Squamish Chief

VIOLENT

& PROPERTY CRIME RISE IN 2023

RCMP say increase could be result of victims feeling more comfortable coming forward and reporting crimes

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Violent crime in Squamish has risen over the past year, but police say the increase could be a result of victims feeling more comfortable reporting crimes

At the March 26 committee of the whole meeting, two Squamish RCMP members, Staff Sgt. Gareth Bradley and Sgt. Dallas Langley, presented an annual update about local crime to Squamish council members.

Notably, both violent crime and property crime occurrences increased in 2023 compared with 2022

VIOLENT CRIME

When discussing violent crime, Langley said the RCMP believes their collaborative work in town may be contributing to victims coming forward more often when crimes occur.

“Now, ultimately, these numbers might look bad. What I would say would definitely account for a lot of these is we spent a significant amount of efforts over the

DISTRICTOFSQUAMISH

LET’S TALK ABOUT...

Improving RoadSafety

The Districtisseeking feedback from residents of all ages, neighbourhoods and transportation preferences to understand theareas of concernrelatedtotrafficspeeds.

Visit our online public engagementplatform until April5tosharelocations wherespeed is aconcern through an online mapping tool

NorthyardsPark

TheDistrictofSquamish is developing aneighbourhood parkatthe end of No Name Road in Squamish.

We want to know howyou currently use the space, and whatyou wish forthe space in the future.Your inputwill be used to develop concept ideasfor theparkspace. Theconcept idea(s) will then be presentedtothe neighbourhoodbeforeproceeding to design.

Recycling

TheDistrictofSquamish is working hardtoreduce recycling contamination.

Contamination occurs when material thatis not accepted forrecycling is put in recycling bins.

Help us understand the challenges youfacewhen recycling and howwecan better support your efforts.

INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

•UniversityReservoirs 2and 3- Construction of twoglass-fused steel reservoir tanks is 90% complete. Each of these tanks measure approximately 17 metres in diametreand 10 metres high, and will help to improve water storage capacityand delivery forSquamish.

•WastewaterTreatment Plan Expansion and Improvements – Construction is underway through summer 2025 on anew secondary clarifier and concentric bioreactor. Learnmore: squamish.ca/wwtp-expansion

squamish.ca/building-our-future

BRENNAN PARK UPGRADES UPDATE

Thefirst phase of the Greenand AccessibilityRetrofit Projectisnow underway, startingwith upgrades to the icearena changerooms.The changerooms will beclosed to the public fromApril until end of August and willrequireice users to arrive at the centre predressed beforeusingthe arena until end of May.

Upcoming impacts:

•Arena changerooms closed through approximately mid-August

•Arena closed May31through approximately midAugust

•Arena washrooms will remain open

•Minor parking impacts duetoconstruction

• Minor tree removalnear pool lobby entrance startinginMarch

•Sitepreparation and foundational work forstaff administration area expansion to begin in the summer

squamish.ca/futureBPRC

WHAT’SHAPPENING IN RECREATION AND CULTURE

PutonYour DanceShoes |19+

Time to move those hips and learnexciting new dancestyles! New beginnersand up arewelcome No partner required.

Come ready to groove to the beats of International Dance, Swing Dance, Latin Dance,Burlesque and Line Dancing

AfterSchool Rides

Develop your mountain bike skills on the trails you love,and some thatyou haven’ttried before! This programisfor emerging riders of all genders who arebuilding their confidenceontrails.Focus will be geared toward fun, flowy trails with lots of opportunityfor skills-practiceand repetition.

Next 55+ Bus Trips

•Granville Island: April24

•Hasting Racecourse –Opening Day: April27

View the pool schedule:

View the arena schedule:

fordetails and registration visit: squamish.ca/rec

BUSINESSOPPORTUNITIES

•2024 Powerhouse Springs Well Rehabilitation Program -Request forQuotations

•Mamquam Bridge Deck Resurfacing and Active Transportation Analysis -Request forProposals

•Landfill GasSystemExpansion Phase 2-Supply & Installation -Request forQuotations

squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

WLNG FLOATEL PERMIT HEADED TO PUBLIC HEARING

In a unanimous vote, council sends temporary use permit for floatel to April 23 public hearing with a location to be determined

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Squamish residents will soon have an opportunity to provide feedback on the Woodfibre LNG (WLNG) floatel.

At the March 26 committee of the whole meeting, Squamish council members unanimously approved scheduling a public hearing about the temporary use permit for WLNG’s floating worker accommodation, often called the floatel. The floatel is a proposed accommodation for constructing the liquefied natural gas export facility, which is to be located about seven kilometres from downtown Squamish on Howe Sound.

The hearing will be on Tuesday, April 23, and will likely be held outside of council chambers However, no confirmations were made about the location at the meeting. Council will likely make their decision about the permit after the public hearing.

Municipal planner Vrish Prahalad said the vessel in question will hold between 400 and 600 workers at peak construction and has 652 available cabins Prahalad noted that there are a few permits from Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) for the floatel that are pending approval, which include food service, water and sewage Workers residing in the District of Squamish are currently ferried to WLNG from Darrell Bay, but that may change to Site B in October. Workers who were not residents in Squamish before Sept. 20, 2023, will be required to stay on the floatel, including workers providing support services. Workers on the floatel won’t have non-work access to Squamish.

