GRANTED APPEAL STANDING IN FORTISBC EFFLUENT PERMIT CASE
The Environmental Appeal Board has ruled that only one of three anti-LNG activists may proceed with an appeal against a FortisBC effluent discharge permit
BOB MACKIN For The Squamish Chief
One of the three Citizens for My Sea to Sky (MS2S) anti-Woodfibre LNG activists was granted standing to appeal the B.C. Energy Regulator’s March 2024 effluent discharge permit to FortisBC Energy Inc.
Environmental Appeal Board (EAB) panel chair
Subodh Chandra ruled Sept. 3 in favour of Charlene Williams, but not MS2S or fellow members Spencer Fitschen and Tracey Saxby.
Under the Environmental Management Act, “a person aggrieved by a decision of a director or district director may appeal the decision” to the EAB.
EAB: Continued on 2
EAB:
Continued from 1
“In addition to being affiliated with MS2S, Ms. Williams is a member of Squamish First Nation, lives nearby, and has provided evidence to support that her (and her son’s and grandfather’s) hereditary rights will be adversely affected by the permit,” Chandra wrote. “As I have already stated, as there are no submissions otherwise, the board will accept that the issue of standing of Charlene Williams is not in dispute and confirm that she has standing to appeal the decision.”
The permit authorizes FortisBC to discharge effluent during the Eagle Mountain Pipeline Tunnel construction project from a wastewater system at Woodfibre LNG and the BC Rail site in Squamish.
The tunnel will connect to the Woodfibre LNG plant, which is currently under construction.
Effluent discharge is subject to limits on the amount and quality, and the permit requires monitoring and reporting. Discharge must be free of contaminants in concentrations that may adversely impact the environment, and FortisBC must ensure it meets the requirements of federal agencies, including Environment Canada and the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).
In August 2024, the board decided it would address the issue of appeal standing for MS2S and asked for submissions from Williams, Fitschen and Saxby. FortisBC opposed MS2S being given standing, but did not take a position on the individuals.
According to Chandra, MS2S claimed it was not properly consulted during the permit issuance process and that the process was unfair.
“This is not a sufficient reason to be granted standing,” Chandra decided. Neither is it sufficient for someone to demand standing to make an appeal “just because” they have been involved in the
If the work goes ahead under the permit as approved, she will not be interested in recreating at this site.
SUBODH CHANDRA
regulatory process.
Fitschen and Saxby’s affidavit evidence included subjective beliefs that potentially contaminated discharge would cause them to stop water-based recreation and fishing. Saxby specifically cited her kiteboarding, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding activities in the Squamish River, downstream from the BC Rail site.
“She submits that, as with other water sports, it is impossible to avoid ingesting some water when someone falls off or are splashed. If the work goes ahead under the permit as approved, she will not be interested in recreating at this site,” Chandra wrote.
Fitschen and Saxby, Chandra ruled, “have not demonstrated objective evidence that a reasonable person would fail to engage in water-based recreational activities or fishing based on the decision.”
There is also no evidence to show how or why the decision prevents MS2S or its members from continuing the campaign to protect the Howe Sound environment or criticize Woodfibre LNG. Moreover, it does not prevent MS2S or its members from mobilizing around key events, prepare permit application responses or communicate with regulators and partner organizations, the decision said.
PHOTO BY BRIAN AIKENS
SMOKE ON THE WATER: The thick wildfire smoke last week made breathing tough for some humans, and gave an eerie glow to the Squamish landscape.
Carter
GOT NEWS?
Email your news tip or story idea to: jthuncher@squamishchief.com inapace@squamishchief.com
WILDFIRE FIREFIGHTERS FRUSTRATED WITH CIVILIAN DRONE INTERFERENCE
Stinson Aerial Service is contracted to B.C. Wildfire to fly drones over fires and produce infrared reports
WILL JOHNSON
For The Squamish Chief
The potential for drones to assist in fighting wildfires is immense, but the potential to harm firefighting efforts and interfere with existing operations is also a real possibility.
This week it’s been reported that a BC Wildfire Service bird dog plane was struck by a civilian drone during operations to fight a raging wildfire near Kamloops.
The drone was flying in restricted airspace.
During Squamish’s Dryden Creek wildfire in June, a drone flying too close to responders was also an issue.
“What we’re trying to tell people is if there’s a wildfire, you need to be 5 nautical miles (9.3 km) from the edge of the wildfire,” said Tim Stinson, general manager of Stinson Aerial Services.
TRAGIC LONG WEEKEND
Labour Day weekend was a tragic one in the Sea to Sky Corridor for the family and friends of two men after two separate fatal incidents.
A spokesperson for Sea to Sky RCMPSquamish says that on Sunday, Aug. 31, police were contacted about a missing man in the water at Porteau Cove at about 5:18 p.m., according to an RCMP release.
Members of Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, the Coast Guard, BC Emergency Health Services, and Lions Bay Fire Rescue were able to locate the man, but he had died, the release states.
On Sept. 1, a man died in a vehicle crash at approximately 9:30 p.m. on the highway between Squamish and Whistler. Sea to Sky RCMP-Squamish, Integrated
Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service (ICARS), Squamish Fire Rescue, and BC Emergency Health Services responded to the crash involving a motorcycle and an SUV. The individual was declared deceased at the scene.
At this time, Mounties say no further details will be released as both matters remain under investigation.
Stinson is contracted by BC Wildfire to fly drones over the fires during the night and create infrared reports. His operation typically takes a two-man team who have gone through extensive training on the equipment and proper communication.
Having civilians in their airspace can be frustrating.
The penalty for flying a drone in restricted airspace during a wildfire includes a $100,000 fine or a year in jail.
“There’s a lot of moving pieces on the ground and in the air we might not all be aware of,” he said.
“But the drones we see at [drug stores] can do quite a bit and can go quite far without people realizing.”
If you see someone operating a drone near a wildfire, Stinson feels it’s best to make a report to the RCMP.
“We’ve found that interfacing with the individual is not always the best way to go, so it’s easier to go straight to the RCMP to let them know somebody’s operating in restricted airspace.”
While the RCMP release does not state the location of the crash, it matches a collision that closed the highway for several hours in both directions between the Alice Lake Provincial Park turn-off and Cat Lake on Monday night.
“The Squamish RCMP extend condolences to the families and friends impacted by these tragedies,” the release states.
PHOTO COURTESY OF STINSON AERIAL SERVICES Having civilian drones in the same airspace as professionals who are helping crews fight wildfires can be frustrating, but also dangerous, o cials say.
MINISTRY PLEDGES DIALOGUE AFTER CN ANNOUNCES RAILWAY CUTS
A controversial move by Canadian National Railway (CN) has prompted a call for urgent consultations from the District, as officials warn that dismantling parts of the local railway could have long-term consequences
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@squamishchief.com
Mayor Armand Hurford has penned a letter expressing concern and requesting consultation with the Ministry of Transportation and Transit over the decommissioning of portions of the Canadian National Railway Company (CN) rail line through the Sea to Sky Corridor.
On July 11, CN sent a letter to the District of Squamish via Chief Administrative Officer Linda Glenday.
The letter, which was attached to a July council agenda, stated that the company was decommissioning the Squamish railway from Mile 43 to Mile 157.60 and the Lillooet line from Mile 157.60 to Mile 257.
“Canada’s railways fund and maintain their own infrastructure of rail, ties, bridges, and the right of way, including vegetation control,” reads the letter. “Where there is not sufficient rail traffic, railways cannot invest sufficient capital to maintain safe and efficient operations. Unfortunately, that is the situation we are dealing with on the portions of these
Subdivisions,” the letter from CN continues. “Traffic volumes on these lines have fallen dramatically in recent years and are now far below levels needed to maintain the lines.”
The letter also noted that CN will be retaining the portion of the railway in Squamish from Mile 0 to Mile 43, as well as from Mile 257 to 312.90 in Lillooet.
In his letter to Minister Mike Farnworth, dated Aug. 22, Hurford said the District urges the ministry to convene consultations with the municipalities, regional districts, and First Nations that will be impacted by CN’s move.
“These rail corridors are vital infrastructure with far-reaching benefits that are at risk,” he wrote.
He added that economic development, regional mobility, and climate resilience were areas that were at risk.
“Reliable freight access supports local innovation, product distribution, and market access - especially critical given current trade uncertainties,” he said.
