September 18, 2025

HIKE SEA TO SKY TRAIL

One woman’s path to an imperfectly-perfect hike from Squamish to Pemberton

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2025

ICE RINK CLOSURE TRIGGERS PARENT PROTEST

The District has vowed to reopen Brennan Park as soon as possible, while the construction of second and third rinks is being asked for to address capacity issues

WILL JOHNSON

For The Squamish Chief

They took it to the streets.

A parent-led street hockey game protest took place outside municipal hall Sept 9 to draw attention to what parents argue is a lack of appropriate ice space in Squamish

At 3:45 p.m., Second Avenue was blocked off as a couple of dozen youth and parents played hockey

It was a peaceful protest, with music playing, and the players allowed a BC Transit bus to drive through the games. They also made room for drivers stuck near muni hall due to the protest to leave.

Check inside these pages for our annual Contractors Directory PAGE 17

HELP AROUND THE HOUSE

Nevertheless, buses were temporarily rerouted between Victoria and Main streets due to the demonstration

With Brennan Park being the only available ice rink for a community of about 30,000 people—and it’s been closed since the

ARBOURWOODS

beginning of the month due to unsafe conditions—tensions have started to boil over

EMERGENCY COUNCIL MEETING

Just hours after the protest on Sept. 9, the District council discussed Brennan Park at a

special business meeting. Municipal staff delivered a report, inviting the community to attend in person or listen live via squamish.ca/meetings.

RINK: Continued on 2

RINK: Continued from 1

The topic was the current closure, not the larger issue of a lack of ice in town generally. The meeting was also focused on current fixes, not a detailed review of what went wrong.

The District plans to conduct a root cause analysis to understand the factors that led to the current situation and how it can be prevented in the future

Though parents and some youth attended the 6 p.m. discussion, the public was not able to speak as it was an update from District staff, not a public hearing, Mayor Armand Hurford explained at the outset.

The arena closed on Sept. 2, with the District saying that the ongoing Phase 1, $21-million construction work at the rec centre, specifically the removal of a wall that separated the ice rink from outside heat and humidity, resulted in higher than anticipated levels of heat and humidity within the aging facility, causing unsafe surface conditions on the ice.

The issue was known in early August, but staff thought they could manage it On Labour Day weekend, the combination of weather and other factors tipped the scales, and the arena had to be closed, according to staff.

Staff said that they couldn’t make promises about when the rink would open, as further delays were possible

Staff told council fixes for the rink included, among other things, bringing the facility’s new HVAC system online, and renting two large, industrial dehumidifiers as well as a large diesel generator to power the dehumidifiers. Some components are coming from outside B.C., staff said.

Staff said that getting these installed has been a top priority.

On the municipality’s website, the District refutes a rumour going around town saying that a company has offered to pay for an arena.

“No such offers have been received,” the District site states.

The site also notes that in 2005, a referendum to borrow $20 million for a new ice rink and

other recreational facilities failed with 73.6% of voters in opposition

FIVE-YEAR PLAN

In terms of when a new sheet of ice may be built in town, the site says budget discussions for the upcoming five-year plan begin in October.

“This will be an opportunity for council and staff to discuss all District needs and wants, and the trade-offs associated with each.”

The site also addresses why the rec centre is being renovated rather than rebuilt:

• Upgrades/expansions can be paced and staged as funding is available.

• The existing recreation centre can continue to function while upgrades and expansion take place.

• Greenhouse gas emissions from demolishing a building and rebuilding are significantly higher than upgrading/expanding.

At the council meeting on Sept. 9, staff said the temporary measures to reopen the arena will cost about $160,000 This covers eight weeks of the rental of the industrial dehumidifiers and associated equipment. After that, when the arena wall is complete and the situation is mitigated, access should be restored.

Staff said that the amount should be covered by the project’s contingency fund

COUNCIL COMMENTS

After having their questions answered, council members expressed their gratitude and understanding toward specifically the hockey parents who protested and turned out for the meeting, and to the wider community, who have been left scrambling due to the ice closure.

Coun. Andrew Hamilton said he understood well where the frustration was coming from.

“I’m also a swim parent, and have gone through almost the exact challenge that you’re facing right now,” he said, referencing when the pool was closed for an extended period over the winter due to an issue with the tiles.

“You want to know when the solution is there so you can make a plan to move forward. I apologize that I cannot provide that and I hope

you understand I hope you can see why,” he added.

“But even bigger than that, I want to apologize for whatever decisions I have made or not made in my role as councillor that have led us to this point. Because ultimately, the responsibility for maintaining our facilities and community function comes to this table and the decisions that we make here, so I apologize for whatever decisions I’ve made that have led us here.”

Coun Jenna Stoner echoed appreciation for the members of the user groups who use the ice and said she understands many are “going above and beyond” to ensure programming that has been cancelled in Squamish can carry on elsewhere.

“I am very much aware that any delay is a huge challenge, and I see the commitment from all the folks around the table to try and get a solution up and running as quickly as possible,” she said.

She added that she stands by the past decision to renovate the rec centre as opposed to building a whole new one.

“We also knew that going in for a renovation of an older building and trying to run programming at the same time that there were going to be hiccups along the way, and this is the first major hiccup, and we’re a year and a half into this [renovation] project, and so no time is a good time for a hiccup in a renovation project.

And I can’t say that we totally thought it was going to be 100% smooth sailing. We can cross our fingers and toes, and we all know that renovation projects are hard I will happily talk to anybody about the decisions that have been made in the past in order to prioritize renovation above a brand new facility,” she said.

“If I reflect back on that past decision that I was part of, that was still the right decision to make, and if we look forward and into the future, I’m more than happy to have additional conversations on how we can get creative and get funding to the table in order to build a second ice rink, a second pool, and the additional facilities that we know our community deserves.”

I am very much aware that any delay is a huge challenge, and I see the commitment from all the folks around the table to try and get a solution up and running as quickly as possible.

COUN. JENNA STONER

HAS SQUAMISH OUTGROWN ITS SINGLE RINK?

If they can’t play here, then they have to go somewhere else For the hockey families intent on seeing their children on the ice, it’s become a matter of driving distance

“Seventeen teams—roughly 250 families—had to travel as far as Langley, upwards of two hours each way, this weekend for ice time in order to complete tryouts and practices needed to start the season,” parent Sarah Norman told The Squamish Chief.

“The current renovations at Brennan Park, however, do nothing to expand access or capacity to the rink Families are left stranded, while the fundamental problem remains: Squamish has outgrown its single ice surface.” Norman noted that though Squamish is one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada, she feels its infrastructure isn’t keeping pace. She pointed out that communities such as Salmon Arm, Cranbrook, Port Alberni, Duncan and Parksville all have more than one ice sheet, despite the fact that they have smaller populations.

Continued on 3

RINK:

RINK: Continued from 2

“Meanwhile, Squamish mayor and council continue to approve major new developments—over 1,000 new homes at a time—while essential amenities like rinks and pools are left underfunded and crumbling,” said Norman She believes this situation is unsustainable, and council needs to make an immediate commitment to produce new infrastructure adding not only one, but two new rinks. She’d like to see funded timelines that match the pace of development.

“The children of Squamish deserve better than being sidelined while new housing and billion-dollar projects rise around them.”

AN OPEN LETTER

A week before the protest, local doctor Tom Kranz wrote an open letter to the mayor and city council urging them to take action As the father of a hockey player whose practices were recently cancelled due to the ice being unsafe, he’d had enough of the inconvenience caused by the renovations and what he considers subpar conditions of the facility

“Didn’t this just happen a couple of years ago when the bleachers were deemed unsafe? We all huddled in the foyer to watch hockey Visiting parents repeatedly asked us why we can’t use the bleachers. How will we explain to these visitors that they must use washrooms outside the arena?” he wrote.

“Don’t worry that you can’t see through the glass; the kids are probably having a good time on the other side of the opaque misted glass above the boards, right?”

As a hockey parent and family doctor, he has a unique perspective on the issue.

“Working as a family doctor in Squamish for the past 15 years has given me a perspective of just how deep the problem of only one ice surface runs,” he wrote.

“I have many men as patients, who have families who play hockey, who would love to continue playing into their forties, fifties and beyond However, the only time offered for

adults to play is either during work hours or so late at night that work the next day is affected In my practice, I often have to redirect men and women who have “taken a break” from healthy habits to raise families,” he said “I attempt to motivate them to make healthy lifestyle changes and become more active Many of these patients have played hockey in the past; however, this is not something they can return to, at least not in Squamish.”

He noted the schedule isn’t inclusive for girls’ programming, and even the boys are receiving insufficient ice time.

“There just isn’t enough ice, and it can’t be divided any further. “

Kranz feels strongly that the only way forward is to break ground on not one but two new ice sheets.

“A second ice sheet was needed years ago. We need a second and third now. We need to build them now, and elected officials need to figure out how to pay for them,” he wrote.

“Please know that the lack of access to skating ice is on many Squamish residents’ minds these days,” he wrote. “Clear communication and bold steps to address a second and third ice sheet are desperately needed from you, our elected Squamish mayor and council.”

PARENTAL RESPONSE

Another disgruntled parent making his voice heard is Stephen Fryer, a professionally educated restorer and local business owner. He attended the protest on Tuesday.

“I attended the protest because I am a parent member of Squamish Minor Hockey with three children currently enrolled,” he said, noting he’s an alumni of the program himself.

“I am also a certified journeyman water restorer and have extensive knowledge in the problems that have arisen, specifically relative to humidity and the removal and remediation of such.”

He was heartened that council took a “meaningful first step” by ensuring the issue was added on an emergency basis to the

evening’s agenda

GOT NEWS?

