVATION SOCIETY CANADA The area is also nationally signiﬁcant for the glaucous-winged gull (Larus glaucescens)

DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH RECEIVES PROVINCIAL AWARD FOR SP’AWK’US FEATHER PARK

The District has received a provincial award of excellence for ‘transformative’ Sp’awk’us Feather Park

INA PACE ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

The District of Squamish has received the 2026 Parks Excellence Award from BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA), for establishing Sp’awk’us Feather Park

The award was presented at BCRPA’s annual symposium conference in Vancouver on April 30. According to the BCRPA website, the Parks Excellence Award is a category within the BCRPA Provincial Awards of Excellence, which recognizes “outstanding design and development of park spaces that utilize natural elements or repurposed materials, reflect community culture, enhance accessibility for all, and encourage engagement with nature.”

Conditions for winning projects include positively impacting community well-being, and being owned and operated by local government. The nominated park must also have been established for one year.

Sp’akw’us Feather Park (37321 Galbraith Ave.) opened in 2024 in collaboration with

Baha’i Faith

SQUAMISHBAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY

THE FESTIVAL OF RIDVAN

Baha’i communities worldwide celebrate their most sacred festival, Ridvan, which takes fromthe end of April to the beginning of May eachyear. This event commemorates the 12days that Baha’u’llah spent on the banks of the Tigris River in Baghdad in 1863, during which He declared His mission as God’sMessengerfor anew ageand revealed the spiritual principles that arethe foundation of His teachings.

The major themes of Baha’u’llah’smessage centreon theprinciple of unity on three issues.

The Unity of God: Regardless of the name used for God or the various methods of worship, Baha’is believe that thereisonlythe one God.

The Unity of Religion: God has revealed his light many timesinorder to illumine mankind inthe path of evolution, in various countries and through many different prophets, masters andsages.

“Religion should unite all hearts and cause wars and disputes to vanish from the face of the earth, give birthtospirituality,and bring life and light to each heart….Any religion which is not acause of love and unity is no religion. All the holy prophetswereasdoctors to the soul ”-Abdu’l-Baha

The Unity of Humanity: Afundamental teaching of Baha’u’llahisthe oneness of the world of humanity.Addressing mankind, He says, “Ye areall leaves of onetreeand the fruitsofone branch.”Abdu’l- Baha further explains, “God, the Almighty,has created all mankind from the dustofearth. He has fashioned them all from the same elements; they aredescended from the same race andlive uponthe same globe. He has created them todwell beneath the one heaven.Asmembers of the humanfamily and His children He hasendowed them with equal susceptibilities.”–Abdu’l-Baha

www.squamishbahais.com

Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation).

It was developed by Matthews West, after being envisaged for over a decade.

“[The park] is an example of reconciliation in action, whereby community-driven spaces can strengthen belonging and well-being for generations to come,” BCRPA CEO Katie Fenn said in a press release

The oceanfront 4.45-hectare park was transformed from an industrial site It features multiple local art pieces and event spaces (often for festivals and gatherings such as the annual Sp’akw’us Feather Shakedown), with a playground including Indigenous storytelling visuals

DOG BONE-SHAPED DAFFODILS by the dozens to the kind folks who stopped when our yellow lab was hit by a truck on Squamish Valley Road on the evening of April 30—including the driver who was in no way at all at fault in this—and to the wonderful humans at Sea to Sky Veterinary Clinic who did their best for our poor pup. Your kindness is something that gives us great comfort as we mourn our sweet girl

developed with the Nation’s youth and knowledge holders, as well as a sound stage, and gardens.

“This to me, is an example of a microcosm of the power of transformative partnership,” Fenn said

“That park is very, very special. The naturebased, spiritual type setting is fun and playful at the same time, and peaceful There’s few places that I go to get a sense of awe. [It shows] we’re all connected and part of a bigger whole in harmony with nature.”

Fenn described the selection process for the Parks Excellence Award as “fairly rigorous.”

Each application takes approximately 10 hours to complete by the people who submit it, she explained, and it is assessed on a scoring criteria through the lens of equity, diversity and inclusion, of which reconciliation is a priority, alongside climate change and access to nature

The awards committee is made up of folks who work in municipal parks and recreation from across the province, so every region is represented.

“We’re incredibly impressed with the leadership and forethought of Squamish,” Fenn said.

“They’re really leading the way in this space. Many communities across the province will be looking to these awards as opportunities to think about how they can shape their communities with similar thoughtful change.”

Fenn clarified that Squamish Nation was unable to attend this year’s awards ceremony due to a scheduling conflict, though the BCRPA are organizing to have the award presented in Squamish in the near future

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

Got something nice to say or some constructive criticism? Send your Darts & Daffodils: Email: news@squamishchief.com or drop off at The Chief office (38117 Second Ave.) during business hours. Deadline for submissions is Monday at 4 p.m. for Thursday’s paper. All submissions must be signed and include a phone number for verification. Maximum length is 75 words. Darts are intended to be an anonymous critique between private parties. Darts must not directly or indirectly identify an individual or business

PHOTO BY INA PACE/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Sp’awk’us Feather Park opened in 2024

LOCAL CABINET MAKER WINS PROVINCIAL GOLD, HEADS TO NATIONALS

Michael Merrin of Living Edge Design took top honours at Skills Trades BC and will compete in Toronto at the end of May

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

ASquamish cabinet maker is heading to nationals after taking gold at the provincial Skills Trades BC competition last month.

Michael Merrin, who works at Living Edge Design in Squamish, won the gold medal in the cabinet making category, beating out fellow makers from across B.C. with a handcrafted entryway table complete with a lift-top lid, curved components and a dovetail tray inside “It’s a test of skill,” he said “You’re given a time limit of six hours.”