“While discontinuance may open the door to future passenger rail use, removal of rails and ties would make restoration prohibitively expensive. Preserving and maintaining the
CN: Continued on 5
NEW SCHOOL MEAL PROGRAM SUPPORTS STUDENT HEALTH AND LOCAL AGRICULTURE
A new collaboration between Squamish Climate Action Network and School District No. 48 is bringing fresh, ecofriendly meals into classrooms across the region
WILL JOHNSON
For The Squamish Chief
An ambitious school meal program is ensuring that students from seven schools in the Sea to Sky Corridor will have access to climate-conscious, locally grown food, starting on Sept. 15.
Parents will be given the menu for each month after opting into the program for the year. Designed to be inclusive, the meals will be free for families that are unable to pay and are otherwise by donation.
The suggested monthly contribution is $120 per month, per student, which is about $6 per lunch.
“We’re focused on launching the program so food can reach as many kids as possible. We’re not able to accommodate allergies now, but we’re hoping to in the future,” said Krystle tenBrink, executive director of Squamish Climate Action Network (CAN).
“About half of the meals are vegetarian, and we’re purchasing from two local farms minimum.”
An example of lunches for September includes tomato soup with turkey and cheddar sandwich, and chicken salad wrap with carrots and ranch.
The food will be prepared and packaged at the District’s The 55 Activity Centre commercial kitchen as part of a five-year lease, and will be overseen by Squamish CAN. The project is a collaboration with School District 48.
Squamish CAN is working with the 55+ Community Society to support their catering needs for this year, and is excited for this new relationship,” tenBrink added.
The move to Squamish CAN is a transition of a school meals program over from Squamish Helping Hands.
“Since 2017, the school meals program has been a very important part of our community-led solutions to create a safe and healthy community for everyone in Squamish,” said
Lori Pyne, executive director of Squamish Helping Hands, in a news release. “It is with great confidence that we transition operations to Squamish CAN as we know they are committed to an integrated approach founded on environmental integrity and shared responsibility to feed vulnerable children and youth.”
While Squamish CAN is no stranger to ambitious projects, this is a big one even by its standards.
“This is by far the biggest project we’ve ever taken on. It almost doubles our operation. We have a new team of staff and volunteers who will be joining us on Monday to start training,” said tenBrink.
Squamish CAN believes in mitigating climate change through developing food networks and sourcing ingredients locally. This program makes students active participants in these goals.
“Climate-conscious meals mean it’s an
LUNCH: Continued on 5
PHOTO BY NINA LAFLAMME PHOTOGRAPHY
Head chef Michael Staveley preparing a school lunch.
PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF. The CN rail line just after Mile-44.
CN: Continued from 4
infrastructure now protects long-term transit options and aligns with the Ministry’s commitment to safe, affordable transportation,” he continued.
“Continued rail access to Squamish’s port is essential. The line proved critical during the 2021 floods, offering supply chain redundancy in challenging terrain—a necessity in building resilience to climate change.
Hurford’s letter is attached to council’s agenda for its Sept. 2 regular meeting.
COUNCILLOR COMMENTS
At council that night, Coun. Eric Andersen said the potential for passenger rail has been overblown since the news of the discontinuance was announced.
“The reality is that freight pays for passenger rail,” he said. “And it will never be different in the province of B.C. We are not a high-density urban area like in the middle of Europe.”
He added that the reality is the issue is about the survival of a portion of the rail line that would serve “future shippers to the north of us, including First Nations communities involved in industries, as well as for the potential passenger rail in the future.”
He stressed the importance of access to the port and Site B to and from the north.
Coun. Chris Pettingill countered that perhaps the way the cost related to passenger rail is thought of should shift.
“I think what has been said maybe makes
LUNCH: Continued from 4
opportunity to have more vegetarian meals, more dairy-free options, and a minimum of 30% of the food is purchased within B.C., with fruits and vegetables where possible coming from Squamish and Pemberton,” tenBrink said.
Making the meals accessible to everyone is a huge priority of this program.
School families will receive a form from their school to complete and return. At any time they can opt out of the program by notifying their school clerk.
Also offered by Squamish CAN, school breakfast clubs will be continuing—without enrolment.
“Inclusive, universal school meals are about more than just food—they’re about dignity, equity, and community,” tenBrink said.
“We are so happy to see the Provincial Feeding Futures and National School Food Program catalyze these partnerships, strengthening communities’ ability to provide healthy meals and strengthen local food systems.”
DELICIOUS AND NUTRITIOUS
The School Meal Program has been enthusiastically embraced by School District 48, as it will radically alter how their students eat every day.
“We are thrilled to partner with Squamish CAN to ensure students in our Squamish
sense in our current accounting of costs and benefits and what things we choose to ignore in that,” he said. “And if we look at the highway [and] the ongoing costs of all the vehicles on it, the lost opportunity in time, loss of lives, and the billions and billions of dollars that I think inevitably go in many indirect ways into that highway. ...What if we put a major chunk of that into passenger rail, the math might work out differently.”
MINISTRY’S RESPONSE
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Transportation and Transit told The Squamish Chief that Farnworth has expressed similar concerns to CN and plans to meet with the railway about this issue.
“He will also encourage CN to meet with the communities that will be impacted by their decision,” the spokesperson said.
“As CN made the unilateral decision to decommission portions of the railway, it is incumbent on CN to initiate consultations with local communities and First Nations.”
Separately, the provincial government is working on long-term options and approaches for rural, regional and inter-city transportation, including along the Sea to Sky Corridor, the spokesperson noted in the Sept. 5 email.
“In the short-term, ministry staff have been continuing discussions with local partners, including local governments, First Nations and BC Transit, to determine options and a path forward for implementation of regular local transit along the Sea to Sky Corridor.”
schools have access to delicious, nutritious food,” said School District No. 48 Supt. Chris Nicholson, in the release about the program.
“This program is a major step forward in supporting student well-being and achievement. We remain committed to providing food programs in all communities served by the district and are excited to grow and enhance these services in the years ahead.”
Mayor Armand Hurford has also thrown his support behind the project.
“We are proud to be able to assist Squamish CAN in helping to provide nourishing meals to our children across the district. On behalf of council and district staff, we send our gratitude … to Squamish CAN for taking on this important role,” he said, in the release.
“It is heartwarming to live in a town where so many community-driven organizations help make Squamish the wonderful place that it is.”
The next step in the project is seeking out the support of more community members, local businesses and farmers through food donations, volunteer time and financial support. They’re hoping to raise $50,000 to support purchasing a vehicle for the daily meal deliveries.
Volunteers interested in getting involved should email head chef Michael Staveley at chef@squamishcan.net.
“This is a community-powered program,” said tenBrink. “If you believe in feeding kids and caring for the planet, we invite you to be part of this movement.”
FARMERS ON DUTY OPENS ROUND-THE-CLOCK GROCERY STORE
‘The whole space is yours,’ says Katie Salzborn of Farmers On Duty as she explains how customers can now shop alone—any time of day or night—at their newly launched self-service market on Mamquam Road
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@squamishchief.com
It’s 10 p.m., and you suddenly realize you have no fruit for the kids’ lunches the next day.
Previously, with local stores closed, you would be out of luck and the kids left with whatever you had on hand.
This is the kind of scenario the folks at Farmers On Duty aim to solve with their newest initiative.
They have opened Squamish’s first 24-hour, self-serve grocery store at The Local Barn, in the Squamish Town Hub, near Locavore Bar & Grill, on Mamquam Road.
Owner Felipe Hidalgo says the company’s second location was finding that the clientele wanted to come in at various hours, making it tricky to staff.
Going 24-hours serves the growing and busy community best, he said.
“We are in the essential industry, and for this reason, we are open 24 hours—because when
SEPTEMBER 20 2025 10AM-2PM AT THEEND OF SPIT RD
you have essentials, similar to a pharmacy, do you need it open 24 hours?”
The store offers the basics, milk, bread— including gluten-free—fruit, vegetables and fish, and other items, such as honey.
The products are sourced as close to home as possible; for example, the honey comes from Lillooet.
HOW IT WORKS
Farmers on Duty’s Katie Salzborn walked through how it works for a first-time customer.
First, the customer uses a cellphone with internet access to scan the QR code at the door.
A link pops up on the phone asking for an email address.
Once an email is entered, an unlock button will pop up and the door can be opened.
The first time takes about 45 seconds to get in.