Email your news tip or story idea to: jthuncher@squamishchief.com inapace@squamishchief.com

“However, nothing further was provided during this meeting, and no absolutes were determined regarding the re-opening of the facility. There was no accountability from those managing the project.”

He said there is strong resolve among the user groups, including Squamish Skating and Squamish Men’s Hockey, which were both present at the protest.

“I would suspect such demonstrations will happen weekly until such time that the ice is open for use and kids are back playing. People need to be held accountable and parents are resolved to be the voice for their children.”

He believes there has been fundamental mismanagement of the project.

OFFICIAL RESPONSE

The District of Squamish released an official statement last week, assuring users the facility would be open again as soon as possible

As of Sept 16, the arena is out of use through at least Friday, Sept 19

“We acknowledge how frustrating the unexpected closure of the arena is for ice users, and we appreciate that this interruption at the start of the season is incredibly disappointing. Re-opening the arena is a high priority for the District, and staff are committed to re-opening the arena as quickly as possible,” said media relations and content specialist Lilly Marie Peterson

“We have recently released a FAQ outlining the complex issues, including what action the District has taken for a resolution to this issue, including extensive information regarding the renovation work and how we got here.”

They’re also aware of the desire to introduce new ice sheets to the community.

“Council and staff recognize and acknowledge the community requests for an expanded pool and second sheet of ice. These items come with significant price tags, and various funding sources will be required.”

In other words, they will need to search for grants

“Grant funding from other levels of government is a primary mechanism anticipated to help fund Brennan Park renovations,” Peterson said

She said budget discussions for the upcoming five-year plan will start in October, and at that point, council and staff will discuss all the needs and wants in the community, as well as the trade-offs associated with each

“The financial reality is that there are significant infrastructure upgrades required throughout the District As such, recreation facility investments cannot be funded through taxation alone, and will need to rely on contributions from grants, fees collected from development, fundraising, and public-private partnerships,” she said.

“The District continues to explore all of these funding mechanisms to help finance and advance its capital projects.”

BLADES OF CHANGE

Squamish parents haven’t been sitting on their hands with this issue—they’ve created an online petition website full of statistics and assertions about the need for more rinks in town

They’ve called their initiative the Squamish Ice Rink Expansion Initiative, and the website is titled Second Rink Squamish, just so everyone’s clear what they’re looking for.

“Squamish is buzzing with activity, and our current ice rink simply can’t keep up From youth leagues to adult recreational teams, an expanding women’s hockey program, and a burgeoning appetite from figure skating enthusiasts, the demand for ice time is skyrocketing,” it reads. “But with only one rink to accommodate everyone, schedules are cramped, opportunities are limited, and residents are being left behind.”

The issues it lists include “New Programming Blocked,” “Large Rec League Waitlists,” and “Late Games Causing Friction,” among others

They’ve also included testimonials from those affected.

NEWS BRIEFS

DO YOU WANT TO JOIN THE SQUAMISH YOUTH COUNCIL?

Kids can get political, too, and you’re never too young to bring your voice to the table.

The search is now on for the newest members of the Squamish Youth Council, who will be working under the tutelage of sitting District councillors Lauren Greenlaw, Chris Pettingill and Jenna Stoner

“Youth council is a means to engage the youth in our civic processes, discussions about community health and well-being and gives them an opportunity to build relationships directly with community leaders,” reads the press release.

“We focus on learning about the governance structure, how to engage government, taking projects from inception to completion, critical thinking, team building, and of course: fun!”

Squamish Youth Council’s first meeting will be held on Oct. 8, then monthly on the first Wednesday of every month through to June, with a time commitment of approximately eight hours a month, including meetings.

Participant perks include: free bus pass, certificate of completion and letter of reference from mayor and council (with 80% attendance), a branded youth council hoodie, networking opportunities, and a chance to help shape the future by connecting with your peers to address issues affecting your community.

Applications are now available until Sept 24 for aspiring politicians between the ages of 14 and 24

This driver at Porteau Cove was given:

• A three-day driving suspension;

• An excessive speeding ticket under Section 148(1) of the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) for a fine of $368;

• A seven-day vehicle impound at his expense;

• At least three years of high-risk driving premiums that will push the total cost of fines and fees to almost $2,500

Another example of an incident logged by Mounties happened on Aug. 31, when a black Harley Davidson was recorded travelling 110 km/h in a 60 km/h zone at Lions Bay. The rider, a 61-year-old North Vancouver man, was given a breath test that led to two failure readings

He received:

• A 90-day immediate roadside prohibition (thus, losing his driver’s licence);

• A 30-day impound for the motorcycle;

• A ticket for excessive speeding under Section 148(1) of the B.C. MVA ($368);

• A ticket for unnecessary noise for his after-market muffler, Section 7A.01 of the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act Regulations ($109);

• At least three years of high-risk driving premiums that will push the total cost of fines and fees to over $2,500.

Go to the District of Squamish website for the application

MORE THAN 60 VEHICLES IMPOUNDED ON SEA TO SKY HIGHWAY

People just don’t seem to learn.

A spokesperson for BC Highway Patrol says even after the agency put out repeated warnings about increased enforcement on the Sea to Sky Highway, more than 60 vehicles were impounded for speed and impaired driving over the last week of August.

More than half of those impounds—31— happened over Labour Day weekend.

“There are still too many people driving unimaginably fast or impaired on the Sea to Sky,” said Cpl. Michael McLaughlin, of BC Highway Patrol, in a news release. “And while it’s hard to believe, we keep catching people doing both at the same time.”

One incident happened on Aug. 27, when a BC Highway Patrol motorcycle recorded a blue pickup driving 132 km/h in an 80 zone near Porteau Cove

The driver, who the RCMP said was a 29-year-old Vancouver man, was given a breathalyzer test for alcohol impairment and blew two “warns.”

A warn means the person showed a blood-alcohol level over 50 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood, so over .05. A “fail” result means the person has a blood-alcohol level over .08.

“Traffic patterns and volumes are shifting with back-to-school, and weather and darkness are bigger factors every day,” said McLaughlin “We’re encouraging you to slow down and plan for more time on the road It shouldn’t need to be said, but you also need to stay sober.”

MORE STUDENTS THAN PROJECTED, SO FAR

The reports are still coming in, and the numbers may change, but preliminary reports show a small uptick in enrolment in the Sea to Sky School District

“This is based on incoming reports, on how enrolment is looking in the opening days of school. These numbers are dynamic,” said assistant superintendent Paul Lorette, while presenting at the school board meeting on Sept. 10.

“So perhaps our projections were a bit less conservative than they have been in the past … but that could change and that could increase as high school students pick their X block courses.”

From K-12, the reports are showing 5,146 students enrolled—30 more than anticipated. There were increases in every category except for 7-9, which saw 11 fewer students than anticipated.

As for international students, those enrolment numbers dropped from 149 to 135.

“We know as a result of our review last year, our capacity has gone down slightly because at Howe Sound Secondary, our resident numbers are coming up, so the school doesn’t have as much physical space to accommodate a large number of international students,” he said

“But we’ve also increased our capacity in Pemberton, which is up nine students this year, which is great and certainly helps.”

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

FINISH IT: The rain did not deter locals from supporting the 2025 Squamish Terry Fox Run on Sunday, raising about $50,000 for cancer research. Jennifer Thuncher, Brian Finley (in red) and his son walked the course Finley is living with cancer, so was part of “Terry’s Team.”

PROVINCIAL SAR ASSOCIATION WELCOMES ROGERS’ NEW SATELLITE CONNECTIVITY

From Howe Sound to Yoho National Park, Canadians are testing out a new way to stay connected off-grid as part of a beta trial by Rogers Satellite

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

It makes cellphones a better tool in the backcountry and on the water.

On Sept 9, Rogers announced the expansion of its satellite service to more remote areas, including along the coastline and on bodies of water, such as Howe Sound and the Georgia Strait.

The technology, which uses Starlink satellites, is the first of its kind in Canada, according to Rogers, and turns a smartphone into a satellite phone for text messaging and text-to-911.

In July, the company launched a beta trial open to all Canadians on any device for free. The company will expand to support apps, data, and voice services, including 911 voice calls, according to the press release.

Chris Mushumanski, president of the BC Search and Rescue Association, says the technology helps improve search and rescue

both for the teams searching and for the individuals who are in the backcountry needing assistance

“Every time we deploy ground search and rescue volunteers into the field, communications is always a challenge, given the rugged and diverse terrain of our province,” he said

“Having a second device other than a radio, like a cellphone that can connect to a satellite greatly improves communication between searchers and base So that’s a really exciting development,” he said, adding it also helps searchers communicate with other first responders, such as requesting a helicopter, or other resources.

For the general recreating public, Mushumanski said individuals in need will be able to notify search and rescue crews that they need assistance sooner.

“We have always advocated that people call for help sooner rather than later. And so now, being able to access a satellite on your phone, and to be able to reach the services that are necessary to help that much sooner, rather than trying to find a cell window this is a great improvement for public safety—for people to be able to call for help in a much

quicker fashion, and then also tell us where they are and communicate that, so our search or rescue efforts are just that much more strategic and pinpointed.”

Mushumanski said the service doesn’t replace other backcountry communicators, like Garmin’s inReach, but instead is another tool in the toolkit.

“We’ve always advocated not putting your eggs in one basket only,” he said, adding that with people using their cellphones for everything from taking pictures to a flashlight, the battery can be drained.

Mushumanski advises outdoor enthusiasts to carry essentials such as a headlamp and backup phone battery.

He said that after the atmospheric river event of 2021, Rogers donated $1 million to the provincial association and committed to “partnering us with technological advances.”