Council members largely did not hint which way they were leaning about the TUP, but Mayor Armand Hurford did ask if they could approve a

shorter TUP with the possibility of renewal.

Jonas Velaniskis, the senior director of community development with the District, said having a shorter permit is a possibility.

“With sort of unusual or uses that we haven’t had a lot of experience with, and I would say that this is certainly one of them, it’s not uncommon to have a shorter period of time as kind of like a testing period to make sure that the permit conditions are effective,” said Velaniskis.

Kate Mulligan, the director of major projects - industrial, added TUPs could only be renewed once for a maximum duration of three years.

Coun Chris Pettingill said during the

comment portion of the meeting that he was interested in the shorter TUP and called it a way to have some project accountability

“The idea of a shorter temporary use permit makes a lot of sense. And, if things are going well, then maybe a renewal. I would definitely want the renewal to come back to council,” he said.

Also during comments, many council members said they looked forward to hearing from the public about the permit. Some council members still believed there were some issues and sought more information.

“I do think that this has come a long way in

addressing many of the concerns that have been raised by our community over time, but there are still some outstanding ones,” said Coun Jenna Stoner

Hurford offered feedback to the proponents, saying that having FortisBC and WLNG work jointly on some aspects would be beneficial for the public understanding of the impacts of the project.

About 20 people were present in council chambers for the mid-day meeting, which could signal a large turnout for the upcoming public hearing. View the meeting on the District’s YouTube channel.

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Council members discuss the WLNG floatel at the March 26 meeting in council chambers

RCMP: Continued from 1

last year making sure that our officers have trauma-informed training practices to best support victims,” he said

“Additionally, we’ve worked collaboratively with a lot of partners in town, including places like PearlSpace, [Vancouver Coastal Health], Under One Roof, to determine how to best support victims so these people are actually willing to come and report these crimes to police.”

For comparison, the number of sexual assault occurrences has fluctuated over the last few years, with 34 in 2023, 23 in 2022, and 27 in 2021. Similarly, domestic violence occurrences fluctuated with 70 in 2023, 48 in 2022, and 58 in 2021.

However, the total number of assaults has shown an upward trend, with 235 occurrences in 2023 compared with 189 in 2022 and 184 in 2021

Total violent crime occurrences equal 509 in 2023, 412 in 2022, and 438 in 2021

PROPERTY CRIME

While property crimes have increased in 2023 compared with 2022, there were fewer instances than in 2021

Langley said fraud increased “significantly,” with 177 instances in 2023 compared with 108 in 2022 and 132 in 2021 He attributed some of the increase to “much more elaborate” scams than in the past

“Many of these offences included elderly persons as vulnerable victims,” he said. “What we’re looking to do with these circumstances is to engage our community response unit to provide education throughout the community.”

Bike thefts also showed an increase throughout the last couple of years, with 68 in 2023, 52 in 2022, and 48 thefts in 2021.

MENTAL HEALTH FILES

Generally, the overall mental health files in 2023 were down from 2022 and 2021

Unlike last year’s presentation, this year’s included statistics on files related to Under One

Roof and calls to the area Compared with 2022, both were significantly decreased, with related files dropping to 106 from 243 and location occurrences dropping to 130 from 245.

When asked about crime prevention, Langley said there would be a big focus on mental health support and working with partners alongside a focus on fraud and bike theft.

“We want to continue focusing efforts on the mental health piece and working with our partners because a lot of the statistics that we have, in some way or another, end up leading back to mental health issues in the community,” he said.

ROAD SAFETY

In terms of road safety, overall collisions decreased in 2023 compared with both 2022 and 2021 but still topped over 300. There were 309 collisions in 2023, with 348 and 329 in 2022 and 2021

General violation tickets took a significant drop over the three-year period, with only 276 in 2023 compared with 527 in 2021

However, impaired driving has increased throughout the past few years, going to 218 in 2023 from 154 such instances in 2021 In April 2023, at council, Insp Robert Dykstra speculated they could see a rise during 2023, as he said they had already seen quite a number of impaired driving instances at that time

LOOKING AHEAD

Bradley told council that come April, the department will have six new RCMP members with under a year of service.

“It’s good to have young eager people to come in,” he said.

Additionally, Langley said they will be getting body cameras within the near future. Alongside the cameras, Langley said transcription service and new video systems will be added to the detachment, which will take extra resources.

“It’s going to cause a significant amount of extra disclosure that is going to have to be prepared and disseminated to crown prosecutors in almost any file that we attend to,” he said

Bradley said the cameras would help with efficiencies in some areas, such as cutting down on extensive interviews as incidents will be recorded in the moment

Note: The March 26, 2024, presentation to council only included 2022 and 2023 data The Squamish Chief pulled statistics from the April 2023 presentation to council to include 2021 data

Some statistics between the two presentations for 2022 had changed and Staff Sgt. Gareth Bradley confirmed in an email to The Squamish Chief that sometimes there is a lag and adjustment of statistics by the records team, as they need to adhere to Statistics Canada standards. The Squamish Chief used the most up-to-date numbers.