All competitors work from the same drawing,

Notice of Intent

To Consider Squamish-LillooetRegionalDistrict ProcedureBylaw No.1899-2026

In accordance with subsection225(2)ofthe LocalGovernmentAct,noticeis herebygiven that theSquamish-LillooetRegionalDistrict(SLRD)Board intendstoconsideradoptionof Squamish-LillooetRegional District Procedure Bylaw No.1899-2026

When: RegularBoard Meeting- May27, 2026 at 10:30a.m Where: SLRD Office,1350Aster Street,Pemberton,BC

Theproposedbylaw wouldrepealand replace Squamish-LillooetRegionalDistrict ProcedureBylaw No.1499-2016 andestablishupdated rulesgoverning theconductof Board andCommittee meetings.Key changesbetween Squamish-LillooetRegional DistrictProcedure Bylaw No.1499-2016 andproposed Squamish-LillooetRegional District ProcedureBylaw No.1899-2026 include, butare notlimited to,the following: General: Modernizes language,style andformat; adds procedural clarifications Chair/ Vice-Chair Elections: Introduces hybrid election model; permits candidatestoaddressMembers.

MeetingSchedule: Requires adoption of annual Regularmeeting schedule OrderofBusiness: Reorganizesproceedings;adds“ItemsRemoved from Consent Agenda”; removesfixed timesfor agenda headings. Delegations/ InvitedPresentations:Providesdistinction between delegations andinvited presentations

MeetingMinutes andBylaw Records: Authorizes theCorporate Officertocorrect minorclericalerrorsinadopted minutes andbylawswithout affecting substance.

Notice of Motion:Clarifies process. Motionsand Amendments:Introducesspeakingtimelimits; permitswithdrawal beforea vote

Requests fora copy of the proposed Bylawand questionsorcommentscan be directedtoAngelaBelsham,Corporate Officer, at 604-894-6371, or 1-800-298-7753, orcorporate@slrd.bc.ca

building identical pieces within the time limit.

Merrin says the format levels the playing field and puts pure craftsmanship front and centre

The Skills Trades BC competition, held in Abbotsford, showcases roughly 50 different trades and skills, from electrical installation to graphic design and public speaking

Merrin came to cabinet making through an indirect path He first picked up the basics by doing renovations in high school, later converted a van and fell in love with woodworking along the way, before eventually deciding to pursue it professionally He’s now just days away from earning his Red Seal certification after completing his technical training at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) over four years.

He’s careful to draw a distinction between his trade and carpentry, a mix-up he says is

common.

“Cabinet making is its own very unique and interesting art form,” he said, describing joinery as high-detail, shop-based work focused on fine finished pieces rather than the structural and onsite work associated with carpentry.

Merrin will compete at the Skills Canada National Competition in Toronto on May 28 and 29, where he’ll go up against gold medallists from every province and territory

“I feel good about it I definitely feel nervous,” he said “The level is going to be quite high.”

For anyone interested in getting into the trade, Merrin points to BCIT’s six-month foundation program for cabinet making, or Squamish’s own Create Makerspace for those looking to start as a hobby without investing in their own machinery.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL MERRIN

Michael Merrin is a provincial champion in cabinet making He’s headed to a national competition amongst the best makers in Canada

Business Opportunities

Request forQuotations

•Mamquam Bridge Deck Resurfacing squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

InfrastructureUpgrades

•Wastewater system upgrades continue on Madill Street,Garibaldi Avenue,BuckleyAvenue,and BritanniaAvenue.

Ice Allocation

Iceallocation requests forthe August 17, 2026 –May30, 2027 period arenow being accepted

Sprinkler

Twodaysper week from 4–10 am and 7–10 pm based on street address.

• Oddside: Thursdays and Sundays

• Even side: Wednesdays and Saturdays

Trees,flowers,shrubs or gardens is allowedanytime. Stage1OutdoorWaterUse Restrictionsnowineffect.

Hand Watering

•Annual Watermain Upgrades areunderwayin Brackendale.Workwill take placeonBirken Road, Faith Road,Depot Road andAxenRoad. Please expectsingle-lane traffic,dust/noise,traffic delays and potentiallytemporaryinterruptionofwater services.Any disruptions to thewater servicewill be during working hours only (8 a.m. to 6p.m.) Aminimum of 48 hours noticewill be givento affected homes. squamish.ca/building-our-future

Do youorsomeone youknowlivewith a disability?

We’rereviewing our District of Squamish AccessibilityPlan.

Drop in forachatand some snacks!

Saturday,May 9, 12–2 pm SquamishPublic Library

Summer daysare best spent with friends!

ActiveKids Summer Camps (Full Week |7–9YRS) at Rose Park

Lead Counsellor: Ryan Johnston

Giveyour child asummer filledwith adventure, friendship,and non-stop movement! This campoffers the perfect blend of outdoor exploration and creative activitiestokeep kids engaged

Themed Summer Camps (Full Week |7–12YRS) at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

Ourweekly themed camps offer an action-packed,engaging experience, featuring refreshing pool visits, exciting local out-trip adventures, and hands-on activities thatencourage creativity and friendship.

Fordetails and registration visit squamish.ca/rec

Request Deadline May15, 2026

EXTENDED

IceAllocation Meeting

NEWDATE

Thursday, June 4at6 pm at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

Application details and the application form are available at squamish.ca/iceallocation,orcall Brennan Park Recreation Centre at 604-898-3604 to request apaper copy.

Weekly OrganicsCollection

Weekly organicscollection is back as of Monday, May4,2026! Please have your organics bins ready on both your recycling and garbage collection days.