After that, because the email is already entered, it takes even less than that.
Once inside, customers can shop for what they need.
“The whole space is yours. It’s like your private little store with all your things. So we have meat, cheese, dairy—all the eggs, all the dairy is shipped weekly here. It’s all super fresh,” she said.
“You just basically grab what you need and go to the self-checkout.”
At the kiosk checkout, customers search for and enter the items on the display, and then pay.
It is a cashless system, so a credit or banking card is required.
Customers are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags, though there are paper bags available.
“Voila!” Salzborn said after demonstrating how to check out.
“The door is open for you, and so you just have to make sure the door is completely shut.” WON’T THINGS BE STOLEN?
Asked about the possibility of people stealing from the store, Hidalgo responds basically that there is trust that is then verified.
“[Squamish] is a very good and strong community,” he says. “This is the first thing. We believe in the people.”
That belief in the goodness of locals is also backed up by installed security, including several cameras.
Hidalgo also believes that people face personal karma if they choose to be dishonest.
“If the people steal ... when they go off outside, bad things are coming in their life,” he says.
The store has been operating a little over a week and so far, there has been no theft, he adds.
“In the first week, absolutely no people stole nothing. We love Squamish, we love the community, and we believe in the people, especially when the people have a good thing,” he says.
He says that so far, the response from the public has been very positive.
Customers have been taking advantage of the 24-hour offerings. Most customers have been visiting between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., as well as early mornings.
The original Queens Way location remains staffed, as it isn’t practical to transition to self-serve there, where there are 1,000 or more items on offer and at greater quantities, Hidalgo says.
Follow Farmers on Duty on Instagram, Facebook, or its website.
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.
PHOTOS BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF (Left) Felipe Hidalgo and Katie Salzborn of Farmers On Duty, outside the 24-hour location.
LOCAL WRITER ROXANNE DAVIES SHARES SPIRITUAL JOURNEY TO INVESTIGATE MOTHER’S DEATH
Squamish Library presentation on Sept. 18 will cover memoir-writing and grief
WILL JOHNSON
For The Squamish Chief
“The best memoirs are the ones with a sucker punch.”
These are the words of Roxanne Davies, the Squamish-based author of The Blue Riviera, A daughter’s Investigation. And for her latest non-fiction book, she has an emotionally potent premise: the untimely death of her mother, Sally Tomiuk, in a late-night car crash, back in the 1950s.
Davies was only eight at the time.
“The hinge moment for this book is I wanted to figure out what happened to my mother the night she died. She left the Dorchester Hotel in Montreal at 2 a.m. to drive home and never made it,” Davies told The Squamish Chief.
“Nobody ever talked about her. She was this beautiful ghost. I guess people didn’t want me to be sad, but kids, they know when something is weird, and it’s better to bring it out into the open. This was an opportunity for me to research what happened to my own satisfaction.”
Davies had three questions she wanted answered—did Sally kill herself? Was she in pain? And did she see death coming? Through the process of writing the story and embarking on a spiritual journey to connect with her mother’s spirit, she came up with answers for all three of these questions.
“My goal in this book is to make the unseen visible, and articulate the unsaid. It is a quest to make the unknowable known, and a desire to challenge and change some long-held beliefs,” she said.
“One of those beliefs is that when we die, we are gone forever. Somehow, I never really believed it about my mother.”
The research process was challenging because many of the people who knew Sally have since passed. There was no surviving police report about the crash, and minimal information was available in the newspaper archives.
“Many of my friends warned me that I would be treading on thin psychological and spiritual ice by delving into my mother’s romantic, yet
My goal in this book is to make the unseen visible, and articulate the unsaid.
ROXANNE DAVIES
tragic life story,” she said.
“Isn’t literature about heroes and villains, love and loss, sex and morality, adultery and betrayal, I asked. Well, so is Sally’s story, I replied. If I had 15 seconds to describe my book, I would say, ‘Anna Karenina meets the mob at the Dorchester Hotel.’”
Another element of the book is that her family were Ukrainian immigrants, which is why she’s donating the proceeds from her book sales to Ukrainian medical charities.
“What happens to an immigrant family when their dream turns into a nightmare? My book will appeal to those interested in the Canadian immigrant experience, Montreal in the 1950s and family relationships,” she said.
During her presentation at the Squamish Public Library on Sept. 18 at 6 p.m., Davies will be sharing about her book and memoir-writing in general, distributing handouts that will help people spark their memories and start constructing their own narratives.
“They say if you want to live forever, you should 1) have children, 2) plant a tree, and 3) write a book. I’ve done all three. I believe everybody has a story to tell,” she said.
“I want people to come with questions and an open mind.”
Check the library’s website for more on the talk.
DARTS & DAFFODILS
THANK YOU SO MUCH to all the amazing volunteers who worked so hard to make the Brackendale Fall Fair a success this year! It is always great to see an event that brings the community together!
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.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Roxanne Davies.
PHOTO BY BRIAN AIKENS
SUNSET VIEWS: The thick wildfire smoke over Squamish last week made for stunning sunsets.
September 13, 10 am–1 pm
JunctionPark
Join us to exploreavariety of elec tric vehicles,learn about EV ownership, and get your questionsanswered.
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN RECREATION AND CULTURE
Dance, Dance, Dance!
Come tr your fun new danceoptionsavailablethis fall!
• NEW Belly Dance
•Clogging (Beginner and Advanced)
• FREE International TraditionalDance
•LineDance (various levels)
• FREE ReducedMobility Folk Dance
• NEW Salsa& Bachata
•Swing Dance
• NEW TapDance
Ukulele Programs at The55
Join our self-led drop-ins ($2) or tr yone of ourclasses!
Take aprogressive series of lessons forthis easy to learn instrumentthatisso much fun!
Beginner Ukulele 55yrs+ Thursdays,10am–12 pm ar tsSeptember11
Pool Shutdown: September 3–October17
This year ’s shutdown has beenextended in ordertocompletework relatedtothe BrennanParkRecreation Centre renovation projec t.
Weight Training
&Mobility: 55yrs+ Star ts September 18
Unsureofwhere to start with weighttraining? Star there!
Learnthe fundamentalsof building strength, increasing muscle mass andimproving bone densityasyou age.
View this ad online:
We areplanning ahe ad forbudget conversationsinOctoberand November as Council reviews the 2026-2035 Financial Plan. Mark your calendars forcommunity events!
Coffee with Council October 9, 8–10 am, 11 am–1 pm, and 5–7 pm, Various Locations
BudgetBingo October 20, 5–7 pm at The55Activity Centre
Information Night
November 12, 6–8 pm at Howe Sound Inn &Brewing
Community input will be invited online andinpersonwhile Council discussesthe draftbudget.
check out:
Loggers EastStorm SewerPhase1
TheDistric tisupgradingstorm sewer infrastructurein the Loggers East neighbourhood to effec tively manage heavier rainfall expected with climate change and accommodate growth.
An Integrated Stormwater Management Plan,completedbyUrban Systems in 2020, identified aflooding risk in the LoggersEastneighbourhood.Upgrades of thestorm sewersystemwererecommended to mitigate therisk of flooding including the recommendation to construc tnew stormsewer along Finch Dive and Loggers Lane
Phase 1–2025 and early 2026
Storm SewerUpgradesonFinch Drive
IMPAC TS INCLUD E:
•Traffic impac ts including single -lane alternating traffic conditions.
•Construction noise andvibration due to construction ac tivities.
•Shor t-term waterser vicedisruptions.
•Construc tion hourswillbe7 am to 7pm MondaytoSaturday.
Phase 2isplanned to be completedafter theEagleMountainPipeline.
More information on the projec tis availableonthe District ’s websiteat: squamish.ca/loggers- east-storm-sewer-upgrades
Protec tyourhome andhelpkeep your neighbourhood FireSmar t®. If youare aresidentofParadiseValley, youcan take the oppor tunity to for curbsidechipping and removaloftrees and branches forfree! This is our last CommunityChipperDaysevent of 2025.
Paradise Valley September 15–18
What ’s Accepted:
Tree limbs andtrunkssmallerthan 30 cm in diameter
Branches 1cmorlarger in diameter
What is NOTAccepted:
Yard debris: Leaves,grass,weeds, dir t, sticks smaller than 1cmin diameter,rocks
Root balls,construc tion waste, and dir ty or soiled wood squamish.ca/firesmar t
Stage 2Outdoor Water
UseRestric tions remain in effec t. squamish.ca/water
During Stage 2, the hand watering of trees,flowers,and shrubs is allowed any dayfrom6–9 am and 7–10 pm.