PHOTO BY AAFREEN ARORA

SQUAMISH FARMERS’ MARKET DRAWSINMILLIONSOFDOLLARS:STUDY

Thepopular market hasbeenleaning into localproduce to entice locals to return everyweek

SCOTTTIBBALLS stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

The Squamish Farmers’ Market contributes $7.5 milliontothe localeconomy on an annual basisaccording to astudy by the BC AssociationofFarmers Marketsand the University of Northern BritishColumbia

Thestudy wasdonein2023aspartofa provincewide studyintofarmers’markets across BritishColumbiatomeasure theireconomic impact on surroundingcommunities.

By thenumbers,the Squamish portionofthe studycalculatedthatvisitorsto themarketspent over $5 millionannually–with that number extrapolated from thenumberofattendees on theday of thesurvey(3,305),the averagespend of each attendee surveyed (recordedtobe $46.13)acrossthe 41 weeksthe market operates

Combined with an assessed1.5 multiplier beingthatfor everydollarspent at themarket, another50cents is spentata surrounding businesses—the well-established Squamish Farmers’ Market wasfound to draw in $7.5 million

Market manager, MeganVerge,told The Squamish Chiefthatthe localmarketstroveto be amarketthatprovidedstaples forthe communityand supportedlocal producers. “Wewantpeopletocomeand gettheir weekly

staples—theirbread,eggs, veggies. Especially with theway supermarketpriceshavegone, thereare some things that arecomparablenow wherebefore, thefarmers market wasseenas highend andluxury,”she said “Stuff that is grownin-season,locally is always goingto be cheaper,”she said.“When they arein season,theyare affordable andbetterfor you, there’slesstravelassociatedwiththemsoit’s better forthe climate, it’shelping oureconomy within Squamish andour growingregion, and

bringing more moneybacktothe farmers’ market andthe smallbusinesses around us.”

Vergesaidamajor push by themarketoverthe last fewyears andintothe future wastoeducate locals—bothnew andold—thatthe SeatoSky Corridor produces alot of food righthere, that localfoodcould be cheaperthanproduce in larger supermarkets,and that themarket provided access to theproducers themselves To that,the localmarkethosts farmers, meat producers, beekeepers,bakersand more.

Thedatafrom thestudy also foundthatthe clienteleofthe Squamish market is very local—only 16%ofattendees identified themselves as beingfromoutside theSea to Sky Corridor,while 32%had been coming forover five years.

“Weare really proudthatlocalssupport us and have changedand adaptedwithusthrough COVIDtimes,” said Verge.

Supporthas been growingoverthe years; 2024 is the21styearofthe Squamish Farmers’ Market, andVerge said that it wasbookedout with vendorsmoreand more,withanexpansion in operatingdates from mid-ApriltoDecember, to February to December—increasingto43 weekends throughthe year.

“Post COVIDwewereseeingour market selloutfor theobvious months—Juneto August—but nowthisyearwe’ve sold outall of ourdates from Maytothanksgivingweekend Thedemandhas really steppedup.”

Lookingahead beyond 2024,Verge said that themarketwas popularinits currentdowntown location,sotheywerehopingtoleanintothat whilecontinuingtoworkonencouraging local farmersand producerstobevendors while maintainingavariedrotationofvendorseach week to keep locals engaged.

From April6toDec.14the Farmers’ Market will be at Junction Park on ClevelandAvenue andVictoriaStreetevery Saturday.

PHOTOBYANDREWHUGHES/THESQUAMISHCHIEF

TheSquamishFarmers’ Market on Saturday,March 30.Astudy says themarketcontributes millions to thelocal economy.

BCER ISSUES DISCHARGE PERMIT TO FORTISBC FOR PIPELINE PROJECT

In relation to Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre Pipeline project, permit allows several effluent discharge areas at BC Rail and Woodfibre sites

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

The BC Energy Regulator (BCER) has issued a permit allowing FortisBC to discharge effluent into the environment for the Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre Pipeline project.

A permit issued by the BCER on March 25, 2024, authorizes FortisBC to discharge treated wastewater at the BC Rail and Woodfibre sites, the two sides of the natural gas pipeline tunnelling below the Squamish Estuary.

The permit approves three discharge points: two at the BC Rail site and one at the Woodfibre site. Each discharge site authorizes several types of activities and includes daily maximums, which FortisBC will have to measure and record

Discharge that will be released into a storm sewer at the BC Rail site includes “contact water from precipitation, groundwater and water generated during the construction process including drilling, grouting and tunnel boring.”

Other discharge at the BC Rail site

includes “non-treated water obtained for the purposes of conducting the hydrostatic pipeline test.”

On the Woodfibre LNG site, the discharge that will go into East Creek includes “contact water from precipitation, runoff, groundwater inflow within the bedrock tunnel and tunnel boring machine industrial water, including water for drilling, probing and cleaning equipment, and precipitation and runoff from the potential acid-generating rock temporary storage.”

The state of the water that is discharged has to comply with provincial guidelines.

“The effluent discharged from the wastewater treatment system at the point of compliance, shall not exceed the applicable British Columbia Approved and Working Water Quality Guidelines for Freshwater and Marine Aquatic Life, as published by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. Additionally, the effluent shall be free of other contaminants in concentrations that may have an adverse effect on the receiving environment,” reads the permit for all of the

discharge sites.

“The effluent shall not be discharged in a manner or quantity that impairs the proper ecological function or otherwise causes excessive erosion of the receiving environment into which the discharge of water is conveyed.”