SportballParentand Child

Indoor Soccer (Full Week |2–3YRS) at Brennan Park RecreationCentre

Getakick out of Sportball Parent &Child Soccer programs! Participants areintroduced to fundamental concepts of soccerand areprovided the basic skills required to scorewith confidenceinfun, exciting, skills-focused games.With the guidanceand supportoftheir Sportball Coach, parents and children zero in on soccerskills, including: throw-ins,dribbling,trapping, passing,goalie skills and more.

Have you registeredfor Summer Swimming Lessons yet?

Checkout the arena andpool schedules!

Notices of BylawReadings forZoningAmendments

Tuesday, May19, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Council Chambers at Municipal Hall, 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, B.C.

Noticeisherebygiven in accordancewith Section 467 of the Local GovernmentAct,thatDistrictof Squamish Councilwill be considering first,second and thirdreading of thefollowing bylaws:

• DistrictofSquamish Zoning Bylaw No.2200, 2011, AmendmentBylaw(Garibaldi Estates–Medium LotResidential) No. 3233, 2026

• DistrictofSquamish Zoning Bylaw No.2200, 2011, AmendmentBylaw(Garibaldi Estates–Ground OrientedResidential) No.3234, 2026

• DistrictofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011,AmendmentBylaw(Garibaldi Estates–Mixed-Use Residential A) No.3235, 2026

• DistrictofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011,AmendmentBylaw (Garibaldi Estates–MixedUseResidential Band C) No.3236, 2026

• DistrictofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, AmendmentBylaw (Garibaldi Estates–Ground OrientedResidential A) No.3238, 2026

AffectedLands

Properties in the Garibaldi Estatesneighbourhood zoned R-1, RM-2, RM-3, C-1 and CD-71 shown on Location MapA

•BylawNo. 3233, 2026 –Garibaldi Estates–Medium LotResidential (GE1)

•BylawNo. 3234, 2026 –Garibaldi Estates–Ground OrientedResidential (GE2)

No Public Hearings

•BylawNo. 3235, 2026 –Garibaldi Estates –MixedUse Residential A(GE3)

•BylawNo. 3236, 2026 –Garibaldi Estates–MixedUseResidential Band C(GE4 &GE5)

•BylawNo. 3238, 2026 –Garibaldi Estates –Ground Oriented Residential A(GE6)

Purpose

Thepurpose of the proposedbylawamendments is to rezone properties subjecttothe Garibaldi Estates Neighbourhood Plan to alignwith the various land use designations and requirements outlined in the plan, as shown on Location MapA

This is the first of twonotices datedthis 7th dayof May2026 at Squamish, British Columbia.

In accordancewith Provincial legislation, Section 464(3) of the Local Government Act,alocal governmentisnot permitted to hold apublic hearing ona proposed zoning bylawifanOfficial CommunityPlan(OCP)isineffect,the bylawis consistentwith the OCP,thesole purpose of the bylawistopermit adevelopment thatis, in whole or in part, aresidential development,and the residential componentofthe developmentaccounts foratleast half of the gross floor area ofall buildings and other structures proposed as partofthe development. These proposed rezonings meet thoserequirements.

Noticeisherebygiven in accordancewith Section 467 of the Local Government Act, thatDistrict of Squamish Council will be considering first and second reading of the DistrictofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, AmendmentBylaw (OceanfrontLot ODensityClarification) No.3221, 2026.

AffectedLands

37495 Innovation Avenue as shown on Location MapB

Proposed BylawAmendments

Thepurpose of the proposed bylawamendment is to deletethe 207 rental unit maximum from the densityregulations in the CD-69 zone and instead rely solely on thethe overall densityof1.15 FAR maximum forresidential rental tenureuse to regulate densitywould not change.This would allowfor an additional 42 rental units to be included as partof the developmentproposal.

This is the first of twonotices datedthis 7th dayof May2026 at Squamish, British Columbia.

How To View TheProposed Bylaws

Acopy of the proposed bylawand relatedinformation thathas been or maybe considered by Council may be inspectedonline or at Municipal Hall.

•Online at: squamish.ca/showcase

•Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, from May7toMay 19, 2026 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Mondaythrough Friday. Enquiries regarding the proposed amendmentbylawmay be made to the Planning Departmentat 604-815-5002 or by email to planning@squamish.ca

LOCATION MAPA

LOCATION MAPB

THE SQUAMISH CHIEF NEWSPAPER, PRINTED EVERYTHURSDAY BY LODESTAR MEDIA

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EDITOR JENNIFERTHUNCHER jthuncher@ lodestarmedia.ca follow @thuncher

REPORTER LIZMCDONALD emcdonald@ lodestarmedia.ca

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SALESMANAGER

CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com

MULTI- MEDIASALES REPRESENTATIVE KIMBOATMAN kboatman@ squamishchief.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER DENISE CONWAY dconway@ squamishchief.com

PUBLISHER SARAHSTROTHER sstrother@lodestarmedia.ca

TheSquamishChief is amemberof theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependentorganization establishedtodealwithacceptable journalistic practicesand ethica behaviour. If youhaveconcerns abouteditorial content, please contactEditorJenniferThuncherat jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca.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

MOTORCYCLE CRASH SEASON IS BACK

Recently, therewas apackofabout 100 riders turningtogetheroff of Highway 99 at ClevelandAvenue, headingfor the StarbucksatSquamishStation.

It is thestart of that time of year when localswince as asunny weekendsees hundreds, if not thousands, of motorcyclists roll up anddownthe SeatoSky Corridor

Many of us in town do thesamething there’salmostnothing that clears themind better than motorcycle rubber hitting the roadofthe stunningly beautifuland technicallychallenging Highway99ona bluebird day.