Hand watering of vegetable gardens is allowed anyday at anytime.
Lawn watering with asprink lerisallowed oneday per week based on neighbourhood:
•Evennumbered addresses: 6–9 am.
•Odd numberedaddresses: 7–10 pm
Monday Valleycliffe, Hospital Hill and SEAandSKY
TuesdayDowntown
WednesdayDentville,Business Park and Nor th Yards
ThursdayLoggers LaneEast and UniversityHighlands
Friday Garibaldi Highlands
SaturdayGaribaldi Estates
Sunday Brackendale
Infrastruc tureUpgrades
•Installation work on thewatermain nearBill’s Place hasbeenpaused and will resume mid-September.
•Sanitar yliftstation rehabilitation on PiaRoad continues
•Watermain upgrade on BirkenRoadcontinues.
•Xwu’nek wParkSea Dike upgradescontinues.
•Anongoing culver treplacementatthe hairpin turn on Sk yline Drivewill causetraffic impac ts
•Workonthe Victoria Street Ac tiveTransportation Upgrades continues.
•Loggers East StormSewer projec tbegins.
Crosswalk Installations and Safety Upgrades:
•GovernmentRoad beside WatershedGrill
•Buck ley Avenue at Dentville Park
•Queens WayatResolution Way
•Queens Waybetween Commercial Way and Pioneer Way squamish.ca/building- our-future
Business Oppor tunities
Requestsfor Proposals
•Powerhouse Springs Well 8Design&Consultation
•ParadiseValleyDry HydrantEngineering Services squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the -distric t
2025–2029 Financial Plan
TheDistrict ’s current Financial Plan is nowavailable online in acompleteand detailed printable version with newand improved user-friendly features squamish.ca/budget-2025
Victoria Street ActiveTranspor tationUpgrades
Thefocus of this project is movingtothe sec tion of Victoria Street between Cleveland Avenue to Loggers Lane. This work is anticipatedtotake threeweeks.Duringthistime,therewill be periods of single lane alternating trafficalong Victoria Street or Cleveland Avenue as needed squamish.ca/vic toria-street-active-transpor tation-upgrades
CAMPFIRE
Signup
Notice of BylawReadings forZoningAmendment
TuesdaySeptember 16, 2025, at 6p.m. in Council ChambersatMunicipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, BritishColumbia.
Noticeisherebygiven in accordance with Section467 of the Local Government Ac t, thatDistric tofSquamish Council will beconsidering first,second andthird reading of Distric tofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011,AmendmentBylaw (Six Units Near aFrequentBus Route) No. 3170, 2025.
Affec tedLands
Proper ties zonedR-1 and R-4 within 400 metres ofafrequent bus route.
Proposed BylawAmendment
Thepurpose of the proposed bylawistoadd adefinition of frequentbus routeto the Zoning Bylawand to permit up to sixunits on properties zoned R-1and R-4 thatare locatedwithin 400 metresof afrequentbus route, as set out in Section 4, GeneralRegulations. Afrequentbus routeisdefined by specific transit service frequenc ycriteria. At present,nobus routein the Distric tmeet this definition. These regulations will only be applicable once abus routemeetsthe required ser vice frequenc y.
When
TuesdaySeptember16, 2025, at 6p.m
Where
Council Chambers at Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish B.C.
No Public Hearing
In accordance with Provincial housing legislation, Section 464(3) of the Local GovernmentAct,local governments arenow prohibitedfromholding public hearings relatedtorezoningapplications fordevelopments thatare primarily residential andare consistentwith the local government’sO fficialCommunity Plan (OCP). This proposal meets those requirements
HowtoViewthe ProposedBylaw
Acopyofthe proposedbylawand relatedinformation thathas been or maybe considered by Council maybeinspected online or at Municipal Hall.
Online at: LetsTalkSquamish.ca/zoning-updates
MunicipalHall at 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, from September 4, 2025 to September 16, 2025 between 8:30 a.m.and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Enquiries regarding theproposed amendmentbylaw maybemade to the Planning Depar tmentat604.815.5002 or by emailtoplanning@squamish.ca. This is the second of twopublications,dated this11th dayofSeptember 2025 at Squamish, British Columbia.
BIKERS ROLL UP THE SEA TO SKY IN FIRST LOCAL RIDE FOR DAD
With engines roaring from the railyards to Pemberton, local riders joined forces with the Okanagan chapter to support prostate cancer awareness and treatment
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com
Asmall but mighty contingent of bikers came together on Sept. 7 for Ride For Dad, a charity aimed at funding prostate cancer research and raising awareness about the disease.
This was the first time the ride—which rolled out of Squamish from the railyards and roared up the Sea to Sky Highway to Pemberton—took place in this region.
The local ride was organized by Derek Pickford, of Surerus Murphy Joint Venture (SMJV), a company working on the Eagle Mountain-Woodfibre LNG pipeline.
In all, about 15 motorcycle riders came out.
It was a smaller number than Pickford had hoped, but they packed a big punch.
With support from suppliers, contractors and vendors, a total of $106,000 was raised for the Okanagan Ride For Dad Chapter.
The two places in B.C. that offer comprehensive prostate cancer treatment options are Kelowna and Vancouver, Pickford notes.
The Okanagan chapter’s Bob Charron, who is a prostate cancer survivor himself, rode down to
be a part of the Squamish ride and shared why it matters.
In Canada, 76 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every day and, on average, 14 men die of it each day, according to the Canadian Cancer Society.
“I got checked annually, whether I wanted to or not, due to the type of work I was doing. And a
year after I retired, I went in for my usual PSA blood test. And four days later, my GP gave me a call,” recalled Charron. “He says, ‘I need to see you,’ so I knew something was wrong and sure enough, all of a sudden, my numbers jumped.”
Charron lost his brother and his father to the disease, he said.
“That is why it’s important to get checked
He says, ‘I need to see you,’ so I knew something was wrong and sure enough, all of a sudden, my numbers jumped.
BOB CHARRON
regularly, especially if you have cancer in the family.”
“$1.2 million has been raised in BC, and most of that has gone towards first, the [Brachytherapy], and now what they’re looking at is to develop a vaccine. So when you’re 14 or 15 years old—when you just hit puberty— you get this vaccine. What they’re hoping is that it’ll prevent prostate cancer,” Charron said, his voice cracking with emotion.
Charron and Pickford committed to being back for the second annual Ride For Dad next year.
To donate or to find out more, go to the Ride for Dad website.
PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF
(Right) Prostate cancer survivor Bob Charron shakes hands with Derek Pickford, of Surerus Murphy Joint Venture (SMJV) at the Ride For Dad on Sunday.
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@ squamishchief.com follow @thuncher REPORTER
INA PACE inapace@ squamishchief.com
SALES MANAGER
CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com
MULTI- MEDIA SALES REPRESENTATIVE
KIM BOATMAN kboatman@ squamishchief.com
CIRCULATION MANAGER
DENISE CONWAY dconway@ squamishchief.com
PUBLISHER SARAH STROTHER sstrother@lodestarmedia.ca
EDITORIAL
SQUAMISH CONNECTION
Have you registered for the upcoming Squamish Terry Fox Run yet?
Beyond memories of past local Terry Fox runs and the pride most people in B.C. feel for the late Terry Fox, there is a unique Squamish connection readers may not be aware of.
It involves Nelson Winterburn, a retired teacher and long-time community volunteer who taught in Squamish for over three decades.
In 1980, while driving back from a family trip to the Maritimes, Winterburn spotted Terry Fox running through Wawa, a town in Northern Ontario.
Winterburn snapped a picture of Fox running along the side of the road. Winterburn’s daughters and wife Colleen are in the background (see the “Flashback” photo on opposite page). Fox, of course, didn’t make it back to the West Coast on his run because his cancer returned and had spread, stopping his marathon outside of Thunder Bay, Ontario.
After Fox died, Winterburn donated the photo to the Fox family.
“Since that time, Terry’s family has used that photo on display with the donated [van] they received,” Winterburn said, referring to Victoria’s Royal BC Museum display.
In a world that seems so topsy-turvy these days, Fox remains a hero we can all get behind, and his cause of fundraising for cancer research is a worthy one.