The permit requires FortisBC to take several measurements, including before, during, and after discharge. The permit notes that discharge must be immediately stopped if it exceeds daily maximums or has perceived adverse environmental effects.

FortisBC will also be required to submit weekly reports to the BCER about the sampling and monitoring program, though the frequency of these reports may decrease if the company shows a history of compliance and gets written notice from the BCER Moreover, a copy of the reports will be supplied to each First Nation, such as Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), in consultation on the project and posted publicly on FortisBC’s website. View the permit in full on the BCER’s website.

PHOTO BY AAFREEN ARORA

TREE POSE: This great blue heron seems to be striking a yoga pose

DISTRICTOFSQUAMISH

Tuesday, April 9at6p.m.

PROPOSEDBYLAW: District of Squamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011 AmendmentBylaw(40480 Tantalus Road) No.2660,2019 Rezoning to facilitate the construction of three six-storeymixed-use buildings,a park and ecological reserve.

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS: To rezone the property highlightedonthe Location MapfromRural Residential 2Zone (RL-2) as follows:

•A portionofthe property will be rezoned to anew “Comprehensive Development98” zone (CD-98), to allowthe construction of three six-storey mixed-usebuildings and accessory parking areas

•A portion of the property will be rezoned to “InstitutionalUse”(P-3) to permit anew parkadjacenttoHighway99.

•A portionofthe property will be rezoned to “Ecological Reserve”(P-4) to secure an area of environmental protection at the east of the site.

HOWTOVIEWTHE PROPOSED REZONING

Allsubmissions will form partofthe public record.

PleasenotethatCouncil maynot receivefurther submissions received from the public orinterested partiesconcerning theBylawdescribed above afterthe conclusion of the Public Hearing

This is the second of twonotices of Public Hearing.

Datedthis 4th dayofApril,2024 at Squamish,British Columbia.

4

WAYS TO PARTICIPATE IN APUBLIC HEARING

Persons who believe thattheir interest in property is affected by the proposed Zoning Amendments will have an opportunity to be heard and to presentwritten submissions forthe Public Hearing.

In Writing

Deliver awritten submission to hearing@squamish.ca, or drop off to the CorporateOfficer at Municipal Hall before4:30 p.m. on the date of the Public Hearing.

Written submissions mayalsobemade during the Hearing by emailing hearing@squamish.ca.Council will not consider submissions received afterthe close of the Public Hearing

If technical issues occurfor aperson during the Hearing,submissions maybemade by emailing hearing@squamish.ca and staffwill distribute to Council and make available on the website. Forthose participating via telephone or electronically,the Districtisencouraging written submissions to be made as well

Electronic Participation

Participate electronically through the use of the WebEx platformby visiting squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings.Instruction for participation in the WebEx virtual Public Hearing can be found at thatsite. Visit squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings in advanceofthe scheduled Public Hearing time for:

•Instructions on howtoset up WebEx and howtolog in;

•How to get on the speakers’list;

•Anopportunitytotest your computer’s connection to the WebEx platform.

By Telephone

Participate by telephone during the Public Hearing by calling 1.604.449.3026 and entering the Access Code 2773 519 7595.

Dial *3 to‘raise your hand’indicating thatyou’d liketospeak. Youwill be placed on aspeakers’list and alertedwhen it is your turntospeak.You willhear amessage that“your line has been unmuted”when it is your turn to speak

Prior to the meeting,please visit squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings fordetailed instructions.

CapacityinCouncil Chambers is limited and so participation electronically via WebEx,orbytelephoneisencouraged.

Watchthe meeting without speaking

If youdonot wish to participate but would like to watch the meeting and hear the submissions,you can do so by watching the meeting at squamish.ca/live-meetings.

NEWS BRIEF

FIRST ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT OF CAPU SQUAMISH

The Squamish campus of Capilano University, which will open this fall on the former Quest University site, has its first associate vice president.

The university announced on March 28 that Brian Storey will officially be in the position on May 6.

He will be responsible for the launch, growth and management of the CapU Squamish campus, a news release states

Storey worked for 22 years at Douglas College, which is based in New Westminster. He most recently served as director of global engagement and international student services

“Under his leadership, the division translated strong commitment to reconciliation and community collaboration into action, leading the development of the Indigenous Global Learning Collective and mobilizing over $1 million in external funding to advance equity, diversity and inclusion in student mobility,” the release states.

In addition to a long career in postsecondary education, Storey also represented Canada in sailing at the 1996 Summer Olympics

“Brian brings over two decades of distinguished leadership experience in the post-secondary sector His expertise in collaborating with communities he serves will help in his new role as he works to support

learners and employees to actualize their passion and potential,” said CapU’s Laureen Styles, vice president, academic and provost.

“Brian’s innovative and inclusive vision will shape a distinct university experience at CapU Squamish and will be essential in bringing relevant programming and academics that contribute to the Sea to Sky region’s health, economic and cultural well being.”

CapU is accepting applications now for the new campus and anticipates acceptance of approximately 120 students by September.

Recently, the school held an open house at the Squamish Adventure Centre, which about 100 locals attended to learn more about what will be offered.