Butsummerafter summer thesight of riders also meanscrashes,roadclosures, and, worstofall—deaths.

“There aretwo keys to keeping motorcyclists safer,”saidCpl.Michael McLaughlin with BC HighwayPatrolina news release. “Numberone, motorcyclistsneed to slow down anddrive defensively. Number two, everyother motorist needstopay attention andconsciously look formotorcycles so that collisions canbe avoided.”

Thereisnolegal limittoagroup of motorcyclists, butMcLaughlintoldThe Squamish Chiefhe strongly recommends that whileridingonB.C. highways,motorcyclists keep to smallergroupsofriders.

“Choosea riding groupwhere everyone hascomplimentary riding styles.Wedon’t want to create asituation wheresomeone feels they have to ‘keepup’ with faster riders, andwedon’t want anyone riding through yelloworred lights at intersectionsjust becausethey’re trying to keep pace with the frontofthe group,”hesaid.

MayisHigh-Risk Drivingand Motorcycle Awarenessmonth;thus, provincewide, police will be stepping up enforcement, especially on themostdangerous weekendof theyear: theMay long weekend.

Those whoare caught excessivelyspeeding ordisplayingother high-riskbehaviourson the road,could face penaltiesincluding 30-day vehicleimpounds,$483tickets,and thousands of dollarsintowingfeesand high-risk drivingpremiums, McLaughlin noted.

“Wewould much rather writeyou aticket forexcessive speeding or aggressive driving than have to tell your lovedonesthatyou died in acollision,” he said.

Well said.

Stay safe outthere.

THEBLURRYSMALL TOWN JOURNALISM LINE

It’s7p.m.on aFriday. I’mwalking to meet a girlfriend fordinnerwhenIspotacommunity member I’ve interviewed, someonewho recently pitchedmea storyidea. I’ve hadalongday.Long week. Long year.So Ilookthe otherway andpick up my pace

I’mnot proudofit. Buthereweare This is thestrange taxofsmall-townjournalism. I am areporterand acommunity member simultaneously,and thosetwo things do notalwayswantto share abody.

Otherprofessions have cleanerlimits. Atherapist hasappointmentsand fees andamutualagreementabout whethertowaveinthe grocerystore.A doctorgetsasked foradviceatdinnerparties and haspractisedlanguagefor deflecting—or, when somethingisactuallywrong,for stepping in.The roles arenegotiated. Mine aren’t,really.

Forjournalists,information is thewhole job. You cultivatesources,you stay curious, youmake yourselfreachable.And then youtry to go for dinner on aFridayand yousee someoneand you

do themathinabout half asecond: do Ihavethe capacity forthisright now?

Often, yes. Ilovemyjob.Ifileawaystory ideason weekends,onwalks,inthe middle of conversations aboutsomething else.The lifestylesuits me.But that also meansI’venever really builta wall, becauseI’venever been sure Iwantedone

Thejob doesn’tstopatthe endofmyshift anyway.Myphone is anewsroom. Ican’t open Instagramwithout asourcesitting in my DMs. I can’tscrollwithout clocking somethingthatshould probably be astory.I’vegiven outmynumber. I’ve messaged people from my personal accounts.The line betweenLiz-who-lives-hereand Liz-whocovers-thishas always been blurry,partlyby accident andpartlybychoice.

Andwhennewsbreaks, Iwanttobethere.That’s therush. That’s thepartthatmakes theblurryline worthit. It’s also occasionally thereasonmy partnerforgivesmefor breaking apromise to make dinner.

So do Iwanttotalkabout work when I’moff the clock? I’ve been turningthatoversince Friday night. Idon’t have aclean answer.I’m notsureI want one.

What Idoknow: if you’ve ever flaggedmedown, messaged me,orcaughtme at thetilltotellme aboutsomething goingoninthistown, thankyou. Even on FridayswhenIlookedthe otherway.

MOUNTAIN VIEWS LIZMCDONALD

Ha7lh skwálwen cht kwis emút cht iy sts’its’áp’ cht iy kw’shétsut cht na7tkwa temíxw tl’a Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw

(We have good feelings that we live, we work and we play on the lands of the Squamish Nation)

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

SHOCKED AND DISMAYED, REALLY, IN 2026?

Re: “Letter: Concerns raised after bears feed metres from pedestrians and children on Depot Road,” published online April 27

First of all, hello to friends and former co-workers

Doug Mills here, and yeah I would say shocked and dismayed in 1995 when we first arrived in Squamish from The Beaches area of east-end Toronto. (On Queen Street East where the rumbling of street cars rolled along on Queen Street.)

Never did we think we would live in such a great place as Squamish, for 26 years, and encounter wildlife the way we did

We lived for a few years on Zenith Road, then in the great cul-de-sac that was Wain Place.

(It was sad to see all that natural area behind us at Wain Place be developed, when the big homes went up on Dryden Road. I can remember vividly a mother and her kids one day balancing on my fence, reaching for and picking blackberries or bracken berries. When I hollered “leave them for the bears” the one kid lost their balance and fell into our yard.)

It’s not the bears’ fault; it’s ours.

I can tell you many situations involving bears between Squamish and driving transit in Whistler of bear interactions and almost every situation was caused by humans not thinking of the situation they found themselves in, or in general doing something without thinking of the consequences

I can remember when the Squamish municipality came out with the locked bins, and Whistler came out with the new public bear-proof garbage bins, the latter was way too long in coming

Again, I can remember an early morning while sitting in the bus waiting for my next time to leave the transit exchange As I walked around the bus, I heard a bit of commotion and at the crosswalk area of Blackcomb Way and Sundial Crescent the good-sized bear had tipped over the large round totally open at that time stone/ cement garbage bin and was on top rolling it towards the parking area, it was like watching a circus act.