“Since 2021, we have worked with Rogers on a number of different initiatives, including better cell access in places like the Highway of Tears. And this new satellite development was another opportunity for Rogers to work

ROGERS: Continued on 7

PHOTO BY ASCENTXMEDIA/E+/GETTY IMAGES

Squamish hikers are now more easily able to connect via satellite on their smartphones.

Loggers EastStorm SewerPhase 1

TheDistrictisupgrading stormsewer infrastructureinthe Loggers East neighbourhood to effectively manage heavier rainfall expectedwith climate change and accommodate growth.

An Integrated Stormwater ManagementPlan, completed by Urban Systems in 2020, identified aflooding risk in the LoggersEast neighbourhood.Upgrades of thestorm sewer system wererecommended to mitigate the risk of flooding includingthe recommendation to constructnew stormsewer along Finch Dive and Loggers Lane

Phase 1–2025 and early 2026

Storm SewerUpgrades onFinch Drive

IMPACTS INCLUDE:

•Traffic impacts including single-lane alternating traffic conditions.

• Construction noise and vibration due to construction activities

•Short-term water servicedisruptions.

•Construction hours will be 7a.m.to7p.m. MondaytoSaturday.

Phase 2isplanned to be completed afterthe Eagle Mountain Pipeline.

More information on the project is availableon theDistrict’swebsiteat: squamish.ca/loggers-east-storm-sewer-upgrades

LOCATION MAP

InfrastructureUpgrades

•Installation work on the watermain near Bill’s Placewillresume on September 22.

•Sanitaryliftstation rehabilitation on PiaRoad continues.

•Watermain upgrade on Birken Road continues

•Xwu’nekwParkSea Dike upgrades continue.

•Anongoing culvert replacementat the hairpin turnonSkyline Drivewill causetrafficimpacts

•The Garibaldi Cemeteryexpansion upgrades areongoing.

•Installation of anew transit shelter onDiscoveryWay is underway.

•EVCharging Stationsinstallation work at Brennan Park continues

squamish.ca/building-our-future

•Workonthe Victoria Street Active Transportation Upgrades continues on Victoria Street,between Cleveland Avenue and Loggers Lane.

•Storm SewerLining work will take placeonSeptember 23 and 24.

Temporaryclosures of the Squamish RiverDike and Riverside Trail are expectedduring work hours.

•Loggers East StormSewer projectcontinues

Crosswalk Installations and Safety Upgrades:

•GovernmentRoad beside Watershed Grill

•Buckley Avenue at Dentville Park

•Queens WayatResolution Way

•Queens Waybetween Commercial Wayand Pioneer Way

Stage 2Outdoor Water UseRestrictions remain in effect. squamish.ca/water

During Stage 2, the handwatering 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 asprinkler is allowed one dayper week based on neighbourhood:

•Evennumbered addresses: 6–9 am

•Odd numbered addresses: 7–10 pm.

MondayValleycliffe, Hospital Hill and SEAandSKY

TuesdayDowntown

WednesdayDentville,Business Park and North Yards

ThursdayLoggers LaneEast and UniversityHighlands

FridayGaribaldi Highlands

SaturdayGaribaldi Estates

SundayBrackendale

LOCAL DEVELOPERS SEEK TO SWAP OUT OFFICE SPACE AMID MARKET DOWNTURN

Council opts for case-by-case rezoning of stalled projects

Cleveland Avenue—Plaza at Junction Park—that has 1,541 sq. m.

COUNCILLOR FEEDBACK

JENNFIER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamsihchief.com

While some developers of approved but yet-to-be-built projects hope to swap out office space for something else, given current market conditions, they will have to come to council one by one to rezone.

That was the decision of council at a committee of the whole meeting on Sept 9, though members weren’t all in agreement on this.

BACKGROUND

District staff came to council seeking input on the rezoning of unbuilt office space to other uses to improve the viability of certain existing development projects

One of council’s stated objectives is to increase employment lands and spaces by September 2026

Thus, staff were seeking council direction on the options for development applications that could impact the overall creation of net new office space in the near term.

The staff report to council states that bringing the topic to local officials came about because staff have been approached by developers of approved, but not yet built, mixed-use developments to explore the possibility of removing the office space requirement and replacing it with other uses

“These developers have informed staff that these projects with their current office space requirements are no longer financially viable and will not proceed in the near term, given the current office market downturn,” the report to council states

In other words, developers say that without the ability to replace office space with more marketable uses, their projects will not proceed.

Three specific projects are named as seeking the change: one on Finch Drive in Loggers East, which had 2,016 square metres of office space, a development on Hunter Place that had been planned for 3,623 sq m, and one on

ROGERS: Continued from 5

with our volunteers and see what the needs are, and for us to also be able to participate in the beta testing. So, it has been a tremendous partnership and improvement in ground SAR services that we’ve seen And our hats off to Rogers for this accomplishment.”

Rogers says once the satellite testing trial ends in October, Rogers Satellite will be included for customers on the Rogers

Thus, the three developers are asking to swap out 7,180 square metres of office space, in total

Applications are already in or coming forward from these developers for a rezoning

Staff were preemptively seeing what the council felt about the requests

The report notes that when District staff presented to council in May of 2020, the office vacancy rate was effectively 0%. The goal, therefore, became to increase employment space, which is then reflected in what was required when the three developments in question were negotiated.

However, since then with the pandemic the shifting of employees from offices to more remote work has impacted the demands for office space, the report notes.

Staff presented council with two options to consider: keep the office components of the three developments as is, or swap the office components for other alternative uses

One option that was raised, planner Aja Philp told council, is boutique hotel space replacing some office space.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION

The staff recommendation was that council direct staff to explore alternative usage options for the office space.

Philp told council that the current vacancy rate for office space in Squamish is not known—not officially tracked—however, staff consulted local commercial real estate agents.

Planner Matt Gunn added that agents said that location and attractiveness of the office space were key when it came to finding tenants

Gunn added that planners and staff will continue to pursue as much office and employment space as they can, but if projects aren’t viable given the changing factors of the market, the question becomes if there is flexibility to course correct for that.

“What we want to know from council is do we flex on that to get housing units, or do we want to hold and make sure we get our vision at its optimal situation,” Gunn said to council

Ultimate Plan and will also be available for all Canadians for $15 per month. Canadians participating in the beta trial will receive a $5 per month discount for the first 12 months.

“We’re proud to expand this groundbreaking technology to Canadians across the country, including national parks, remote highways, and waterways,” said Mark Kennedy, chief technology officer for Rogers “Since we launched Rogers Satellite, we’ve had a tremendous response from Canadians,

Coun. Jenna Stoner questioned why the projects, which were approved years ago, weren’t built at the time

“What was the hold up? There was an option to build,” she said “It is not our problem to make projects viable, and developers hold for different reasons.”

Jonas Velaniskis, the District’s director of development services, responded that office space is very demand-driven and that developers have not been able to find tenants for it, thus the requests to change tack

Coun Chris Pettingill said he did not feel the need for council to switch gears over what he feels is a “momentary market situation.”

“From my perspective, we’ve seen inflated land values,” he said. “When you look at what is driving costs, land values—the speculation on that is, for me, what seems to be at the basis of all of this. For us as a community to work around that, that just supports that inflation of land values, and so I have an inclination to hold hard.”

He said he doesn’t think the space has to be office, but it has to be highly paid employment space so that people can live and work in town

Stoner added that in certain developments, she would be amenable to tourist accommodation or other employment space to replace office space. She would also want to see more of the residential units in the buildings where office space was being replaced and offered up for rental housing.

Coun Eric Andersen said that he was in favour of moving the three projects along.

“We need to address the built environment in the community,” he said. “Squamish has a handicap of gas station lots, undeveloped lots in our downtown area, and there is actually probably an economic cost to this,” he added. “I think we should be looking at moving forward with these developments.”

Coun Andrew Hamilton said he wants the council to stick to the policies that are set.

Developers can always move forward with a rezoning application if they so wish, he said.

“Three-off reactions to a changing market we’re creating instability in our policy and allowing those that ask to get. Whereas, we should be setting a policy and having

and we can see the service is helping people stay connected in places they weren’t before.”

Mushumanski said he put the technology to work in his personal life, too, recently, when he was fly fishing in the backcountry.

“Once it did connect with the satellite, which was very quick, it held on to the satellite for an extended period of time, which was really convenient to be able to send a multitude of messages,” he recalled, noting he was near Kenney Dam on the Nechako River in the centre of B.C.

everybody follow our policy objectives.”

Coun. John French also said he would like to see the office space stay employment space so that people who live in Squamish can work here

MOTION FAILS AMID SPLIT VOTE

Mayor Armand Hurford put forward a motion to receive the report and direct staff to: “explore alternative employment space options to reduce or replace the office space requirements in previously approved, unbuilt developments, including but not limited to tourism accommodation.”

Hurford noted that the inclusion of market rental units, affordable housing units, and daycare space made these projects appealing despite challenges related to office use.

“Those are all very appealing. We’ve heard some challenges with the office use,” he said, adding he wants to see what might be brought forward from the exploration of the options to replace office space.

“That doesn’t mean that what comes back after this exploration is ultimately supportable, but it gives direction to explore those options and see if they are palatable, as we have those goals around high-paying employment spaces or employment spaces that generate a high amount of economic benefit broadly to the community,” he said That motion failed, with Hamilton, Pettingill and Stoner opposed, which led to a tie, and so that is a failed motion

Coun Lauren Greenlaw was absent from the meeting.

FINAL DECISION BY COUNCIL

A motion to receive the report passed unanimously.

Hamilton then put forward a motion that simply stated “to provide the feedback given in relation to zoning of the unbuilt office space development.”