The following programs are planned for Squamish:

• Adult Basic Education - General Upgrading

• Associate of Arts Degree (curated select courses, including those focused on the environment and sustainability)

• Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Interdisciplinary Studies

• Bachelor of Early Childhood Care and Education Degree

• Early Childhood Care and Education Diploma

• Tourism Management Co-operative Education Diploma

The University is also in ongoing conversations with Indigenous communities related to programming options specific to Indigenous learners, according to the release.

NOTICE OF BYLAWREADINGS FOR ZONING AMENDMENT

District of SquamishZoningBylaw 2200,2011Amendment Bylaw(38108Cleveland Ave) No.3027, 2023

AFFECTEDLANDS: 38108 ClevelandAvenue,Squamish BC

PROPOSED BYLAWAMENDMENT: Thepurpose of the proposed Bylawisto rezone theproperty from Gasoline ServiceStation (C-2)toComprehensive DevelopmentZoneNo. 112 (CD-112) to develop afive-storeymixed use buildingwhich includes 23 residentialrentalunits andapproximately 684 squaremetersofcommercialspace.

BYLAW READINGS: Consideration of first,secondand thirdreadingsofthe proposedBylaw will be at theRegular MeetingofCouncil on April 16,2024at 6p.m. in Council Chambers at Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish BC. No public hearingwill be heldfor this application.

LOCATION MAP:

NO PUBLICHEARING: In accordance with thenew Provincial housing legislation, Section464(3)ofthe LocalGovernment Act,local governmentsare now prohibited from holdingpublichearingsrelated to rezoning applications fordevelopmentsthatare primarily residential andare consistent with the localgovernment’sOfficialCommunity Plan (OCP).Thisproposal meetsthose requirements.

HOWTOVIEWTHE PROPOSED REZONING

Acopyofthe proposedbylaw andrelated informationthathas been or may be considered by Council maybeinspectedonline or at MunicipalHall.

•Onlineat: squamish.ca/showcase

•37955 Second Avenue,Squamish,BritishColumbia, from April 4toApril 16,2024 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday,excluding statutoryholidays.

Enquiries regarding theproposed amendment bylaw maybemadetothe Planning Departmentat604.815.5002orbyemail to planning@squamish.ca

This is thefirst of twonotices of bylawreadings.

Datedthis 4th dayofApril 2024 at Squamish,BritishColumbia.

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF ‘HOPPY’ KIDS: Hundreds gathered at Stan Clarke Park on March 30 for the Easter event put on by the Downtown Squamish BIA and partners.

TRIBUNAL SENDS FORTISBC PIPELINE PERMIT BACK TO REGULATOR

Permit goes back to the BC Energy Regulator so Squamish resident can submit concerns about the pipeline project that crosses her property underground

approving the permit.

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

B.C.’s Energy Resource Appeal Tribunal has sent a FortisBC’s permit back to the BC Energy Regulator, so that a Squamish resident can submit feedback

In a tribunal decision published on March 15, the panel chair of the tribunal, Jeff Hand, wrote that a recent FortisBC permit for the Eagle Mountain - Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project needed to be rescinded to the BC Energy Regulator until a local resident, Linnea Voss, has the opportunity to submit concerns

Part of the project’s addition of a natural gas pipeline, and subsequent decommissioning of sections of pipeline, are located underground on Voss’s property off of Finch Drive. “In this appeal, [Voss] was never given the opportunity to make her objections known. As such, it cannot be said that those concerns were considered at all, let alone whether they were given due regard,” wrote Hand in the decision

The main issue in question was whether or not FortisBC provided notice of these permits, allowing Voss to state her concerns before the BC Energy Regulator (BCER) considered

The decision notes that Voss receives mail at a PO Box since mail is not delivered to the property, yet Voss said she did not receive notice of the permit. On the other hand, FortisBC said it was entitled to serve notice via the PO Box since it is the address on file and it is where Voss receives mail, plus Voss has received communication via the PO Box in the past, and it could not physically mail notice to the property

The BCER noted that once Voss was seemingly served, there was no obligation to use another method of service. Additionally, the BCER said Voss has no right to veto the activity but only the right to voice concerns and that the BCER considered the views of several experts about the permit applications and they found no issues.

Hand did not agree with the arguments posed by FortisBC or the BCER “FortisBC’s position suggests they had no choice but to mail the notification to the PO Box. This ignores the other provisions of the regulation that would have permitted service by other means, such as leaving a copy with the appellant [Voss],” said Hand. “The BCER submits that FortisBC was not obligated to use other means of service, having already affected proper service. This argument

misses the point. Proper service under the ordinary mail process, as authorized by the regulation, was not made While FortisBC was not obligated to use the specific method of service of mailing the notification to the appellant, it was obligated to use a method of service authorized by the regulation It did not do so.”

On previous deliveries of notice to the PO Box, Hand continued, “Any evidence on this point is immaterial, as any previously successful delivery by a method not permitted under the regulation does not alter the obligation on FortisBC to comply for this notification.”

Finally, Hand wrote the BCER argument that they considered the scrutiny of experts did not help their case in having the appeal dismissed.

“Doing so would, in effect, be saying that even though the appellant did not submit concerns, I should nonetheless find that the permits were properly issued without knowing what those concerns might be. This would make the required consultation process meaningless.”

Previous to the above appeal, Voss submitted a stay application, or a stop or hold on a legal proceeding about a FortisBC permit It was denied in 2022

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Part of the project’s addition of a natural gas pipeline, and subsequent decommissioning of sections of pipeline, are located underground on Voss’s property off of Finch Drive.