Again, I’m sorry to say when I read “shocked and dismayed” we need to be more thoughtful of the bears and smarten up as to not cause dire consequences You are living in a rain forest, wild, mountains all around you.

Come on, powers-that-be, help the bears!

Doug Mills

Formerly of Squamish, now in East York /Toronto

PARK NOT HOUSING

Editor’s note: A version of this letter was sent to the District of Squamish mayor and council and copied to The Squamish Chief It has been lightly edited for length and accuracy

Iam writing concerning media reports of the possible location of modular housing on Xwúneḵw Park. I have been involved in some of the recent history of that site.

I was on council in the 2008 to 2011 council term when the District was able to secure the transfer of the lands from BC Rail properties. That was primarily due to the efforts of then-mayor Greg Gardner and then-MLA Joan Mcintyre, but it was the goal of the entire council. The common mantra in Squamish at that time was “access to water.” When the land became available, it became an immediate goal That land was the only possible public land on the Mamquam Blind Channel and the only access for the public to water until you reach the new park lands at the south end of the Oceanfront Squamish development.

I spent three more terms on council after that first term, retiring in 2022, and took part in many council discussions and public discussions concerning that site It was always intended to be a park

Other possible uses were never really considered. Indeed, the name reflects that Look at the sign on it Xwúneḵw Park Decisions were made to locate a building supporting the paddling community and put a canoe shed on site, uses consistent with park use. Contrary to what Mayor Armand Hurford suggests, it is not just a walkway and a dike. There is a ramp and float system to provide access to the water.

It is mostly complete now and can be viewed from adjacent lands. I don’t know the cost, but it would be an expensive piece of infrastructure It is not something you attach to a dike It is more consistent with park use. We had many discussions regarding the need for this for the park It was needed for access to the water for launching kayaks, paddleboards, etc. and the need for accessibility. There may not yet be a final design for the park yet, but you don’t need swings to make a site a park

There was a period of a few months in my last council term when modular housing was allowed on this site to accommodate a delay in opening the new Helping Hands building I don’t recall the exact timing but once the new building opened the site was decommissioned and the buildings were removed. From all accounts it was well managed during the time it was active.

This may be why BC Housing is looking at this site. However, what is proposed is not the same. I have heard the duration of this proposed use would be five years. When we used the site previously there was a clear plan for the length of time, a few months, and a clear future destination.

The users had a new building to go to. Also, at that time the site was undeveloped. Now, $18 million dollars of public money later, we are nearing completion of a park that will be the centrepiece of our downtown area What happens when the five years run out? Where is the plan to replace it? Or will it just stay in place?

I believe Squamish is a compassionate community. In my almost 50 years of working and living here, I have seen countless examples of that While we may have compassion for those less fortunate who live among us, we must balance that with good land-use planning to avoid conflicts and with the general public good This site was intended to accommodate and serve the entire community, not just a few.

I am sure there could be other sites more suitable in our community than a waterfront park for the proposed use. But wherever it might be, don’t put it in a park.

Doug Race Squamish

How often do you leave Squamish for your kids’ (or your own) sports/training? (Top 3 answers)

Squamish cabinet maker wins provincial gold, heads to nationals MOST READ STORY

This week, check out reporter Liz McDonald’s video featuring herring spawn surveyors on Howe Sound. Find this and many other relevant local videos on our TikTok channel @squamishchief

Turning alegacysiteintoa foundation forthe future.

WoodﬁbreLNGisproud to be recognized as one of EnvironmentJournal’sTop 25 Remediation Projects in Canada —amilestone that reﬂects years of careful planning, collaboration, and environmental responsibility.

170,000 tonnes Historically contaminated soil removed

Find outmore at woodﬁbrelng.ca/environment

4,000+ Creosotepiles removed from foreshore

$50 million

Invested in brownﬁeld site remediation

ECSTATIC DANCE COMMUNITY OFFERS SOBER, EMBODIED CONNECTION

Dance Temple Squamish draws 30 to 50 people each week to move freely, without alcohol or judgment

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

If attendees had to use one word to describe their weekly experience at Squamish United Church, it would have to be “ecstatic.”

Each Thursday, anywhere from 30 to 50 people flow in to move their bodies without words, with attendees saying it’s a safe space that permits liberating self-expression. Families with young children, elders and everyone in between slip off their shoes and ground onto the dance floor.

While many dance-based events focus on specific styles, like salsa or heels, and most venues focus on customers spending money and consuming alcohol, Dance Temple Squamish has provided a space for people seeking conscious connection with themselves and others

Leo Gaillard volunteers for the dance, and she says the practice altered how she moves throughout the world.

“I definitely have noticed a sense of confidence and freedom that has gone beyond dance. So even in my movement, the way that I move around, even in spaces that I wouldn’t have normally felt free, and especially with no

alcohol,” she said Gaillard plays Australian football, a sport grounded in pub and beer culture. She recalls feeling like she would need to consume alcohol to engage in dancing. That’s not the case anymore.

“Now I feel like I can just really fully dance and enjoy, make the most of myself and my time, and

not drink, and I think that that freedom that’s really opened my eyes to the way that I can go on about my life with more consciousness.”

‘LET THE BODY LEAD’

Ecstatic dance is a global community of conscious dancing. Its modern history began in 2000, when a man named Max Fathom went to Burning Man. Fathom already had a background in this style of dance, but at the time, the dance style didn’t involve techno.