We all know someone who has cancer, survived it, or died from it.
THE GEN Z PHONE ADDICTION
AThe Squamish Chief is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact Editor Jennifer Thuncher at jthuncher@squamishchief.com. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
Reproduction of any material contained in this publication is expressly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publisher.
The money directed at cancer research has made things better since Fox had to cut short his run due to the disease 45 years ago.
As noted on the Terry Fox Foundation website, fewer people are dying of cancer than they did back then. Since 1988, cancer mortality rates are down 37% in men and 22% in women.
Childhood leukemia had a survival rate of less than 3% when Fox was a child. Today, the survival rate is over 90%.
“Best of luck with this year’s Terry Fox cancer fundraising,” said Winterburn, in his email sharing the photo with The Squamish Chief.
If you haven’t already signed up, perhaps the added Squamish connection to Fox is the inspiration you need to sign up and fundraise for the Squamish Terry Fox Run on Sunday, Sept. 14.
Register online at run.terryfox.ca.
We will see you there.
s another school year starts, it’s worth pondering that the average youth spends upwards of eight hours per day on their phone. Isn’t that absolutely shocking? The idea that a third of someone’s life is spent staring at a screen must sound appalling to those raised outside of the tech generations. However, many Gen Z will not at all be surprised by this. The worst screen time consumption I personally have seen is a weekly average of 12 hours per day.
However, today’s youth doesn’t see that. We must look.
In a world of over-streamlined communication, the overwhelming concern for youth is the opinions of their peers. This concern resonates throughout the choices of my generation: Zyn (nicotine pouches), delivered food, online dating and the ubiquitous use of phones and social media—it’s all about outside perceptions.
It’s easy to spend eight hours a day on your phone for two clear reasons: it isn’t classified as an addiction by the health-care system, and it’s camouflaged from normal public perception.
Unlike drug or alcohol use, it’s not hard to hide digital addictions.
In the fall of 2024 B.C.’s Ministry of Education
It’s easy to spend eight hours a day on your phone for two clear reasons: it isn’t classified as an addiction by the health-care system, and it’s camouflaged from normal public perception.
instituted a cell phone ban in schools, as Premier David Eby put it, from “bell to bell.” Arguably, it was necessary, as how else would you confront this unwieldy problem that was overtaking attention and learning in the classroom?
But the biggest driver of change when confronting an addiction is acknowledgment. And while adults and most kids will admit they spend too much time on their phones, phone addiction gets overlooked because everyone has a phone, and phones have many essential and useful purposes.
(We have good feelings that we live, we work and we play on the lands of the Squamish Nation)
YOUTH: Continued from 12
Often, I find that many of my peers truly dislike their phones. But they aren’t optional, and as we move forward into a world of greater digitization, the more we realize how difficult it is to avoid our devices. In many ways, natural solutions are being found—when I play cards with friends, phones are always put aside. However, ultimately, the decision comes from an individual. Can you only use your phone when you’re using your phone, or will it occupy your entire life?
Thomas Legg is a former youth intern researching youth addictive behaviours in a gap year project.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
THE HIDDEN COST RECREATION NEGLECT
Local governments have long played a vital role in fostering community well-being through accessible recreation. These programs aren’t just about fun—they’re about public health, social connection, and equity. For families who can’t afford private clubs or expensive extracurriculars, municipal recreation centres have been lifelines.
A quick glance at the recently posted fall program guide for Brennan Park, the aging and only recreation centre in Squamish, however, shows that the District of Squamish is not prioritizing access to indoor recreation, with limited program offerings to choose from. For children between the ages of five to 12, the District offers one team sport (floor hockey— offered once per week for limited age groups), swimming lessons and gymnastics. No arts, no dance, no other sports. When you compare these offerings to other similarly sized municipalities in B.C., such as Courtenay (population 28,000) or Campbell River (population 35,000), that are offering a significantly greater number of programs (e.g., basketball, archery, acro, cooking, dancing, baking, pottery, fencing, ballet, the list goes on and on), it is particularly apparent that our local government is under serving our community.
For adult programming, it is a similar
LETTERS POLICY
scenario. Without a dedicated fitness centre/weight room there is no low-cost option for strength training in town. The fitness offerings this fall for adults working regular office hours, Monday to Friday, 9 to 5 p.m., are: Zumba, Yoga or Body Blast each offered only once per week, and these are registered programs that require advance commitment.
Other municipalities, such as Whistler, with half the population of Squamish, are offering multiple drop-in fitness classes per day available before and after-work, in addition to weekends, at a cost to residents of about $10 per class. Why does this matter? 72% of Canadian youth and 51% of Canadian adults are not active enough to meet recommended physical activity guidelines. Recreation programs are linked to reduced obesity, improved mental health, lower crime rates, better social connection and increased academic performance for youth.
When many families in Squamish are struggling with high living and housing costs, they are less likely to be able to afford private extracurriculars or gyms (an average cost for a drop-in fitness class at a private centre in Squamish ranges from $25 to 30 per class) meaning they are unable to stay active (particularly during the colder/rainier months), make connections within their community and have access to highquality amenities.
When asked about why rec programming was so limited, programming staff indicated it was a result of Brennan Park not having enough space to offer more programs. Without any tangible commitment and plans from the District to invest in our local indoor recreation offerings to support one of the fastest growing communities in B.C., beyond the current structural upgrades being undertaken to improve Brennan Park’s energy efficiency and indoor air quality, it is unlikely that residents will see any improvement soon to programming being offered.
Although larger in population, nearby communities like the City and District of North Vancouver have been heavily investing in smaller community centres (e.g., the newly built Lynn Valley and Lynn Creek centres) that offer multi-purpose rooms and fitness centres and are continuing to make large capital investments to their existing arena and pool infrastructure (e.g., Harry Jerome and Delbrook recreation centres).
Opportunities for participation in arts and sport shouldn’t be a privilege for those who can afford it. It’s time for the council to step up and outline how they will be investing in public recreation in the short and long term to increase access to high-quality, public recreation and arts for Squamish residents.
Jessica Nelson Squamish
The Squamish Chief welcomes letters to the editor of up to 400 words. Letters should be exclusive to this publication and are meant to respond to a local story in The Squamish Chief or raise an issue happening in town. Please include your name, neighbourhood and daytime phone number. The deadline is 5 p.m. Monday to be considered for Thursday’s edition. Full names and neighbourhood will be published with the letter. The publisher reserves the right to refuse and edit letters for length and clarity or to address legal concerns. Email letters to: editor@squamishchief.com.
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
How much does the situation with the current pool and arena impact you?
Have your say at squamishchief.com
support the closure of Joffre Lakes? (Top 3 answers)
MOST READ STORY
See: Bikers roll up the Sea to Sky in first Squamish Ride For Dad
PHOTO BY BRIAN AIKENS BABY BEAR: The bears and their cubs are still out and about in Squamish!
PHOTO BY NELSON WINTERBURN FLASHBACK: Terry Fox during his Marathon of Hope run in 1980.
Canadian job
jobs st ar there
Real jobs.Real energy.Real opportunity.
At WoodfibreLNG, we’rebuilding more than a world-class facility—we’re creating real opportunities forCanadians. With astrong commitmenttolocal hiring, Indigenous partnerships, and best-in-class workforceaccommodation, we’resupporting good-paying jobs thatcontributetofamilies, communities, and Canada’s economy. woodfibrelng.ca
Public Notice
Do
youown proper ty in DowntownSquamish assessedas Class 6under theAssessmentAct?
Distric tofSquamish Business Improvement Area
BylawNo. 2799, 2021, will expire on March31, 2026. Anew bylawisrequiredtorenewthe business improvementarea. Acopyof the proposed Distric t of Squamish Downtown BusinessImprovementArea BylawNo. 3182, 2025, canbeviewedatMunicipal Hall or onlineat squamish.ca/public-notices
Description of the ser vice:
ABusiness ImprovementArea(BIA)isanarea designatedbyCouncil in whichbusinesses and proper ty ownerscan finance effec tivemarketing, promotionaland revitalizationprograms fora specified area of the municipality. TheDowntown Squamish Business Improvement Association(the Association) delivers the BIAser vicein Downtown Squamish.
Which proper ties areincluded?
Class6proper tiesinDowntownSquamishthatare locatedwithin theboundariesshown in bold on the location map
What is the cost of theser vice andwhen does it come into effec t?