Hurford and Andersen were opposed. Motions discussed and recommendations made in a committee of the whole must be adopted at a regular council meeting.

See the full meeting on the District’s YouTube channel.

HIGH USAGE REPORTED IN SQUAMISH

Summer network traffic shows that, in B.C., Squamish is on the list of communities with the top usage during the trial, according to Rogers Other areas where the service was popular include Golden Ears Provincial Park, Hope, Incomappleux (East of Revelstoke), Invermere, Port Alberni, Princeton, and Yoho National Park For more information on the beta trial, go to rogers.com/satellite.

View this ad online:

We areplanning ahead for budget conversationsinOctoberand Novemberas Council reviews the 2026-2035Financial Plan.

Mark your calendarsfor community events!

BudgetBingo

October20,5–7pm atThe55ActivityCentre

CoffeewithCouncil October9

8–10am atBean&Co. (TheBrackendaleBean) 11am–1pm atCaffeGaribaldi 5–7pm atTheBackyard

FiscalCivicShowdown: TriviawithShaneFry

October23,6:30pm atPeakProvisions

atMunicipalHall(CouncilChambers)

IceArena Update andFAQ

squamish.ca/rec/temporary-arena-closure-faq

Find your flowandlet go with yoga

This fall,avarietyofyoga programs forall ages arerunning at Brennan Park Recreation Centre.

Prenatal Yoga –Connectwith your baby in this powerful practicedesigned to support youonyourmaternaljourney

NEW! Baby &MeYoga –For caregivers with little ones whoare non mobile/beginner crawling. FamilyYoga –For caregivers and children of all ages.

NEW! Flow Yoga –Cultivate self-awareness and adeeper sense of presence, leaving youfeeling grounded and connected.

Schedules for poolactivities including swimming lessons will be available to view onlineon October 1. Registration begins October 7at8a.m. LetsTalkSquamish.ca/budget-2026

Pool Shutdown: September 3–October 17

This year’s shutdown has been extended in order to complete work relatedtothe Brennan Park Recreation Centre renovation project.

DevelopmentReview

•38165 Chestnut Avenue –Development VariancePermit

•1126 Resolution Way–DevelopmentPermit squamish.ca/review

Business Opportunities

Requests forProposals

•Powerhouse Springs Well 8Design&Consultation

•Paradise Valley DryHydrant Engineering Services squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

2025–2029

Financial Plan

TheDistrict’scurrent Financial Plan is nowavailable online in acompleteand detailed printable version with new and improved user-friendly features squamish.ca/budget-2025

BUSINESS BEAT

COAST PERFORMANCE REHAB HELPS INJURED, PROVIDES PATH FOR WELLNESS

Co-owners Dr. Aidan Genik and Connor Lewis bring extensive experience to Sea to Sky venture

WILL JOHNSON

For The Squamish Chief

Rehabilitation is an active process, not a passive one.

Some may expect an injury to magically disappear with the shake of a few pills and a bit of rest, but the reality is more complex than that There are a myriad of conditions that require intervention to truly heal, and many people need proactive action to get back to their peak performance level.

That’s where Coast Performance Rehab comes in. Its owners say they offer ambitious and hands-on interventions that will help Squamish patients optimize their physical health, no matter what kind of injury they’re trying to treat—or prevent.

According to co-owner Dr. Aidan Genik, they see all kinds of people coming through their doors, each of them needing a custom-designed approach.

“Because of our name, people often associate us with sport and athletics. Ultimately, we work with a lot of athletes and partner with teams, but there is a broader idea to performance for us We see all swaths of people based on referrals, so we may be dealing with a new mom or a 75-year-old man who just likes to walk,” he told The Squamish Chief.

“We just hope to make an environment that is meticulously created, whether you’re on the table or in our gym space. So it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to squat 600 pounds or run as fast as you can. We help people do what they want to do, so they can get back to the activities they love.”

As a multi-disciplinary clinic in the new SEAandSKY development, the Coast team are experts in a variety of therapies with fancysounding names: instrument-assisted soft tissue techniques, spinal adjustments, manual therapy treatments and exercise rehabilitation, to name just a few.

Having opened in August, they have a team of nine that is already growing. Within their ranks are a chiropractor, physiotherapist, registered massage therapist, strength and conditioning coaches and an osteopath.

Genik has been a practicing chiropractor for the last eight years, and as a former competitive lacrosse player, he has an intimate understanding of how to optimize athletic performance and encourage injury recovery. He co-owns the business with Connor Lewis, a physiotherapist with seven years of experience who played basketball in university and has practiced all over the world, including in Australia.

Coast Performance Rehab is located in the SEAandSKY development.

The two of them met while working at one of Coast Performance Rehab’s other locations, and jumped at the chance to open the new clinic as an expansion of the work they were already doing

“We believe we have this model that really works for people wanting to get back to what they want to do with life,” he said

Dr Genik said their acronym—CPR—is perfect, because it’s another sort of medical intervention

“We’re bringing people back to life,” he joked.

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.

You're invited to celebrate Sept 20th, 2025 | 1:00pm to 3:00pm

50 YEARS

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

BritanniaMineMuseum gratefully acknowledges their communitysponsors:

NoticeofTax Sale

Noticeisherebygiven thatpursuant to Sections 645 &647 of the Local Governmentact,the properties listed belowmay be offered for sale on Monday, September 29,2025, at 10:00 am,inCouncil Chambers, MunicipalHall, 37955 Second Ave, Squamish, B.C., unless the delinquenttaxes plus interest arepaid.

003-093-492 33 Bracken Parkway Lot10, Block 30, Plan VAP14705, Part S1/2 of SE1/4, Section 22, Township 50, Group 1, New Westminster Land District, Manufactured Home Reg. #60458

MH Reg#4441 13-40022GovernmentRoad Group 1, NewWestminsterLand District, Manufactured Home Reg.#4441, Bay#13, 08338 Wagon Wheel AKA Angelo’s Manufactured Home Park,MHP Roll #08-338-400-0067701.000

028-647-572 305-1212 Main Street LT 70 DL486 NWDPLEPS264

015-270-131 88-38179 WestwayAvenue LT 4DL833 NWD PL

016-146-671

Please notethatunder Section 648ofthe Local GovernmentAct aperson authorized by council may bid forthe municipalityupto a maximumamount set by council

Anyperson upon beingdeclaredthe taxsale purchaser must paythe full amountofthe purchase pricebycash or certified chequeby3 pm thesame day. Failuretopay will result in property being offered forsale againat10 am on the following day.

Property purchased at the tax sale is subjectto redemption by the registered property owner within one year from the date of the annual tax sale.

TheDistrictofSquamish makes no representation express or implied as to thecondition or qualityof the properties being offered forsale.

Thepurchase of atax sale property is subjecttotax under the Property Transfer TaxAct on the fairmarket value of the property

This is the second of three such publications of this noticedated September 18, 2025.

TheDistrictofSquamish acknowledges that payments for delinquent taxes may havebeen received during the periodwhich the listings areprepared and their subsequent publication in the newspaper.

SIX LOCAL BUSINESSES CREATE SUMMER CAMP COLLABORATION

Unique approach gave kids a sample of multiple activities

WILL JOHNSON For The Squamish Chief

It’s a common problem.

Squamish parents who are looking to get their children engaged and active will sign them up for semester-long or even year-long activities, only to have their kids lose interest early and never go back Then they’re left footing the bill

To combat this, and to offer local kids a wide array of opportunities, six Squamish businesses collaborated on a summer camp concept in early July that saw campers aged five to 12 painting, reading, dancing, playing a game called Magical Kitties, doing gymnastics and learning the ways of a ninja warrior—all in three days.

“They went from one business to another, spending an hour at each business,” Dalia Shehata of Happimess told The Squamish Chief.

The six businesses that participated were the Squamish Dance Centre, Arrow Wood

Games, Ninja Gym, Cloud Gymnastics and Gather Book Shop The program ran for just over six hours for three days, giving the kids a quick taste of each business

The feedback from the 70 participants was overwhelmingly positive

“The kids absolutely loved it We had nothing but amazing feedback, so we’re probably going to run it again next year.”

It was a learning experience for everyone involved.

“At the end of the day, we would’ve made a lot more profit if we ran normal programming, but the amazing thing about these business owners is they

didn’t care. They knew it was good for the community and the kids, and it was new, unique and super fun,” she said.

Shehata doesn’t believe this concept has been tried before

“There are a lot of ideas you come up with, then you look it up and realize it’s done elsewhere, but I’ve never heard of anyone else doing this The relationship between these Squamish businesses is very unique in other markets you’d view them as competitors, but here we’re working together.”

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.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Summer campers show off their Happimess art.

THE SQUAMISH CHIEF NEWSPAPER, PRINTED EVERYTHURSDAY BY LODESTAR MEDIA

38113 Second Avenue Box3500, Squamish BC,V8B

CONTACTUS

PRINTEDEVERY

THURSDAY BY LODESTAR MEDIA

T: 604-892-9161

news@squamishchief.com ads@squamishchief.com classifieds@squamishchief.com subs@squamishchief.com production@squamishchief.com obituaries: ads@squamishchief.com

EDITOR

JENNIFERTHUNCHER jthuncher@ squamishchief.com follow @thuncher REPORTER INAPACE inapace@ squamishchief.com

SALESMANAGER

CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com

MULTI- MEDIASALES REPRESENTATIVE KIMBOATMAN kboatman@ squamishchief.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER DENISE CONWAY dconway@ squamishchief.com

PUBLISHER SARAHSTROTHER sstrother@wplpmedia.com

EDITORIAL

TRADE-OFFS

Weneed anew reccentre, that much is clear. But what is missinginsomeofthe conversations is whywedon’t have anice bigcentrealready.