ARECORD NUMBER OF LOCALGROUPSSOUGHT 2023 SQUAMISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION GRANTS

Foundation funded about$98,000 in grants to 28 Squamish groups andprograms

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Arecord number of localgroupssought communityenhancement grant opportunitiesin2023, accordingto the Squamish CommunityFoundation

At theMarch 26 committeeofthe whole councilmeeting,the executivedirectorofthe foundation,Karen Clarke,presented an annual update to councilmembers aboutdistributed communityenhancement grants

In2023, thefoundationdispersed nearly $98,000 to 28 groups.Yet,itreceived32grant applications with monetary requests totalling over $266,000.

“Soovertwo timesthe amount wasrequested thanwhatwewereabletogrant out,”said Clarke.

Clarke said the32applications were anew record forthe foundation forthisstreamof grants. Thefoundationalsohelps with other grantingprograms, such as theNeighbourhood Small Grants

“It’squite somethingtosee it laid outinthis way andthe impact that it hasonthe community,” said MayorArmandHurford.“It is just also just scratching thesurface of theimpact

Baha’i Faith

The Earth –Our Home

In 2023, thefoundationdispersed nearly $98,000to28groups. Yet, it received 32 grantapplications with monetary requests totallingover$266,000.

of theseprograms.”

Each of thesuccessfulapplicantsreceivedat least$1,000.

Themostfunding went to SeatoSky Community Services,which received $12,000for three distinct programs.Itwas followed by the Squamish Food Bank Society, whichreceived $11,500,and PearlSpace,which received $10,000

The next highestamounts,receiving between $4,000to $4,500,wereSquamishCommunity

As Earth Dayapproachesand theworld reflectsonthe deepening climateand environmental crisis ravagingthe veryearth that sustains us,weare facedwiththe realitythatour destiny and thehealth of theplanetare irrevocably intertwined

Baha’iteachings provide us with bothanadmonitiontorecognize this connectionand a promiseofa bright future if we pursue apathofharmony

Bahá’u’lláhwrote:“Everyman of discernment,while walkingupon theearth,feeleth indeed abashed, inasmuch as he is fully awarethatthe thingwhich is thesourceofhis prosperity, his wealth,his might,his exaltation,his advancement andpower is,asordainedbyGod,the veryearth whichistrodden beneaththe feet ofall men. Therecan be no doubt that whoever is cognizant of this truth,iscleansed and sanctified from allpride, arrogance, and vainglory.” Therefore “itbehoovethyou to abandonvainglory whichcausethalienationand to set your hearts on whateverwill ensureharmony.”

While we considerevery practicaland scientific approach to healingthe planet,wemust also considerthatthe coreofthe dilemma is aspiritual one. Will we continue to be drivenby individualgreed and nationalprotectionism or by mutual cooperationdistinguishedbythe realizationthatweare one humanfamilyand theearth is but one country

“The Lordofall mankind hathfashioned this humanrealm to be aGardenofEden,anearthly paradise. If,asitmust, it findeththe waytoharmony and peace,toloveand mutual trust, it will becomea trueabode of bliss, aplace ofmanifoldblessings andunending delights. Therein shall be revealedthe excellenceofhumankind,therein shallthe rays of theSun of Truthshine forth on everyhand.”– ‘Abdu’l-Baha

www.squamishbahais.org

ChristmasCare, Howe SoundCurling Club, Squamish HelpingHands Society, Squamish Minor Hockey Association,Squamish Search andRescue, andWhistlerAdaptiveSports’ Squamish program.

Theremaining 17 organizationssplit therestof thefunding

Clarke notedafew differentaspects of the programfor theDistrictofSquamish andthe foundation to work outgoing forward, including

establishing whetherorganizations cansubmit more than onegrant,clarifyingeligibility for grants from organizationswithpermissivetax exemptions,and what to do with District facility rental requests

Numerous councilmembers thankedClarke andthe foundation fordetermining howto allocate thefunds.Additionally, afew notedthat an increase in theprogram’s budget mayneed future consideration

“WhenI seethe impact these,relatively speaking,small infusionsintothe community have—through Squamish Arts andthe CommunityFoundation—it does make me wonder if we need to thinkabout theamount we’reinvesting in this program,”saidCoun. ChrisPettingill. “We’re in,and goinginto, some yearsoftough budgets. But, in this case,maybe it’s areasontodomorehereratherthanless.”

Coun.Jenna Stoner echoed Pettingill in her comments as well.

“[I] definitely hear loud andclear that theasks aretwo-and-a-halftimes what we actually have on thetable andI thinkthat’sthe biggestone that we want to tryand tackle goingforward,” shesaid.

View allthe recipients throughthe District of Squamish report availablethrough theDistrict’s website.

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EDITOR

JENNIFERTHUNCHER jthuncher@ squamishchief.com follow @thuncher

REPORTER ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@ squamishchief.com

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CIRCULATION

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WATERWORLD

While locals rightfully complain of being moreand more squeezed outoffavourite fair weatherspots (doesanyoneheregoto Brohm, theStawamusChief,orCat Lake or outtothe Ashluonlongweekendsanymore?)Átl’ka7tsem/ Howe Soundremains arelativelyquiet oasisthatis under-explored.