“Here, he fell in love with this new electronic music, and set about to blend the two,” according to the history on Ecstatic Dance’s website.

When attending a practice, the event begins and ends with practising consent. People gather in a circle, briefly introducing themselves and their emotional landscapes, and they agree to silently communicate interest in dancing through body language Then they silently move,

or stay stationary, or stretch, or experience the space however they so desire

Rain Rovtar is a local facilitator and dancer with Luminesque Dance. What draws her back again and again is having a space where the mind can finally loosen its grip

“There are no rules. It is just freedom, and it is a deeply embodied process where there’s a nice, slow build to enter into the music, to enter into your body. So you really get to take that time and have that intimacy with yourself and the space and the music and as the journey builds, as the music builds, as the energy builds, as your own body warms up more and you deepen into yourself, the sensory experience really expands, and you’re able to move through and release any holdings or sticky bits.”

HOW TO DANCE FREELY

Each week, a different DJ drives the dance through their unique sound. No phones are permitted to ensure people can feel comfortable moving just as they are.

The gathering meets from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each Thursday, and through the summer months, events will be held outside.

To learn more, visit www. dancetemplesquamish.ca.

BritanniaMine Museum gratefullyacknowledges their communitysponsors:

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEO GAILLARD

Dance Temple Squamish’s space offers a relaxing atmosphere to connect with music, self and others

IMedieval

s your child looking for a unique experience at day camp this year? Have you considered signing them up for a themed camp? Let their interests and preferences be your guide. Here are a few possibilities.

Is your little one fascinated by stories about knights in the Middle Ages? A medieval day camp may provide weekly experiences grounded in fantasy stories that captivate their imagination. A narrative framework can be used to organize various themed activities like foam sword fights, archery, puzzles or games of skill.

Museum

Children who are interested in painting, drawing, performance or archeology will love a day camp organized by municipal or regional museums in your area. They’ll have opportunities to visit exhibitions or participate in workshops, such as period costume design. There are so many ways for your child to express their creativity!

Scientific

Does your little boy or girl love to mix everyday ingredients together like a lab experiment?

Science day camps, often organized by local high schools, colleges or universities, give children the unique opportunity to visit real-life laboratories under the oversight of actual scientists.

Themed day camps: a host of choices for your child

For truly original activities that take place in a safe environment with professional, responsible supervision, register your child for a themed day camp today!

Many summer jobs are available for students when the school year ends, including various positions in summer camps. Here are three advantages of working at a day camp.

1. You can have fun while you work.

Diverse activities and games are on the agenda every day at day camp. Choosing this job ensures you have a stimulating and entertaining summer

In short, working at a day camp has many advantages The same goes for other camps; you’ll have to experience them to find out!

2. You form a close bond with your colleagues.

Leading and participating in activities requires working together as a team, enabling you to foster close-knit friendships with the children and other leaders.

3. You can make the most of your summer.

Unlike sleepaway camps that require you to stay on-site for the duration of the camp, day camps need you to work only during the day. This means you can enjoy your evenings and weekends with friends and family.

Toolbo

Summer camp is much more than a chance for children to spend a week—or several—away from home. It can be a transformative experience for your child. Have you considered enrolling your little one in a summer getaway? Here are of th be fits holida offe young people

3 surprising benefits of summer camps

1. Improved social skills

A little time away from the family environment gives children a chance to meet new people and make friends. They develop their ability to communicate others, which will serve them well as build fulfilling relationships ughout their lives.

motional self-regulation

en a child is removed from their daily tine, they become more aware of how r actions affect other people. By ning to express feelings of ppointment or frustration without sorting to acting out or insulting others, ey can improve their ability to manage eir emotions in healthy ways e advantage is twofold: your child arns to express difficult emotions

appreciation positive interactions.

effectively, and they also gain an appreciation for positive interaction Parents often observe increased enthusiasm and sociability in their children after they return home from camp

3. Healthy independence

Your child can increase their self-worth from the sense of satisfaction they feel after participating in activities or facing new challenges outside of home or school Their improved self-esteem can help them feel more self-sufficient, which may prove useful when they shift into post-secondary studies or move away from home.

In short, summer camp can truly help your child move more confidently through the world. Explore the option available to you!

Newspaper Tool options Toolbox

BUILD. CREATE. EXPLORE!

DHow to choose a day camp for a child with special needs

o you have a child with special needs and want to find a camp that’ll cater to them? Here’s some information to help guide your search.

Traditional day camp

Are you considering enrolling your kid in a traditional day camp where they can participate in “regular” activities?

If so, contact the camp organizers beforehand to find out if they can make specific accommodations They may be able to make physical adjustments tailored to the needs of your child. Additionally, they may be able to arrange smaller groups or hire additional

helpers for increased supervision.

Specialized day camp

If you choose a specialized day camp, you can rest assured knowing your child has adequate supervision in an environment adapted to their needs. The camp will already have measures to ensure your child’s experience is pleasant and enriching. It’s best to meet with the camp organizers ahead of time You can inform the staff of your child’s needs so they can prepare for their arrival.

Before registering your child for day camp, contact the organizers and confirm they can accommodate your child’s specific needs. This’ll ensure your kid has a fantastic summer and give you peace of mind

Newspaper Toolbox

PET FIRST AID COMES TO SQUAMISH

Hosted by the BC SPCA Sea to Sky, the event this fall teaches pet owners how to aid their distressed pet

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

Calling all adventurous pet owners: the SPCA has a pet first-aid course this fall. Perhaps it’s a treat gone wrong, or the more serious issue of a dog eating illicit substances on the trail.