Thenew proposed bylawwill be ineffect until March31, 2031, andauthorizes the Distric t, during the calendar years2026through 2030, to granttothe Association funds not exceeding $634,744 intotal Allcosts ofthe proposed ser vicewill be recovered through an annual tax levyonthe land and improvements of Class 6proper ties within the BIA. Theannual amountcollec tedbythe tax levy is shown in the table below ;this amount is sharedbyall Class 6propertieswithin theBIA boundar y.
What is theprocess?
IF YO UA RE IN FAVO UR No ac tion required.
IF YO UA RE OPPOS ED
Complete and submit a“Petition Against Form”.
If youchoosetosignthe petition againstform, youare declaring that youare theregistered propertyownerorholder or occupierofland who is responsible forpaying thelocal area servicetax
Only one petition maybefiled per property within theBIA boundar y.
Unless amajority of the owners representingat least 50% of the assessedvalue of the parcels which aresubjec ttothe taxlevy, petition Council NOT to proceed,BylawNo. 3187, 2025 maybe adopted withoutfur ther notice, andthe Business ImprovementAreaser vicefor theDowntown Squamishmay proceed.
Class 6proper ty owners desiring to petition against proposedBylawNo. 3187, 2025 must do so in writing using the petition form established by theDistric tof Squamish. Petition formsare available at Distric tof SquamishMunicipal Hallordigitally by contac ting corporateofficer@squamish.ca. Petition formsmust be returned properly signedtoMunicipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,POBox 310, Squamish, BC on or before4:30p.m.onMonday,October 20,2025.
Questions about Bylaw 3187, 2025 or the petition against process: Contac tSarah Morris,Manager of Legislative Services by phone 604-892-5217 or by email corporateofficer@squamish.ca
This is the first publication of two, datedthis11th day of September,2025 at Squamish, B.C.
LO CATION MA P
to
PHOTOS BY OISIN MCHUGH PHOTOGRAPHY
Folks turned out in droves for the 2025 Brackendale Fall Fair, at Brackendale Farmers’ Institute Park on Saturday, Sept. 6.
PHOTOS BY OISIN MCHUGH PHOTOGRAPHY
Thousands of cyclists took
the Sea to Sky Highway for the 16th annual RBC GranFondo Whistler, Saturday morning.
Notice of TaxS ale
Noticeisherebygiven that pursuanttoSec tions645 &647 of the LocalGovernmentact,the proper ties listed below maybeofferedfor sale on Monday, September 29,2025 at 10:00 am,inCouncil Chambers, MunicipalHall, 37955 Second Ave, Squamish, B.C.,unless the delinquenttaxes plusinterest arepaid.
Lot10, Block 30, Plan VAP14705, Part S1/2 of SE1/4, Section22, Township 50, Group 1, NewWestminster Land District, ManufacturedHome Reg. #60458
MH Reg#49287 20-40157 GovernmentRoad Group 1, New Westminster Land District, Manufactured HomeReg.#49287, Bay#20, 08338 Spiral Manufactured Home Park, MHP Roll #08-338-300-0070348.000
MH Reg#4441 13-40022 GovernmentRoad Group 1, New Westminster Land District, Manufactured HomeReg.# 4441, Bay#13, 08338 Wagon Wheel Ak aAngelo's ManufacturedHome Park,MHP Roll #08-338-400-0067701.000
Please notethatunder Section 648ofthe Local GovernmentAct aperson authorized by council may bid forthe municipalityupto a maximumamount set by council.
Anyperson upon being declaredthe taxsale purchaser mustpay the fullamountofthe purchase pricebycash or certified chequeby3 pm the same day. Failuretopay will result in propertybeing offered forsaleagain at 10 am on the following day.
Propertypurchased at thetax sale is subject to redemption by the registered propertyowner within one year from the date of the annual tax sale. TheDistric tofSquamish makes no representation express or impliedastothe condition or qualityof the proper ties being offered forsale.
Thepurchaseofatax sale propertyissubjec ttotax underthe PropertyTransfer TaxAct on the fair market valueofthe property.
This is the first of three suchpublications of this noticedated September 11, 2025.
TheDistrictofSquamish acknowledges that payments for delinquent taxes may havebeen received during the period which the listings areprepared andtheir subsequent publication in the newspaper.
JACKSON GOLDSTONE ROCKETS TO FIRST DOWNHILL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE
Gracey Hemstreet fourth in ladies’ race as Valentina Höll clinches fourth straight win
DAVID SONG dsong@wplpmedia.com
Jackson Goldstone is officially golden on his sport’s biggest stage.
The Squamish downhill ace ascended to UCI World Championships victory during his very first elite appearance at the Sept. 7 event, blasting to the finish line in Champéry, Switzerland (2:54.153).
German silver medallist Henri Kiefer (2:56.099) and bronze medallist Ronan Dunne of Ireland (2:56.146) were both almost two seconds slower than the triumphant Canuck, who also prevailed in qualification.
“That was probably some of my best work on a mountain bike. I struggled the first two days, then as soon as the [qualifying] run came I felt like it was on and I left everything out on track there,” said Goldstone in a press release. “Coming across that grass section, I felt like I was on a wild horse and just trying to hold on.”
The 21-year-old also dedicated his breakthrough to Stevie Smith, who passed away nearly a decade ago in an enduro motorcycle accident. Whistler’s 1199 downhill course is named in Smith’s honour.
It was business as usual on the ladies’ side of the bracket with Valentina Höll donning the rainbow jersey for a fourth straight year (3:27.506). Myriam Nicole filled the runner-up spot (3:27.803) and her French compatriot Marine Cabirou was third (3:28.227), with Sunshine Coaster Gracey Hemstreet in fourth (3:29.725).
Heading into Sunday’s race, Höll had not topped a podium since last year’s World Championships in Pal Arinsal, Andorra.
“World Championships are always something special and it brings out the best in you,” Höll told reporters after ending her winless streak at 372 days. “Definitely this year hasn’t been easy, I just couldn’t find my fire. Honestly, I didn’t expect it for this race, I didn’t feel the season was mine. I just tried to give my best, not think about any outcome.
“Today I just relied on my confidence and the reason why I started riding—to have fun—and this is something that I wanted to get back.”
‘JOB DONE’
Riders enjoyed ideal conditions in Champéry, and Kiefer took advantage as the first man to break the three-minute barrier. Three ex-World Champions, Aaron Gwin, Charlie Hatton and Danny Hart, failed to follow suit. Dunne came close, and Andreas Kolb crashed amidst a promising run.
Reigning World Champ Loris Vergier found himself unable to match Goldstone’s blistering velocity (the Squamolian led everywhere apart from split No. 2) and ended up fifth. That left only Loïc Bruni in the starting gate, but the five-time Champion met the same fate as Kolb by going down.
Goldstone celebrated on Instagram with a rainbow emoji and two words: “Job done.” The Squamolian couldn’t partake in the 2023 and 2024 Worlds contests but has now made his presence felt in compelling fashion.
Fellow Sea to Sky athletes Dane Jewett and Ryan Griffith, plus Red Bull Joyride winner Emil Johansson, were among the many who took to social media to congratulate Goldstone on his watershed achievement.
Shortly before her male peers dropped in, Nicole put her forgettable qualifying round in the rearview to establish a lead over the women’s field. Neither OG Canadian Open DH queen Mille Johnset nor three-time European Champ Monika Hrastnik nor Cabirou could do better, while a punishing bottom half of the course knocked Tahnee Seagrave into seventh: a downgrade from her third-place Worlds result in 2024.
Hemstreet was quick, but not quick enough to challenge for medals. Höll would not be denied: taking an early lead over Nicole and hanging on at the finish with 0.667 seconds to spare.
Visit valais2025.ch/results for more UCI World Championships results.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UCI
Jackson Goldstone celebrates his third World Cup downhill win on June 1 in Loudenvielle, France.
JACKSON GOLDSTONE
‘FELT LIKE MY REAR WHEEL WAS CATCHING ME AT ONE POINT’
Local Elly Hoskin strikes World Championship gold in Valais
DAVID SONG dsong@wplpmedia.com
This year has been a coming-out party for Elly Hoskin, who spent the last few months entrenching herself amidst the ranks of elite enduro riders. On May 16, she became the first woman outside of France and Great Britain to win an Enduro World Cup (EDR).