Andthe42 kilometres-long(26 miles) fjordcan be paddledyear-round.

Recently thenon-profitBC Marine Trails Network announcedithad installedfivenew tent platformsin Howe Soundalong theSea to SkyMarineTrail

TheThornborough ChannelRecreationSite—on thewestshore of Howe Sound, northofGambier Island—has threenew platforms, whilethe Zorro BayRecreationSite—whichisaccessiblefrom PorteauCove—hastwo.

Never heardof theSea to SkyMarineTrail?You likely aren’t alone.

It officially opened in June 2015 andisthe result of thetirelessefforts of membersofBCMarineTrails andthe SeaKayak AssociationofBC. It connects HorseshoeBay to Squamish andhas aseriesof campingspots that canbe reached by canoeor kayakonHoweSound.

Thereare sixrecreationsites andthree provincial campsiteson theSea-to-SkyTrail.

Theregionlooks very differentbywater.

Watchawidevariety of birdsfly overhead or dive into thewater alongthe shore, meet sealions and seals, andmaybe even an orca or dolphinwhile you paddle.

ThereareavarietyoffishinHoweSound, including steelheadtrout,cutthroat trout, coho, chinooksalmon, and chum salmon.

Youmay spot deer,cougars,black bears,bobcats, coyotesand more alongthe shores.

Afteraninspiring paddle,let thesound of the waveslullyou to arestful sleepatthe campsite.

Thenextday,takeadip andexplore thecoastline before headingtothenextspotcampsite. Youare guaranteedtosee fewerpeopleoverdaysthanat most spotsonland, even in thebusiest part of the summer season

Of course,thisisn’t arisk-free activity.Don’t attempttonavigatethe trail unless youare an experiencedpaddler,or have takenacourse, know theconditionsofthe soundand areuberprepared

Respectthelandby leavingnotrace

GOODNEWS

EDITOR’S NOTEBOOK

JENNIFER THUNCHER

Admittedly, thenatureofnewsisitoften highlights thedarkersideoflife. Afterall,the medicalortransportation system workingsmoothlyisn’t astory;someone in a hallwayfor hours, or aclosedhighway is However, Iwould like to highlightfourpositives that caught my eyethisweek.

Like most whale-loving folksinSquamish,I have been gluedtothe news aboutBrave Little Hunter, theorcacalfinalagoonnearZeballos, offof VancouverIsland. Whilethe storyistragic—the mother whaledied, andthe calf is running outof time to enteropenwaters—it is also astory of how humans cancometogether, despitedifferences Fisheriesand Oceans Canada (DFO)officials and membersofthe Ehattesaht andNuchatlahtFirst Nationshavebeenworkingtogethertohelpthe calf.

common goal—supportingarts, cultureand community.

Seeing Trickster’sHideout,our downtown funky culturehub andthe BAGworktogetherisso heartwarming.

(Now,itisupto therestofusto continue to attend theirofferings in forcesotheycan thrive,not just survive!)

Speaking of showingupwithforce,local TsawaysiaSpukwus(AliceGuss) is apositiveperson that does Squamish proud.

Shedidn’tdo anything specific this week to make headlines, butifyou follow heronsocialmedia,or in real life,you know this womanisacommunity andsocietalbridgebuilder.She attendsalmost everyimportant Squamish event, sharing, singing, drumming,and bringing people together every time.She shares herknowledge of culture, tradition andnaturewithall whoare willingtolearn.She is an artist,leader, and, most of all, teacher.

writtenconsent of thepublisher.

Connect with theSquamishPaddlingClubfor helpfullocal information. Thereare also Squamish companiesthatprovide kayaks,canoesand supplies to buy; their staffcanoffer lots of advice,too.And thereare companiesthatprovide locallessons and rentals. (Support localbecause it is theright thingto do,but also becauselocal knowsbestwhatyou need to know before yougopaddlingonHoweSound.)

Letthelanddwellershavesomeofthose popular spots, thereare plenty of areasfor therestofusto roam this summer on thewater.

It is likely that many individualsinvolvedinthis effortvotedifferently,havedifferent religiousbeliefs orhaveother opposing views, buttheyall care about marine life andhavefound away to work together in such apowerfulway it brings tearstomy eyes.

Regardless of theoutcome,thiscollaboration shouldn’tbeoverlooked.

Next is thestory of therenovationofthe newly reopened BrackendaleArt Gallery. Again, it is astory of people workingtogetherfor a

Shemakes Squamish better andmorehopeful Finally, hiking Jack’s Trailthislongweekend,it wastouchingand inspiringtosee theway mountain bikers,dog walkers, hikers,and runners coexistedonwhatisanincreasinglybusystretch of ourtrail network.

Many riders said thankyou when we stoodaside forthemtopass, or movedso we couldpass. Even in SkyRidge whilewalking to thetrailhead,gathered bikers apologized fortakinguptoo much spaceon thesidewalkaswepassed(they hadn’t).

That is Squamish at itsbest.

There’slotstobedepressed aboutinour communityand beyond,to be sure,but thereis much to celebrateand be grateful for, too.

THE SQUAMISH CHIEF NEWSPAPER, PRINTED EVERYTHURSDAY BY GLACIER MEDIA INC.