At the BC SPCA Sea to Sky, Walks N’ Wags will welcome course attendees to learn how to protect their pet from a host of harms.

Walks N’ Wags has been teaching people how to perform first aid on animals since 2003, and was founded by Lisa Wagner

Her classes include essential topics like:

- immediate response in an emergency

- pet first-aid kit packing

- approaching injured animals

- head-to-toe assessments

- restraining and transporting hurt animals

- knowing the signs of common illness and injury

- bone, ear and eye injuries

- choking skill and artificial respiration

- chest compressions

- poisoning, cold and heat-related health concerns

- medications

Meet Chevy

The program is regularly reviewed by a veterinarian panel for accuracy and up-to-date information. Rescuers can practice on a stuffed animal and receive first-aid supplies, or they can bring their own registered animal

Visit the SPCA to register

Chevycouldn’twaittomeet everyone when he arrivedatthe SeatoSky center.Heissuper sweet andhas thebestchirpsand purrs. Chevyishappiestwhenhanging out withpeopleand getting some good qualitytimepreferablyina lap. We don’t know howhewill be with children, butheis comfortablearoundadultsfor sure.Comeand meet Chevyand seejust howwonderful he really is.

(2 year old, neutered male.)

From backyardrenovationstointerior refreshes, the"to-do" lists aregrowing. Will your business be theone to helpthem checkoff the boxes? Position yourbrand at theheartofthe season.

Secure your spot in our Home & GardenFeature nowand stay ahead of thecompetition!

PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Calling all Sea to Sky pet owners: a ﬁrst-aid course is coming to Squamish this fall

PHOTO BY BRIAN AIKENS ABOUT A LOCAL: A Squamish wood duck in its element.

CLASSIFIEDS

With greatsadness, we announce the passing of

Douq Barnfield

On April18th, 2026 sixdaysafterhis 81st birthday

Maxine “Max” Milligan

Maxine“Max”Milligan passed away peacefullyonApril 27,2026, in Vancouver,British Columbia,atthe ageof 73.

Born in Barrie, Ontario, on February19, 1953, Max built alife defined by warmth, generosity,and connection. She spent her entire career with the Royal Bank, where she became much more than afamiliar face—she was abreath of fresh air to clients, colleagues, and friends alike. Her easy smile, quick wit, and genuine care made people feel seen and valued. Max made her home in Squamish, a place she loved deeply She was an active and enthusiastic member of the community, always volunteering, organizing, or lending ahand wherever it was needed. Nothing brought her more joy than sharing the beauty of Squamish with others—whether long-time residents or first-time visitors.

She greeted the world with laughter,kindness, and areadiness to help. Her love was steady and generous, and she had away of making everyone feel like family.Her beloved dogs, Chad, Bo, and Barney,were constant companions,bringing her comfort— especially during her long hospital stays.

Max faced the challenges of recent years with remarkable courage, following complications from adouble lung transplant on October 31, 2023. Through it all, she was never alone. Her devoted husband, Mick Gottardi, stood by her side every step of the way—a partnership rooted in deep love, care, and gratitude that Max spoke of often and cherished always. She will be lovingly remembered by Mick; her sister Brenda Fuhrman and brother-in-law Jim of London, Ontario; her nephew Josh Fuhrman and his wife Sandra of Montreal, Quebec; her niece Emily Fuhrman of London, Ontario. Her goddaughter Samantha Stewart; her godsons Jimmy Stewart and his wife Emma, and Travis Stewart; her "sisters from another mister" Cindy Kemp and Linda Jones; and awide circle of dear friends whose lives were brighter because of her The family extends heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Vancouver General Hospital for their compassion and dedication.

Max had away of saying what mattered most, often reminding those she loved, “Ilove you more”—and shelived that truth everyday,giving of herself “to the max.” Acelebration of Max’slife will be held later this summer

Dougwas a 3rdgeneration Barnfield born andraisedinSquamish. He took hismachinist apprenticeshipatthe railway, andthenlater went to Woodfiber in 1971. He also had asmall sawsharpingbusinessinhis sparetime. His hobbies when youngerweremotorcycles,fishing, andworking on cars.Doug’s passions were hisfamilytravelinginhis motorhomesand hishome. Doug always had aproject on thegoofsomesortand it wasalways, done to perfection

Survived by hiswifeDarlene of almost 60 years, Sons Dave (Trish), Darren (Mike), Granddaughters Dara (Adam), andRebecca (Kenny). GrandsonsCarter, Spencer, Great Grandson Stoneand histwo furchildren Remi andPoppy

NOTICE OF INTENT

RE: LIQUOR CONTROL AND LICENSING ACT APPLICATION FOR ALOUNGE ENDORSEMENT

Application for alounge has been received by theLiquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch from Glass Half Full Beverages Ltd. located at Unit 114-1111 Pioneer Way, in Squamish.

Proposed licensed hours are 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM, daily

Person capacity will be limited to 10 persons (interior only).

Residents located within a0.5-mile (0.8 km) radius of the proposed site may comment on this proposal by:

1) Writing to:

The General Manager

C/O Senior Licensing Analyst

Liquorand Cannabis Regulation Branch PO Box9292

Victoria, BC V8W 9J8

2) Email to: LCRB.SLA@gov.bc.ca

PETITIONS AND FORM LETTERS WILL NOTBECONSIDERED

To ensure the consideration of your views, your comments, nameand address must be received on or before May 30th,2026.

Please note thatyour comments may be made available to the applicant or local government officials where disclosure is necessary to administerthe licensing process.