For the Squamish native, Monday, Sept. 1’s UCI Mountain Bike World Championship was icing on an already-sweet cake. Hoskin kept World Cup overall queen Ella Conolly and French veteran Mélanie Pugin at bay to lock down her first championship title in 35 minutes and 13.67 seconds. Conolly battled to silver (35:18.20) and Pugin nipped at her heels for bronze (35:20.51).
“Good day for a Monday,” Hoskin quipped in an online interview with Cycles Devinci. “Started strong on the first two [stages]. I knew I had to capitalize on those because Stage 3 was not up my alley. We just laid it all out there on the last one and it was pretty hectic. It felt like my rear wheel was catching me at one point.
“I’m just taking it in and really enjoying all these kids coming up to me. It’s just really special and I can’t wait to see what this unlocks for me.”
Few were shocked to witness Richie Rude don his own rainbow stripes after the men’s contest (29:37.67). Even Slawomir Lukasik, the 2025 overall titleholder, was forced to settle for runner-up position (29:40.17). Elliot Jamieson made Canada proud by finishing third (29:58.15) ahead of last year’s World Champion Alex Rudeau (30:05.22).
Having notched his inaugural Canadian Open Enduro victory in August, Jamieson was over the moon about this latest breakthrough.
“Speechless right now, and words can’t explain how grateful and stoked I am to have achieved this with the most amazing people around me,” he wrote on social media after the race. “This is the best sport ever. Thank you and much love to everyone.”
ALL-OUT ATTACK
Hoskin prevailed on her first two stages, but gave up more than a 30-second buffer as opponents clawed back time. Conolly and fellow Brit Harriet Harnden each won a section, while Pugin’s day-long consistency kept her within range of the leaders.
Fans looked on to see if the 35-year-old Frenchwoman could overtake 26-year-old Conolly, or if 21-year-old Hoskin might rebound when it mattered most. Youth
ultimately prevailed over experience: Hoskin surged to win the final stage as Harnden faded into fourth.
“I attacked as hard as I could on the last two [stages] and came away with it,” explained Hoskin in a press release. “When I knew I was sitting in second, I knew it was more about holding that position than making up time… and it worked out.”
Rude, meanwhile, found himself within 10 seconds of Lukasik and Rudeau with four stages completed. The American legend poured it on to wipe out Lukasik’s edge and vault himself to a triumphant outcome.
“I only raced two other enduros this year after riding downhill,” said Rude, who was golden in both the Garbanzo DH and Air DH last month at Crankworx Whistler. “To be on the top step is unreal right now. On Stage 5, I gave it my all, saw how close the gap was [0.2 seconds] and had to give it everything on
Stage 6.”
Decorated Whistlerite Jesse Melamed re-aggravated an injury and crashed hard in practice, but achieved sixth place nonetheless.
“Worlds really is special. There is something about the all-or-nothing, one-day championship event that brings out an extra gear. I showed up ready to race and lay it all on the line and I did that, but I couldn’t stay mistake-free. A stage win among some real bad ones. Sometimes it goes and sometimes it doesn’t, and we’re all racing for those good days,” Melamed posted on Instagram.
“I didn’t have it today, but so many people did that deserved it: [Richie] the GOAT doing what he does best, [Elly] taking the freaking World Champion title … and [Elliot] taking bronze in elite men’s. So proud of the Canadian squad representing enduro out here. I had so much fun racing today, and I
Speechless
right
now, and words can’t
explain how
grateful and stoked I am to have
achieved
this with the most amazing people around me
ELLIOT JAMIESON
can’t wait for another shot at it next year.” For more World Championships results from Valais, Switzerland, go to valais2025.ch/ results.
PHOTO BY PHOTO BY BORIS BEYER Elite women’s podium from the Enduro World Cup race on May 16, 2025. (Left to right) Ella Conolly, Elly Hoskin and Morgane Charre.
LOCAL TEEN LACEY DENNIS RACES TO NATIONAL MOUNTAIN BIKING SUCCESS
From her hometown trails to international racecourses, teen rider Lacey Dennis has proven she can handle pressure—and win big
WILL JOHNSON
For The Squamish Chief
It’s about finding the speed when nobody else can.
For Squamish mountain biker Lacey Dennis, a sharp curve in the track or an unexpected decline poses an opportunity for velocity—which she’s been taking advantage of during races all over the continent. The 16-year-old, who has just entered her first year in the junior (U19) category, has been making a name for herself in both cross-country Olympic and cross-country short-track races.
“I’ve started to get more used to the pressure now that I’ve done it for quite a few years,” Dennis told The Squamish Chief, after returning from the Canada Summer Games in St. John’s, where she represented Team B.C. Dennis is coming off an incredibly successful season, which included being named the B.C. provincial champion for the third year in a row. She travelled to the U.S. Pro Cup and Canada Cup races, becoming a regular fixture on the podium.
At the Canada Summer Games, she won two bronze medals with Team B.C.
To prepare for these competitions, Dennis trained six times a week in the Highlands of Squamish, using the Diamond Head and Mashiter trails.
“Two of those days are work days where I’m doing intervals and pushing at race pace, getting my heart rate up, and the rest of those are endurance days,” she said.
“Those trails I started out riding on are what made me love riding my bike.”
RESULTS
(XCC = short track, XCO = Olympic)
Temecula, California Pro Cup:
XCC = 14th
XCC = 10th
Arkansas Pro cup:
XCO #1 = 14th
XCC = 10th
XCO #2 = 13th
School provincials (Powell River):
Enduro = 9th
XCO = 1st
BC provincials:
XCO = 1st
I’ve started to get more used to the pressure now that I’ve done it for quite a few years.
LACEY DENNIS
Canmore (Canada Cup):
XCO #1 = 7th
XCC = 5th
XCO #2 = 13th
Utah (Soho) US Pro Cup:
XCO #1 = 2nd
XCC = 2nd
XCO #2 = 3rd
Whistler (Canada Cup):
XCC = 7th
XCO = 9th
Nationals in Victoria:
XCO = 9th
XCC = 7th
Canada Summer Games (TEAM BC):
XCO = 3rd
Relay = 3rd
XCC = 5th
Serving sea to sky for 18 years
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMY DENNIS
Lacey Dennis, who has just entered her first year in the junior (U19) category, has been making a name for herself in both cross-country Olympic and cross-country short-track races.
PHOTO BY RORY LEE
WILDFIRE FOG: The wildfire smoke blocked our usual views when it was at its thickest earlier this week. At one point, the air was rated 10+ on the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI).
SEASIDE SPECTACLE AT THE SPIT SEASON SENDOFF
‘The honey hole’ lived up to its name as amateur kiteboarders took flight on Pepahím
event that saw gravity-defying tricks and fierce competition
WILL JOHNSON
For The Squamish Chief
They call it the honey hole.
During the Squamish Spit Season Sendoff Big Air Throw Down on Pepahím island on Saturday, there was a six-metre (20-foot) tree in the event zone that was just begging to be jumped over—so that’s exactly what winner Loren Parfitt did while performing his tricks.
“Kiteboarding is pretty cool because you fly in the air up to 10-12 metres high, and you’re in the air between five to eight seconds. One of the things I did was jump over the tree in the event zone. I like to strike a pose and get everyone stoked,” said Parfitt, a Squamish local.
“Overall, it was a fantastic event.”
The amateur Squamish Windsports Society event was organized by local kiteboarder Sam Medysky, a multiple-time Canadian freestyle champion.
Judging duties were handled by fellow champion Jack Rieder, former society president Geoffrey Waterson, and David Drinkwater.
Breaking News
island for a high-energy sendoff
When all was said and done, Parfitt took home first place in the men’s division, and Yulin Wang, of Langley, won the women’s. There were 20 male competitors and six females, with plenty of spectators gathered on the beach to take in the big day.
The events were judged 50% on height, 25% on technicality and 25% on style. Parfitt’s winning tricks included a “board off,” in which the feet are removed from the board in midair, a “front roll board off,” which includes a flip, and a “kiteloop,” which involves the kite making a full rotation.
Wang, meanwhile, completed a “kiteloop late back roll,” a “boogie loop” and a “kite loop board off.”
“I was very happy. The conditions were a bit up and down, but otherwise I think I did okay,” said Wang.
“It was so great they pulled it off with the hard access, it was super impressive that it went so smoothly.”
Kiteboarding is pretty cool because you fly in the air up to 10-12 metres high, and you’re in the air between five to eight seconds.