We have made trade-offs as acommunity.

Some readersmay have arrivedintownmore recently,shocked to find that your newhomedoesn’t have theamenities that your oldhometowndid.

Butyourhometownalsodoesn’t have Jackson Goldstone.

Ourcommunity haschosentofocus on a mountain biking networkand culture—andthathas served thesport—and Squamish—well. We have a longlistof mountain biking phenoms, including Goldstone, MirandaMiller, JakobJewett, Rhys Verner,Marin Lowe,EllaMacPhee,and Elly Hoskin

Mountainbikingwas shownto bring$60 million toour localeconomy throughresidentand visitor spendingin2023, accordingtoaSquamishOff-Road CyclingAssociation (SORCA)analysis.

TheDistrictdirects about$100,000 ayearto SORCAtohelpmaintainour extensivetrail network.

Some funds—like $2 millionfor itsbase—also go toSquamishSearchand Rescue,one of thebusiest in the province,withnosmall percentage of the volunteerssentout for mountain bikers in distress.

Frankly,weget aton of bang forour buck from both SORCAand SSAR.

But it showswhere our priority hasbeen—we elected amayor who(then)owned amountainbike shop,for goodness sake.

As District staffnoted,areferendumthatwould havegottenus anew facility failed in 2005,when 73.6% of locals turned down an attemptbyelected officials to borrow $20million fora newice rink and otherrecreationalfacilities.

Thecomparisons made to othercommunities with newerand better facilities oftennegatethe cost.

B.C. EMERGESASA BIGWINNERIN CARNEY’SENERGYPUSH

GUESTCOLUMN ROBSHAW

The Squamish Chiefisa member of theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependent organization establishedtodealwithacceptable journalistic practicesand ethical behaviour. If youhaveconcerns abouteditorial content, please contactEditorJenniferThuncherat jthuncher@squamishchief.com. If you arenot satisfiedwiththe response andwishtofilea formal complaint, visitthe websiteatmediacouncil.ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163for additional information

Reproduction of anymateria containedinthispublicationis expressly forbiddenwithoutthe prior writtenconsent of thepublisher.

TakeCampbellRiver,the totalcosttobuild the REC-REATE Project, whichincludesaquatic and wellnesscentres andanew rink,is$131million,with taxes increasing to payfor it.

Further,morerecentDistrictcouncilshavehad to play catch-up as our town boomed andour vital infrastructure wascracking underthe strain

Thus, we have twonew fire hallsand anew public works yard underway.Not to mentionthe upgrades currentlyhappening at BrennanPark.

Past councils didn’t want to raisetaxes enough to coveranew reccentre.

Wouldyou have electedsomeone whoproposed an increase?

Yes, we couldreallyuse asecondsheet of ice, a biggerpooland many otheramenities that other communitieshave.But some trade-offs have been made.

What wouldyou have prioritized?

Whatever your thoughts,the District budget process is settobegin next month. Make sure you weighin.

The B.C. governmentscoredabig winSept. 11 with PrimeMinisterMarkCarney’snew list of “nation-building” projects

Notonlydid theprovinceget twoofthe five slots for majorprojects, it also gota sweeping pledge from Carneytopushinterprovincial energy ties, critical mineralsand land conservation in northeasternB.C

Just as importantly, though,was what wasn’t on the list:anew oilpipelinefromAlberta.Thatdidn’tmake thecut—partlybecause of thelackofaproponent, butalsobecause Carney said he wantstoprioritize large-scalecarbonstorage forthe oilsands first. Either way, it wasgoodnewsfor PremierDavid Eby, whohas made clearhedoesnot supportthe idea.A politicalshowdownonwhether Ebycould blockan oilpipelinedeemedinthe national interest hasbeen avoided. Fornow.

With that offthe table, therewas much forBCNew Democrats to be pleasedabout Thursday.Carney selected LNGCanada’sphase twoinKitimat andthe expansionofthe RedChris copper andgoldmine80 kilometres southofDease Lake as hisB.C.major projects.

“Thiswilldirectlyhelptransform ourcountry into an energy superpower,” said Carney In actuality, neitherproject needsOttawa’sdirect help in permitting LNGCanadaalready hasfederal andprovincial environmentalapprovals forphase two, becausethey were obtained as part of thefirst phaseofthe $40-billionproject.PermittingatRed Chris, which wouldextendthe mine’s life for13years,ishandled almost entirely by theprovince(whichissueda preliminaryenvironmental assessmentcertificate earlierthisyear)

Thebestway to view thesignificanceofthe move wasoutlinedbyEby,who said he considersthe inclusionofthe twoprojectsasa kind of public endorsementofliquefied naturalgas andminingby thefederal government.The primeministerwas saying to global companies: we want youtoinvest here.And that,asEby explained, hasnot always been themessage.

“I’llspeak bluntly: Ithink the[LNGCanada] project andphase twohad lukewarm supportunder the [Justin] Trudeauadministration,”saidEby.

“Westruggled to getthe federalgovernmenttothe tabletotalkabout this project. SincePrime Minister Carney wassworn in we’veseenrealinterestinthe project, andthe fact it’s on thelistissignificant.

“Whenyou have acoalition of state-owned

ENERGY: Continuedon13

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)

ENERGY: Continued from 12

companies and huge companies coming together on a project of this scale, they need certain assurances from the provincial government, from the federal government. They don’t want to get halfway through construction and find out that things have shifted or changed.”

The Red Chris project is “the tip of a spear” for 11 other potential mining projects in and around B.C.’s mineral-rich “golden triangle” region, said Eby. In effect, Carney endorsed not just Red Chris but the idea that those mining projects are in the national interest

Carney introduced the idea of the “Northwest Critical Conservation Corridor,” which he said will place critical minerals, clean power transmission between provinces and land conservation “the size of Greece” together under the major projects office. That could include energy interties with the Yukon and Alberta—something B.C. has long advocated for.

The combination of port expansion, renewable energy, Indigenous partnerships and conservation areas in the northwest feels like the next frontier in the relationship between a B.C. and federal government.

“This project includes protection of the land base, it moves us significantly, potentially, towards our 30 per cent of the land base by 2030 protection,” said Eby.

“It involves almost $30 billion in mine investment, more than 5,000 jobs, and electrification to the site, which drives down costs for the mining companies, making them more likely to get to final investment decisions. But also drives down emissions.”

Carney said it’s part of a “critical minerals strategy” to get projects “to final investment decisions within a two-year window.” That’s pretty ambitious considering it can take a mining project in B.C. a decade to get its permits and environmental approvals. Eby said he plans to visit Carney in Ottawa next week to push for even more projects

B.C. has a list it would like to advance, including the expansion of Vancouver’s ports, the dredging of Burrard Inlet and the Massey Tunnel replacement. Those actually could use Ottawa’s help, because they require lengthy assessments in federally controlled ocean waterways. Fast-tracking there would make a big difference in timelines and budgets. All in all, the prime minister’s major announcements last Thursday were about as good as the BC NDP could have possibly hoped for. They show a provincial and federal government firmly in alignment on natural resources, critical minerals, and British Columbia’s potential, as Eby put it, “to be the engine of the new Canadian economy.”

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

NOT ANTI-WOODFIBRE

Regarding the article entitled “Squamish activist granted appeal standing in FortisBC effluent permit case,” [published Sept 11].

The article begins with the sentence “… the three Citizens for My Sea to Sky (MS2S) anti-Woodfibre LNG (italics mine) activists…” which I find troubling for a news organization When supporters of the Woodfibre LNG/ FortisBC pipeline projects are referenced in an article, have you ever started it with anti-environment, anti-Squamish, or science-denying? When the WLNG or FortisBC proponents are the subjects of an article, I cannot remember one which

LETTERS POLICY

QUESTION

OF THE WEEK

started with tax-dodging, worker-exploiting, gas rate-payer and taxpayer-supported.

Rising Tide Squamish, the organization with which I am affiliated, and My Sea to Sky, the organization with which both Tracey Saxby and Charlene Williams are affiliated, are first and foremost advocates for social and environmental justice. Our public submissions and actions insofar as they relate to the Woodfibre LNG facility and FortisBC pipeline are in support of the project workers, First Nations communities, the citizens of Squamish, and the natural environment. It is through our support and advocacy for social and environmental justice and community that we feel an obligation to

speak out against existential threats. The other point people should understand is that WLNG or FortisBC are businesses doing what they can within the bounds of the laws within a jurisdiction, with regulatory authority of the governments setting those boundaries Our greatest disappointment and disgust is reserved for the politicians and others within “government” who allow and encourage these acts of harm There is no defensible argument for the continued expansion of oil and gas, leading one to conclude that our system of checks and balances is rife with corruption and broken.

Spencer Fitschen & Co. Rising Tide 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

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

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

How comfortable are you talking to strangers in Squamish?

Have your say at squamishchief.com

How much does the current situation with the pool and arena impact you? (Top 3)

From Squamish to Pemberton: A hiker’s imperfectly perfect adventure MOST READ STORY

PHOTO BY BARBORA SEDLÁKOVÁ SPECTACULAR SQUAMISH: Fishers on the Squamish River.

PHOTO BY JULIE MURAKAMI

RESILIENCY: Corn growing out of local concrete

Public Notice

Do youown property in Downtown Squamish assessedas Class 6under the AssessmentAct?

DistrictofSquamish Business ImprovementArea

BylawNo. 2799, 2021, will expireonMarch 31, 2026. Anew bylawisrequired to renew thebusiness improvementarea. Acopyofthe proposed District of Squamish Downtown Business ImprovementArea BylawNo. 3182, 2025, can be viewedat Municipal Hall or online at squamish.ca/public-notices.