BUILDING OUR COMMUNITY

Employee Health &WellnessPlan available

HEAVY EQUIPMENTOPERATOR – Minimum5years or 5,000hours operatingexperienceonexcavator.Crushing Experience preferred. Full-time,Monday –Friday. $33-$46per hour.

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER – Greatopportunity to learnon-thejob.Stamina forphysically demanding work andperseverance to brave inclementweather required. Previous experience preferred but not required. Training provided. $28-$33 per hour.

PIPELAYER –Minimum 5years experienceincivil construction. Full-time, Monday –Friday. $33-$43 per hour

TRUCK DRIVER –BCDL Class1 or Class3with airbrakes required. Manual transmission. 2years experience preferred. $35-$41.50 per hour

HEAVY DUTY EQUIPMENT MECHANIC – Whistler, RedSealCertified, CommercialTruck &Transport, Transport Trailer required. CVSE Inspector’s ticket, AirConditioning ticket, Class1or3with airbrakes, andseveral years’ experiencepreferred. $40.19-$42.43 per hour

The SeatoSky corridor’stop civil constructioncompany.

We arecurrentlyrecruiting professionally minded peopletojoinour team:

•Pipe Layers $25-$45per hour

•Construction Labourers $25-$30per hour

•Heavy Equipment Operators $35-$45 per hour

*Competitive wages, extended health benefits (after 3months)

Email resume to: info@whistlerexcavations.com

The Museumis currently seeking

Retail& Visitor Services Manager

Responsiblefor driving earned revenuethrough retail, ticketing andgeneral membership; deliveringanexceptionalvisitor experience; andleading frontof-house operations andstaff.

Theposition will remain posted untilfilled. Applicationswillbe reviewedonanongoing basis, and candidatesare encouraged to applyassoon as possible.

Apply

Photo: Kat Moffat

39.Couch

42. Good-natured 43. Eager 44.Scholastic

49.Brisk wind

50.Number of bowling frames

51. Delicate fabric

52. Shade sources

53.Racetrack feature 54. At no cost

1. Not he 2. “____ Joey” 3. Bar order 4. Gun, as an engine 5. Meteout 6. Golf clubs 7. French caps 8. Apart 9. Always

10.Get together

11. Signs

16. Attire

20.Swindle

21. Faintly colored

22.Picnic pests

24.Guaranteed

26.Waterfalls

28. Plunders

29.Humdinger

30.Halt!

34. House of Congress

35. Pienuts

37.Bad habits

39.Wise seasoning?

40.President’sofficeshape

41.Flick

45. Sprite

46. Blemish

47.Rink surface

48. So-so grade

Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling

LASTWEEK’SANSWERS:

HOROSCOPE WEEK OF MAY7,2026-MAY 13,2026

ARIES March 21-April 19

Youmay feel irritable and impatientwith situations that fail to progress.Restlessnightscould intensify the confusion. Taking astrategic step back will help you regain calm and clarify your priorities

TAURUS April 20-May20

Ameetingorlarge gathering will strengthen your sense of responsibility. You’ll grow your clientbase, boosting your income.Aperiodof abundance is onthe horizon. You’ll be rewarded foryour effortsand gain greater financial stability.

GEMINI May21-June 20

Unexpecteddelayswilltestyour patienceatworkandindailylife. Aprojectthatdemandsfocusand precisionwillcommandyour attention.Acceptingthewaitwill helpyounavigatethesetemporary challenges.

CANCER June 21-July 22

Plan yourvacation earlytoavoid inconveniences and limited availabilityinday camps. A promisingproject will place you in the spotlight, bringing recognition and achance to shine

LEO July 23-Aug. 22

Asituationwillinspiredeep self-reflection.Thisperiodof introspectionwillleadtonewand excitingprofessionalandpersonal goals.Afterdoingthisinnerwork, you’llhavetheopportunityto celebrateyourachievements.

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept.22

Abuddingrelationshipcould quicklybecomeserious,potentiallyleadingtoaformalcommitment. Yourpartnerwillpleasantly surpriseyou.Meanwhile,you’ll successfullyclinchanimportant negotiation,strengtheningyour confidenceandsenseofaccomplishment.

LIBRA Sept.23-Oct. 22

Visualizingyourgoalswill bringfast,tangibleresults.You mustfullytrustinthelawof attractiontomoveforwardwith confidence.You’llalsoexcelat analyzingcomplexfinancial mattersoragreements

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21

You’llreceiveunexpected recognitionthathighlights yourtalents.Thiswillmotivate youtosetyoursightsoneven biggerandbetterthings.This self-assurancewillallowyouto moveforwardwithconfidence andpride

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21

Youmaybethinkingaboutmoving.Thiswillpromptyoutoplan yournextsteps.Beingorganized willsaveyouvaluabletime.An interestincomfort-enhancing renovationswillarise.You’llspend alotofyourtimeandenergyon makingchangestoyourhome.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan.19

Communicationandtravel couldcausestressanddelays, soplanahead!Makesureyou havealternativetraveloptionsto avoidmajorsetbacks.Yourquick thinkingandpracticalitywillhelp youturnobstaclesintomere bumpsintheroad.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb.18

You’llreceiveanofferforan enrichingtrainingprogramoran excitingproject.You’llhavethe financialandmaterialresources youneedtosucceed.You’llbuild asolidfoundationtosecure yourfutureandstrengthenyour professionalpath.

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20

Yourdeterminationwillgreatly increaseyourchancesofsuccess. Ifyoudaretotakethefirststep, opportunitieswillquicklyfollow. Thispowerfulmomentumwill carryyousteadilytowardyour personalandprofessionalgoals

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 numbersto getyou started. Remember: youmust not repeat the numbers1through 9in the same line, column or 3x3box