LOREN PARFITT
The men’s podium included Philipp Schlonger, of Seattle, in second place and Jan Zgiet, of Langley, in third. In the women’s division, Jackie Crowe came second, and third was Kirsty Lowe. The youngest rider of the day was Drew Palmer from Vancouver.
PHOTOS BY SANDY HEIDEBRECHT
Loren Parfitt took home first place in the men’s division, and Yulin Wang won the women’s.
SQUAMISH CLUB HOSTS PNGA SENIOR AND SUPER SENIOR WOMEN’S GOLF TOURNAMENT
The Squamish Valley Golf Course welcomed elite female amateurs from across North America for its first-ever hosting of the prestigious Pacific Northwest Golf Association (PNGA) Senior & Super Senior Women’s Amateur Championship
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com
The wildfire smoke hovering above the Squamish Valley Golf Course early this week didn’t seem to dampen the spirits of participants at the Pacific Northwest Golf Association (PNGA) Senior & Super Senior Women’s Amateur Championship.
The championship ran from Sept. 2 to 4, and it was a first for the local course.
The Squamish Chief stopped by on the morning of the last day of play.
The championship includes three rounds of stroke play competition for the female amateur golfers in two divisions—senior and super senior. Senior players must have turned 50 by Sept. 2 of this year. Super seniors must have reached 65 by that date.
The participants from the U.S. who The Squamish Chief spoke to at the tournament appreciated the local course and the Canadian hospitality.
“The weather here is awesome and the golf course is great,” said Rosie Cook of Bend, Ore., who won the PNGA Senior Women’s Amateur championship in 2024 and was back to defend her title. She ultimately came third this week, but enjoyed the event nonetheless.
“It is good to be in Canada... to get to know everybody. To get to know the people in the country. You know, they are awesome. So, it’s a good experience for me,” she said.
Leslie Folsom, of Tukwila, Wash., got a hole-in-one, acing the 16th hole during round one of the senior ladies amateur championship. It was her eighth career hole-in-one.
Though she didn’t end up scoring as well as she wanted in the championship, she had nothing but good things to say about her time here.
“Oh my gosh, even with the fires, even with the smoke, it’s so wonderful. And of course, you, as Canadians, are so lovely and so welcoming to us. We appreciate that— particularly in political times right now,” she said.
She added that the local club deserves praise, including general manager, Scott Wengi and his team.
“They’ve been amazing hosts. This golf course is in great shape, and we appreciate the hospitality.”
FINAL SCORES
Shelly Stouffer, of Nanoose Bay, won for
It is good to be in Canada... to get to know everybody. To get to know the people in the country. You know, they are awesome. So, it’s a good experience for me.
ROSIE COOK
the senior women, with one under par. She is no stranger to victory, having also won the PNGA Senior Women’s Championship in 2022 and 2023. She is a PNGA hall-of-famer, and she won the previous six BC Women’s Senior Amateur titles.
Penny Gibbons, of Vancouver, Wash., won the super senior title, with 28 over par for her three rounds.
Gibbons also won the 2024 PNGA Super Senior Women’s title. See the full championship results on the PNGA website.
Meet Kobe!
Meet Kobe with the feather duster tail and a big personality. Kobe loves to be with people whether it is playing with a wand toy or just hanging out together. Kobe is not fond of children so no kids under teenage years for this boy. Kobe has some not so nice memories of being treated badly by a young child, and so he can be unpredictable around younger children if he gets scared Kobe also prefers to be the only cat in the home, but believe us, his silly antics and outgoing personality will keep you on your toes, and bring smiles to your face.
PHOTOS BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF (Left) Rosie Cook, (right) Leslie Folsom at the Squamish Valley Golf Club on Sept. 4.
CAREERS
SCADATechnician –Regular Full-Time
Youwill be responsible forSCADA systemsused across our infrastruc tureser vices.This is ahandson role thatplays acritical par tinensuringthe reliabilityand efficienc yofessential public utilities
Twoyears experience in electrical automation and SCADAsystems maintenanceisrequired
&Wellness Plan
HEAVYEQUIPMENT OPERATOR – Minimum5 years or 5,000 hoursoperating experience on excavator.Full-time,Monday –Friday. $33-$46 perhour.
CRUSHING &EARTHWORKS MANAGER– Must haveexperiencewith mobile crushing plant and heavy civil construction. $33-$46per hour
CONSTRUCTIONLABOURER – Great opportunity to lear non-the-job. Stamina for physically demanding work and perseverance to braveinclement weatherrequired. Previous experience preferred but not required. Training provided. $28-$33per hour
PIPELAYER –Minimum 5years experience in civil construction Full-time, Monday –Friday.$33-$43 per hour
TRUCK DRIVER –BCDL Class 1or Class3 withair brakesrequired. Manual transmission. 2 years experience preferred. $35-$41.50 perhour.
WELDER –Red Seal or equivalent. $40.19-$49.15per hour.
PROJECT COORDINATOR –Minimum2 years experience preferred. $29-$40 per hour
Squash
Adjusts in length
On the cutting
Poor
Grasp clearly
Resolve a debt
Heidi’s mountain
End
Weld
Brother’s sib
Observe secretly
Shipboard buddies
Obstacle
Pasture mom
Informer
Clan
Back of the foot
In error: 2 wds.
Glide
Bath basin
Crown of light
Yoke of
Ties the knot
Moral precept
Not at work
Mispronounce
Recognized
Additionally
Seethe
Collections
Guardian
Eerie
“____ on Melancholy”
Open a jacket, maybe
Laughing
Divisions of time
Cold-cut shop
44. Openings
46. Bongo, e.g. 48. a boy!
50 Cherry center 51 Finished lunch 52. Okey-doke
Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling
ARIES March 21-April 19
This week, you’ll be in high demand with your clients and loved ones Your efficiency will put you in the spotlight. If you’re single, love may surprise you when you least expect it
TAURUS April 20-May 20
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself falling in love this week—with a vehicle! If you’re patient, the salesperson could sweeten the deal with an even better offer. At work, your team will support you when your workload feels overwhelming.
GEMINI May 21-June 20
Take a fresh look at your budget. You might find you can afford a little more luxury, like an unforgettable romantic getaway. Change will be highly beneficial at work, especially if you overcome your fear of the unknown
CANCER June 21-July 22
It’s time for change, whether in your relationship, household or work life Let your emotions settle, and resist the urge to make hasty decisions Some decisions take time to think through; impulsiveness won’t serve you well.
DOKU
LEO July 23-Aug. 22
Your loved ones will encourage you to do more to treat yourself You may decide to indulge in self-pampering, perhaps with a new look or by following the advice of an expert. Calm your anxiety to regain your energy.
VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept 22
Get ready to steal the spotlight this week as you attract attention in unexpected ways You’ll lead a group that will acknowledge your hard work. A well-deserved promotion awaits you You’ll be recognized for your achievements.
LIBRA Sept 23-Oct. 22
If a joyful event, like a birth, is on the horizon for your family, you may also experience a home relocation in the near future. Be sensitive to those around you who may feel vulnerable during this time; your support will mean a lot to them.
SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21
Prepare for lively discussions, especially at work, where you’ll be at the heart of the conversation. This is your chance to expand your professional and personal networks. You’ll forge new friendships, leading to enjoyable, enriching experiences
SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21
You’ll manage to get out of a tricky financial situation this week You must carefully choose your words to persuade those around you. In your love life, clear and open communication will help strengthen your relationship
CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19
You’ll have to make a decision without having all the facts Trust your instincts and judgment to make the right choice. Avoid long-term financial commitments this week, as they could add unnecessary stress.
AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb. 18
A tempting work proposal will come your way. Take the time to discuss it with your loved ones before deciding, even if it’s your dream job. In your relationship, affection will come naturally as soon as you’re in the right mindset to receive it.
PISCES Feb. 19-March 20
You’ll spend a lot of time on social media this week If you want to reignite passion in your relationship, consider doing more to include your partner in your activities At work, your expertise will be invaluable to your team
Discover avibrant arrayofexhibitorsshowcasingproducts andser vices tailoredfor seniors. During ourbreakoutsessions,professionals will offerinteresting andtimelyinformation. Come down andsavourlight refreshments while connectingwithyour community.
Don’tmissthisoppor tunity to explore, learn, andhavefun! Mark your calendarand bringa friend!