Description of the service:

A Business ImprovementArea(BIA)isanarea designatedbyCouncil in which businesses and property owners can financeeffectivemarketing, promotional and revitalizationprograms fora specified area of the municipality. TheDowntown Squamish Business ImprovementAssociation (the Association) delivers the BIA servicein DowntownSquamish

Which properties areincluded?

Class 6properties in Downtown Squamish thatare locatedwithin the boundaries shown in bold onthe location map

What is the cost of the serviceand when does it come into effect?

Thenew proposed bylawwill be in effect until March31, 2031,and authorizesthe District,during the calendar years 2026through 2030, to granttothe Association funds notexceeding $634,744in total. Allcosts of the proposed servicewill be recovered through an annual tax levyonthe land and improvements of Class 6properties within the BIA. Theannual amountcollectedbythe taxlevyisshown inthe table below; this amountissharedbyall Class 6properties within the BIA boundary

Whatisthe process?

IF YOUARE IN FAVOUR

No action required.

IF YOUARE OPPOSED

Completeand submit a“Petition Against Form”.

If youchoose to signthe petitionagainst form, youare declaring thatyou arethe registered property owner or holderoroccupier of land who is responsible forpaying the local area servicetax.

Only one petition maybefiled per property within the BIA boundary.

Unless amajorityofthe owners representingat least 50% of the assessed value of the parcels which are subjecttothe tax levy,petition Council NOTtoproceed,BylawNo. 3187, 2025 maybe adopted without further notice, and the Business ImprovementAreaservice forthe Downtown Squamish mayproceed.

Class 6property owners desiring to petition against proposed BylawNo. 3187, 2025 must do so in writing using the petition form established by the Districtof Squamish. Petition formsare available at Districtof Squamish Municipal Hallordigitally by contacting corporateofficer@squamish.ca. Petition formsmust be returned properly signed to Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,POBox 310, Squamish, BC on or before4:30 p.m. on Monday, October 20, 2025.

Questions about Bylaw3187, 2025 or the petition against process: ContactSarah Morris, Manager ofLegislative Services by phone 604-892-5217 or by email corporateofficer@squamish.ca

This is the second of twopublications, datedthis 18th dayofSeptember,2025 at Squamish, B.C.

LOCATION MAP

FROM SQUAMISH TO PEMBERTON: A HIKER’S IMPERFECTLY PERFECT ADVENTURE

The Sea to Sky Trail stretches over 100 kilometres through some of B.C.’s most beautiful terrain

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Have you ever wanted to hike the Sea to Sky Trail, from Squamish to Pemberton?

Well, Emma Hull came to town from her home in Sun Peaks to do just that and came out the other side with lessons learned.

She would likely be the first to say the hike didn’t go as planned, but it worked out perfectly-imperfect in the end.

Ultimately, she recommends hiking the trail—which crosses Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton—for anyone who wants a unique, relatively accessible multi-day hike.

“It’s a really great opportunity to do a multi-day hike, but without having to go super hardcore,” she said. “You’ve got the three towns that you get to walk through, there’s loads of exit points because you’re not far from the highway, and you’re in the wilderness, you’re in the backcountry, but it feels very approachable and safe, and it’s really quite flat.”

‘I

HAD OVERESTIMATED MY CAPACITY’

Hull started her 110-kilometre hike at Sp’akw’us Feather Park at 9:17 a.m. on Sept 6.

She finished near the Co-op Pemberton Gas Bar (previously Husky), at 8:27 p.m. on Sept 9.

The first day, however, was tough.

For one thing, Squamish was under a wildfire smoke air quality warning, and it was muggy and hot.

“Heat I struggled with—and that really slowed me down,” she said, adding that there was a lot of walking on pavement that first day.

“So, really feeling that, but really I had overestimated my capacity.”

Hull broke her leg in a motorbike accident in 2009 and doesn’t have an ACL—one of the key ligaments that help stabilize the knee joint—and wears a brace.

She did 30 km that first day, making it to Starvation Lake, where she questioned if there would be a Day 2 for her on the trail.

“When I took my brace off, [my leg] was so swollen, and I had heat rash on my legs. I went to

HIKE: Continued on 18

PHOTO SUBMITTED Emma Hull strikes a pose south of Nairn Falls.

Eagle Mountain –WoodfibreGas Pipeline (EGP)Project

Reducing workforceimpacts

We’re continuing initiativestohelpreduceworkforce impactsand supportgender andcultural safetyin theSquamish community, including:

• in-persongenderand cultural safety training forthe EGPProject workforce

• ahealthand medical clinic forEGP Projectworkers’use inSquamish, supportingmentalhealthand overallwell-being

Read aboutour initiallaunch of these initiativesincluding thecontact information forthe third-party Respectful CommunityConduct Line at talkingenergy.ca/reducingimpacts.

• athird-party Respectful CommunityConductLine forany member of thepublictocalloremail about allegedconduct by an EGPProject worker occurring within theIndianRiver Watershedareaand a10-kilometre area aroundthe District of Squamish in violationof theAfter Hoursand Respectfor Communitysection of theEGP ProjectWorkerCodeofConduct,including harassmentorviolence

SEATOSKY WEDDINGEXPOBRINGSCURATED CELEBRATION

Coupleswillfindnoshortageofideas

andexpertguidanceatthisyear’s WildHearts-Sea to SkyWedding Expo,onOct.5

WILL JOHNSON

ForThe Squamish Chief

Notwo weddings areexactly thesame. Thereare an infinite number of differentwaystoapproachyourbig day, whichiswhy theupcomingWildHearts-Seato SkyWedding Expo is coming to theExecutive Suites Hotel&ResortinSquamishonOct.5, from 11 a.m. to 5p.m.—to give youinspiration, andthe toolsyou need to make your special eventtruly memorable.

TheSquamish Chiefsat down with co-host MandyPentlandtolearn more

Q: You’re co-hosting theWedding Expo.How does this compareto events you’ve hosted in thepast?

A: This is atwofold answer forme. On onehand, it is difficulttoshare creative directionwith anotherindustryprofessional. On theother hand,it’samazing to have apartner supporting thevisionand co-creatingwith me!Whenone of us runs lowonsteam because, let’sbehonest, these events canbe highly demandingofyourtimeand energy theother is full of life andpositivity. We both bringdifferent backgroundsand experiences to thetable that complement each other. Unlike mass bridal fairs, WildHearts-Wedding Expo is acurated SeatoSky weddingevent showcasing topwedding industry vendors whilehighlightingthe essenceofeach business.Partneringwithwedding musician Jeremy De Freitasallowsustospotlight live musicand weaveentertainment into theevent timeline,elevating theexperienceof attendees.WealsocollaboratedwithEvent Rental Worksand BilliesFlowerHouse Guests canexpectliveperformances, fashion shows, andentertainment allday

Q: Canyou tell us aboutyourcurationprocess?

A: Ourgoalinthe weddingindustry—andwith thewedding expo—istosee businesses succeed. We want vendorstowin newclients andgrowtheir businesses,all whilefollowing theirdreamsand offering services they are passionate about. So,wehaveaccepteda rangeofvendors at thewedding expo,from smalltolarge businesses,all with acommon passion forconnection andproviding excellentservice.

When acoupledecides to elopeormarry,they arechoosingtocelebrate andannouncetheir love andcommitmenttoone another. It is imperative that thevendors hiredtoprovide services on theirwedding dayensurethey exceed expectations.Welooktoinclude vendorswho lead with passion,communicate well,and deliverexquisite service. We have also askedvendorstobecreativeand come up with unique ways to be “inaction” at their booths. Forexample,alocal seamstress will

be workingonone of herdresses between chatting with attendeesseeking alterations, andwillhaveafew dresseshungwithvarying three-pointand five-point bustlesfor demonstration

This weddingexpoaimstoinviteattendees to come,learn,and meet wonderfulvendorsina personaland inviting setting. Thinkart curation meetswedding expo

Q: Whyisthe SeatoSky area so popularfor weddings?

A: TheSea to Skyhas everything in oneplace Therange of venueoptions is extensive, includingmountains,lakes,ranches,barns, meadows, beachfronts, valleys, forests, and beyond. From NorthVancouver to Lillooet, youcan find almost anyvenueyou candream of—exceptdesertsand castles. Renowned for itslushrainforestand expansivemountain views, theSea to SkyCorridor offers thespace andvariety to welcomeengaged couplesand provides endlesspossibilities forvisionary weddings.

Within ashort drive, youcan discover dramatically differentbackdrops—coastline, waterfalls,alpinelakes,old-growthrainforest, andski slopes—makingitideal fordiverse photoopportunities.The SeatoSky Corridor is approximatelyone to twohours northof Vancouver, with Squamish only an hour anda half from VancouverInternational Airport (YVR). This makesitanaccessibledestination forout-of-town guests whilestill feeling remote andscenic. Whistler andnearby resortsmakeyear-roundweddingspopular, with summer mountain ceremonies and winter ski-resort celebrations both common Manyiconicoutdoor sitesrequire permits, especially in provincial parksand at popular viewpoints, andlocal vendorsare highly experiencedwithlogistics andweather contingencyplanning. Theregionisonthe traditional territoriesoflocal FirstNations many coupleschoosetorespectfully incorporateIndigenouselementsorworkwith localIndigenousvendorsand cultural consultants. Unique localtouches—suchasa gondolaride, riversidebonfire,orwaterfall backdrop—makeSea-to-Skyweddings especially memorable.

Q: Howdoyou accommodatepeople’sdifferent desires forscale andambition?

A: Most coupleshavea budget,and Iliketothink of that budget as acontainer—anessential frameworkthatguidesthe overalldirection of your weddingplanning. Your budget helpsyou determinethe scale, scope, andstyle of your celebration, ensuring that your vision aligns with your financialreality.Itactsasahelpful guidelinetokeepyourdesires,ambitions,and expectations in check, so youcan focuson what trulymatters to youasa couple Havingaclear budget earlyonallowsyou to

prioritize keyelements—whetherit’sa larger guestlist, astunningvenue,special entertainment,orpersonalizeddetails—soyou can allocate resourceseffectively.Italsohelps you make informed decisionsabout whereto invest andwhere to be flexible,avoiding unnecessarystressoroverspending. Ultimately,yourbudgetisabout creating a meaningful,memorable weddingexperience that reflects your unique lifestyle, values,and love story. It ensuresthatyourplanningstays manageable andenjoyable,ratherthan overwhelming.Witha well-defined budget as your foundation,you cancraft acelebration that feelsauthentic,beautiful,and true to you—andenjoy theprocess alongthe way.

Q: Youare expectingover1,000 visitors.How will youkeepthemall engaged?

A: We have afullday of entertainment, live performances anddemonstrations, twobridal fashionshows at 12:30p.m.and 3:30 p.m., showingnew designer dresses from Isabelle’s Bridal.Plus, hourly giveaways. We have selected personable vendorskeento meet engagedcouples.Weare encouraging attendeestobring friendsand lovedoneswith

them,asthisevent is agreat opportunityto spendafullday taking in thebeautyofthe Sea to Sky. TheExecutive Suites in Squamish is centrallylocated forattendees to come early andhavebreakfast in Squamish before the expo at Free Bird restaurant or stay afterthe expo forasunsetdinneratThe Watershed Grill(best knownfor appearinginthe show Virgin River as Jack’s Cafe). Thereare endless viewstoenjoy,and it makesthe perfectday or weekendtripfor out-of-towncouples Find outmoreonthe WildHearts website.

Broughttoyou by CommunityFutures Howe Sound, TheSea to Sky’sresourcefor financing andfreebusinesssupport to help local businesses andentrepreneurs in thearea. Connectwiththemdirectlyand learnmore at cfhowesound.comoremail Kieran at kieran.hale@cfhowesound.com.

WE’RE HIRING

MANAGER

Doyou want tomake adifferencewhile leadinga team in aplace that truly matters?Pearl’sismore than astore -it’sa communitygem. Everypurchaseand donationhelps supportour programs,and we’relooking fora dedicated Manager to help us continue to shine.

More info: pearlspace.ca/careers Applytoday! Sendinterest to: cwalsh@pearlspace.ca

HIKE: Continued from 15

bed really worried about myself,” she said. “Then, when I woke up in the morning, I actually had blisters from the heat rash, so I woke up on the second morning, thinking, I have to abandon this.”

But, she checked in with herself, ate some breakfast, had a cooling swim in the lake, and was ready to hit the trail again, but with a revised goal

“Once I started walking again, I actually felt OK I was really surprised at my resilience to be able to continue with that,” she said “What I also did was decide, OK, instead of trying to push myself I’m going to shorten my days.”

She broke the hike down into sections, psychologically, and gave herself more time to complete the whole thing.

“That really helped. It’s a big mind game this long-distance hiking, definitely, so lots of self-talk to get myself through different sections.”

WILDLIFE VERSUS PEOPLE

While she saw lots of caterpillars, squirrels and toads, she didn’t have any bear encounters

She was bear aware along the route, hanging her food when she stopped, for example, and making noise as she hiked.

“On Tuesday evening, it was dark at the end when I was walking through the forest, and so I was singing to myself out loud to discourage any bears or cougars,” she said “I mean, I did

Meet Rooster!

He is acat nota chickenasyou can see. Roosteris averysweet boywho wasfound outinthe woodsneara loggingcamp. Akindsoultook roosterin, andtheylived happily together at thecampfor over amonth.Noone came lookingfor an orange cat.

see their scat. They are definitely around, but I didn’t have any encounters with them, which was nice.”

Hull said her concerns as a solo female hiker were more about people than wildlife

She took precautions, such as being vague about what she was doing, when she spoke to those she ran into along the way.

But in the end, she didn’t have any negative or concerning interactions.

“Honestly, everyone that I spoke to was actually super friendly,” she said

AWE AND BEAUTY

Though she describes the trail as very long, there was awe and beauty along the way.

“The last section of the trail, north of Whistler to Pemberton, is so beautiful,” she said, adding that, in particular, she enjoyed a seven-kilometre section called Gord’s Garden, which is named for the late Gord McKeever, the Sea to Sky Trail’s original project manager.

“You’re going through an old-growth forest. There are these enormous fir trees, and there’s a lava bed that you cross alongside the Green River, and I wish that I could have lingered there for longer. It is absolutely incredible,” she said.

“They’ve done an amazing job with the trail.”

For Hull, the hike is a great way to explore our own backyard

“It was really a neat way to slow down We don’t need to go far away on these crazy, epic journeys And our hikes don’t have to be crazy hardcore You can do this and get to stop I had a steak dinner one night when I was in Whistler, you know, treats like that,” she said

It’s a big mind game this longdistance hiking, definitely, so lots of self-talk to get myself through different sections.

EMMA HULL

‘IT JUST SHOWS HOW STRONG AND RESILIENT WE ARE’

Reflecting on the hike, Hull said she is proud of herself for the decisions she made along the way.

“I learned a lot about how to take care of myself on the trail, making sure that I was proactively eating and drinking—not waiting until I was hungry or thirsty, which I know sounds silly, but Day 1, I hadn’t done that, and I had it nailed by the last day,” she said “I stopped and actually took the time to take the breaks and sit in the creeks, realizing that my primary objective had to be taking care of Emma, so that then all the other things flowed through that,” she added.

“It just shows how strong and resilient we are.

And if you actually take care of yourself and believe in yourself, you can really do incredible things.”

BE A SMART ADVENTURER

Here are the three Ts from AdventureSmart trip plan, train, and take the essentials—to help make any hiking or camping trip, like the one Hull took, safe and enjoyable:

Trip plan

Decide where you’re going and how long you’re going for. Give your plan to someone you trust—so if you don’t return on time, they know where to send help

Train (and know your limits)

Obtain the knowledge and skills you need for the terrain you’re embarking on Know and stay within your limits Unprepared people can get into sticky situations. Sticky situations don’t always turn out well.

Take the essentials

No matter how short your camping adventure is, always pack the essentials. AdventureSmart recommends:

• Flashlight/headlamp + extra batteries

• Fire-making kit

• Signalling device (whistle, mirror, etc.)

• Extra food and water

• Extra clothing

• Navigation / communication devices (GPS, etc.)

• First-aid kit

• Emergency blanket/shelter

• Pocket knife

• Sun protection

• Season and sport-specific gear

He wasdirty andunderweightbut within time he gotvery comfortablewiththe finer things in lifelikea warm bedand good food.Thingsweregoing really well butitwas time for thekindsoultoleave thecamp. He broughtRoostertohis Grandson whowas very happyto take thecat in.Unfortunately,there wasanother catinthe home andRoosterwas nothappy aboutthe livingsituation Sadly, they hadtofind anew placefor Roostertogoand that is howheendedupwithushereatthe SeatoSky BC SPCA. If youare lookingfor amellowpersonality andlotsof cuddles, then Roosterjustmight be thechicken or catfor you.

Breaking News

WOMEN’S SQUASH WEEK RETURNS WITH FREE SESSIONS FOR BEGINNERS

For any woman in Squamish curious about trying a new sport or meeting like-minded locals

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief.com

If you are a Squamish woman who has never heard the thwock or pop of a soft rubber squash ball hitting the walls of a court, this may be your chance to do so

Women’s Squash Week is back at the Squamish Squash Club, located within the Squamish Valley Golf Club facility.

The free event—open to women new to the sport, or those who haven’t played much or in years—takes place on Tuesday, Sept. 23 and Thursday, Sept. 25.

Rackets and goggles are provided.

The format consists of four 90-minute sessions, each with coaching followed by play time, all led by women for women.

According to the Squamish club’s Dara Sklar, its membership is nearly half women, compared with about 23% female involvement nationally

“That strength started with Women’s Squash Week and continues because newcomers find friends, confidence, and a sport that feels fun and welcoming, instead of intimidating,” she said “Squash is skill-based, so you don’t have to be

the fastest runner or the best athlete to play well, progress, and get a good workout.”

Last year, the club sold out its Women’s Squash Week intro sessions, with 40 women participating

Of those participants, 21 joined the Squamish club for a fall trial membership in 2024, and 11 carried on for the full season, Sklar said

“It’s always exciting to see such a strong conversion rate from just trying it out to becoming part of the club community.”

For locals who already play tennis or pickleball, there is a crossover to squash, according to Sklar.

“While the swing mechanics are different from hitting over a net, players with racket sport

backgrounds already have great hand-eye co-ordination—and that gives them a big head start,” she said “Many tennis and pickleball players find squash to be a fun challenge, with the added bonus that the enclosed court keeps the ball in play and rallies going, and of course, that it is indoors and can be played year-round.”

Sklar acknowledged that sports communities in Squamish can sometimes feel exclusive, especially for those who are new to town, with elite athletic groups that keep to themselves

This squash trial event is meant to be warm, welcoming and fun.

“Squash is a fantastic sport for newcomers looking to connect. Women’s Squash Week works so well because we bring in a whole cohort of beginners at the same time, which makes it easy to meet people who are also brand new and on the same learning curve,” she said.

“We’re intentional about being welcoming, and squash players tend to be encouraging of newer players. That’s why so many of the women who try the sport in September are still here years later. We’re a friendly group, and it shows.”

To join, create a free pay-as-you-go account at squamishsquash.ca, then RSVP to a session If it’s full, add yourself to the waitlist

LOCAL RIDER SURPRISES WITH TOP FINISH AT RED BULL OUTLIERS

‘I

thought that’s it, the race is over,’ said Jordyn Gosteli—but two hours later, he crossed the finish line ahead of dozens of seasoned pros

WILL JOHNSON

For The Squamish Chief

Sometimes there’s an advantage to being at a disadvantage

Squamish dirt biker Jordyn Gosteli had just begun his event at the Red Bull Outliers race, a two-hour enduro competition held on Sept. 5 and 6 in a riverbed outside the ghost town of Steveville, Alta., when he made a pretty significant mistake.

His goal of finishing in the Top 10 didn’t look good.

“I was maybe third and went back to the mid-20s and thought that’s it, the race is over I’m just going to ride for fun now. But being calm and collected like that, I started picking guys off and not being in my head,” he told The Squamish Chief.

“Literally the last kilometre I found another guy on the course who had a number in the same category as me, and he was up front, so I figured I’m racing this guy and then he made a mistake and I passed him. I thought no way, does that mean I’m in first now? There was no live scoring.”

He ultimately finished with a time of two hours, two minutes and 46 seconds, beating 58

professional riders.

Gosteli has lived in Squamish since 1998 and has a number of accomplishments to his name, including placing first in Canada in mountain biking in 2010, but it’s only since the pandemic that he’s become interested in dirt biking and motocross. He decided at the last minute to participate in the Red Bull Outliers event, and didn’t even train beforehand

“This race was pretty much off the couch, with

minimal fitness, but that drive to race and push myself has always been there. Once there’s that competitive aspect, I get locked in,” he said.

“It was a super cool event. It was a last-minute decision to go, me and my two buddies who drove together. It just happened to line up with our week off, and I knew a bunch of Squamish and Pemberton people were going,” he said

“This was more for fun, which made it easier to perform than if there was a bunch of pressure.”

PHOTO BY AARON LEYLAND Can you spot Jordyn Gosteli?

MANFREDERICHNEUBERT

passedawayinSquamish on September1st,2025, at the ageof 85.

Hewas borneonDecember30th,1939 in AnnabergBuchholzinEastGermany

Hemoved to West Germanyand became amastertooland die makerin1967. Shortly thereafter,hegot married and hadtwo sons

In 1974, he immigrated with his family to Canada.HesettledinSquamish and workedatBCRail until he retired. In his free time, Manfred wasanavid hunter and went on many huntingtrips.

He is survived by histwo childrenMatthias &familyand Friedhelm& family. Aprivate ceremony washeldonSeptember10th forclose relatives.

Previously Century21, ouroffice hasbeen providing exceptional real estate salesand rental accommodation services in the SeatoSky Corridor &throughoutBC.

TO VIEW... www.prmbc.ca 604.892.5954 Unit 101-38142Cleveland Ave, Squamish

»squamishchief.jobfind.findem.ca

SCADATechnician –Regular

Youwill be responsible forSCADA systems used across our infrastructureservices.This is ahandson role thatplays acritical partinensuring the reliabilityand efficiencyofessential public utilities Twoyears experienceinelectrical automation and SCADAsystems maintenanceisrequired.

BUILDING

&WellnessPlan available

HEAVYEQUIPMENT OPERATOR – Minimum5years or 5,000 hours operating experience onexcavator. Full-time, Monday –Friday.$33-$46 per hour.

CRUSHING &EARTHWORKS MANAGER – Must have experience with mobile crushing plant and heavy civil construction. $33-$46 perhour

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER – Greatopportunity to learnon-the-job. Stamina for physically demanding work and perseverance to braveinclement weatherrequired. Previous experience preferred but not required.Training provided. $28-$33per hour

PIPE LAYER –Minimum 5years experience in civil construction.

Full-time, Monday –Friday.$33-$43 per hour

TRUCK DRIVER –BCDL Class 1orClass 3withair brakes required.Manual transmission. 2years experience preferred. $35-$41.50 per hour.

WELDER –Red Seal or equivalent. $40.19-$49.15per hour

PROJECT COORDINATOR –Minimum2yearsexperience preferred.$29-$40 per hour.

ACROSS

1. Bungle

5. Night fliers

9. Talented

12. To the ocean

13. Browning or Millay

14. Be deceptive

15. Schoolroom item

16. Roman wear

17.Wayside stoppingplace

18. Bowling number

20.Watered down

22.Taketothe slopes

24.Pearl maker

26.Request 28. Present 32. Heavy

33. Boulevard

35. Convey orally 36. List of names

37.Consequence

41. Graceful tree

42. Friendly

45. Slip up

47.Gorilla or orangutan

48. Putaway

50.Over

53. 22nd letter

54. Cassette

55. Flowerurn

56. At wit’s_

57.Winter snowslider

58. What is new?

DOWN

1. Ticked off 2. Operate 3. Celebration 4. Synthetic 5. Elect 6. Forest 7. Lawful

8. No longer fresh

9. Touched ground

10.Cone-producing tree

11. Watchover

19.Musical tone

21. Impulses

22.River deposit

23. Legjoint

25. Desire

27.Ran in neutral

29.Inside

30.Oil

31. Semester

33. Semicircle

34. Ballot

38. Boxers’weapons

39.“ Attraction”

40.Run away to marry

42. Primitive dwelling

43. Cafe sign

44.RexorLou

46. Rant and

49.Join in marriage

51.Curvy turn

52. Very small

Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling

LASTWEEK’SANSWERS:

ARIES March21-April19

Be patientthis week.Apromising agreementisonthe way, whether in businessorlegal matters You’ll stand upfor your rights and thoseofyourcommunity. An unexpectedmarriageproposal could be in the cards.

TAURUS April20-May20

Youmay feel overwhelmed with work this week,but your partner’s love will be afactor inhelpingyou find moments to relax. Spend qualitytime together and make small changes to yourroutine.This will breathe new life into your relationship and strengthen your bond.

GEMINI May21-June 20

Preparefor achallenge that will push you to outdoyourself and showeveryonewhatyou’remade of.You must takethe rightsteps to make this happen. If youwant to stay fit,consider takingupa sportwithfamilyorfriends;their motivation will inspireyou

CANCER June 21-July 22

Balancingworkand family life cansometimesbetricky. Don’t hesitate to askyourloved ones for help.Ifyou’reina new relationship,it’stimetostart thinking aboutyourfuture together

LEO July 23-Aug.22

Be especiallycautiouswhile you’redrivingthis week.Accept invitations from lovedones to spend time together.You’rea skillednegotiator, so you’ll easily resolveany conflicts that come up.Yoursmile will ease any tension.

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22

You’ll uncoverunexpected resources to kickstartyour businessorfinish up projects at home beforewinter. By nurturingaharmonious home environment, you candeepen yourintimateconnection with yoursignificantother

LIBRA Sept.23-Oct. 22

You’ll startthe week with boundlessenergy and ambition. Just remember to pace yourself so you can avoid burnout.Inyourlove life,let things unfold naturally without rushing. By takingthis approach,you’ll experience the mosthappiness.

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov.21

Beforedivingintoaproject,plan carefullyand setabudgetto achieve yourgoals.Stresscould sapyourenergy and enthusiasm. Consider doingmeditation to recharge yourbatteries

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21

You’ll be surroundedbymany people this week,whichcould increase yourstresslevels.Take regularbreakstopreserveyour energy and avoid stallingon projects or compromisingthe qualityofyourwork.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19 By managingyourtimemore effectively, you’ll be able to accomplish all yourtasks while still givingyourself amomenttounwind. Your hard work won’t go unnoticed; yourloved ones mightsurpriseyou by organizingaparty to show their appreciation.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb.18

Taking abreak is crucial for evaluatingyourcareerdirection. If you haven’t hadtime off recently, arelaxingweekend could provide the clarity you need to make athoughtful decision and adjustyourpath.

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20

Youmustmakechanges at home and work to move toward your goals.Once you make these importanttransformations,you’ll feel adeepsenseofpride.These changeswill driveyourpersonal growth

HOWTOPLAY:

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

TheParish of St.John the Divine, Squamish

Holy Communion and Morning Worship Sundays at 10:00 AM

Rev Cameron Gutjahr 1930 Diamond Road 604-898-5100

www.squamishanglicanchurch.ca info@squamishanglicanchurch.ca

WorshipService

Sundays 10am on our website and Facebook Live 2262ReadCres. 604-898-3737 www.squamishbaptistchurch.org

Exalting Jesus,EquippingHis Followers,Engaging theWorld See Website for Service times and location

coastalchurch.org/squamish

SUDOKU

Discover avibrant arrayofexhibitorsshowcasing products andservicestailoredfor seniors. During our breakoutsessions,professionals will offerinteresting andtimelyinformation. Comedownand savour light refreshments while connectingwith your community.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore, learn, andhavefun!

Mark your calendar andbring afriend!

FRIDAY

SEPTEMBER26, 2025

12:00– 3:30 PM

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Woodfibre LNG

Squamish FuneralChapelFor the OneYou Love Squamish Hospital Foundation NestersMarket

Presentations :

55+ Activity Centre 1201 Village Green Way Squamish

Vendors

DavisPharmacy

SeatoSky Community Services

HearingLife

Squamish Westwinds Senior Living

Wills andEstates EddieCarterRace &Co

Exploreand

NestersMarket

District of Squamish Recreation

Squamish Public LibrarySquamish

55+ Community SocietyThe Nurse

Next Door

Community ResponseNetwork

Estate Management

DavidSweeney SweenyBride