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)

KEEP KIDS SAFE FROM THE DANGERS OF HOT CARS

GUEST COLUMN

JOHN DUCKER

That sudden blast of great weather had me taking off my jacket for the first time this year while driving around town last week It also reminded me that the inside of a vehicle can warm up way faster than the environment outside.

So it’s probably time already to talk about the need to protect our kids from the problems of the extreme heat that builds up inside your car during our warmer months. Protecting pets is also very important, but there will no doubt be several reports about furry friends being left inside overheated vehicles in the months to come—as there always is. Today is about kids.

North America-wide, about 38 children die each year from being left in an overheated vehicle. They are tragic circumstances beyond imagination. Why does it happen?

Contrary to popular opinion, it is not about ignorant, unmindful or negligent parents or caregivers

More often it is about real life—the things all of us must contend with in our complicated and busy world today.

In-car heat deaths happen for three main reasons.

The first one is what psychologists call “Forgotten Child Syndrome.” This

IT’S SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH

PearlSpace (formerly the Howe Sound Women’s Centre) invites individuals and communities across our region to join us in recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) this month of April.

happens because the parent is mentally overwhelmed while multitasking—doing the shopping, running errands or rushing to appointments

It can also happen because of a change of routine. One parent usually does drop-offs but can’t one day, so the other parent unfamiliar with that routine takes over and forgets, busy with their own priorities.

Though I’ve never forgotten a child, I’ve been guilty of leaving coffee cups, thermoses, sports equipment and even a briefcase on the roof of the car, then driving off during similar moments.

Another scenario happens when children manage to get into an unlocked car without an adult noticing and get inadvertently locked in Finally, there’s the one where children manage to get inside a vehicle all on their own and then are unable to get out.

During hot days, when the outside temperature is around 25 to 30 C, the inside of a car can easily reach 55 C in 12 to 15 minutes. As a comparison, during the heat dome of June 2021 here on the lower Island, the temperature around our own place was 40 C, which was unbearable. That same heat dome killed 619 people in B.C. according to the coroner’s service— none of whom, to my knowledge, were trapped inside vehicles.

The easiest way to prevent these tragedies from happening is to never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, regardless of the temperature, bearing in mind that an older child is not a responsible caregiver

Beyond that, there are three methods to ensure our kids are safe from an overheated car - the ACT principle.

“A” means avoid heatstroke from the start. Scan the inside of your car before leaving it Make sure you have your keys in hand and lock up, even if the vehicle is in your garage or driveway

“C” is for creating reminders that your child is with you It can be leaving a toy on your front seat or putting something important like a wallet, purse or shopping list in the back seat near the tiny passenger, forcing you to look back there upon arrival.

“T” means to take action if you see something. This applies whether or not your own child is involved. If you see a child inside a hot vehicle, first see if they are responsive If they are not, seek help right away

If there is no caregiver around, call 911 immediately. If the child is in obvious distress, go to the window furthest away from where they are sitting and smash it out. This is a “Good Samaritan” action where you cannot be charged with anything as you have no criminal intent. Cool the child down with a spray or cloth until help arrives.

The message here is that extreme heat kills—quickly. Developing a hot-weather mindset as well as a standard routine during summer driving are the best ways to protect our precious little ones during summer heat

Glove Box: I’ve recently noticed a better idea about helping pedestrians cross at

HOT CAR: Continued on 14

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

If you haven’t been out on Howe Sound, why not?

Have your say at squamishchief.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

Do you support the new provincial rules around short-term rentals?

NO 57%

YES 27%

I AM NOT SURE 12%

MOST READ STORY

Extensive search suspended for woman swept way in Mamquam River, say Squamish RCMP

TOP TIKTOK OF THE WEEK

Our communities as a whole, along with sexual violence survivors, can take heart to have the widespread political support of our local governments, with the District of Squamish, the Resort Municipality of Whistler, and the Village of Pemberton all proclaiming April to be Sexual Assault Awareness Month for a third year in a row.

advocacy began in earnest to establish a comprehensive continuum of locally-based forensic services and follow-up care

SAAM started in the U.S. as an education and prevention campaign over 20 years ago, and is now a unifying action across North America under the symbolic colour of teal. It was also almost 20 years ago in the corridor, that formal cross-sectorial

After assorted successes, PearlSpace was awarded contracts by the Government of BC last July to provide 24/7 mobile and confidential supports to survivors of sexual assault of all genders, aged 13 and older,

LETTERS: Continued on 14

This week, Andrew Hughes tried to catch up with the Easter bunny for an interview. He struck out, but found some very happy kids celebrating the occasion at Stan Clarke Park

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

HOT CAR: Continued from 13

intersections. Saanich has a system at some of their traffic-light intersections where the pedestrian “walk” signal comes on several seconds before the green light for vehicle traffic. That’s a very effective idea. Pedestrians move out into the crosswalk first, giving drivers a much better chance to see them during a right or

left turn because vehicles are held back for a few seconds by the red light. It also helps to keep the crosswalk clear from those pedestrians who always go by the countdown signal—ignoring the actual “Don’t Walk” sign right beside it. More intersections around here should operate that way.

John Ducker is a former Victoria Police deputy chief and road safety expert

FOREST OPERATIONS MAP(FOM) NOTICEOFPUBLICREVIEW& COMMENT

Black MountLogging Inc. holder of FSP #962,gives noticeand inviteswrittencomment on proposedblocksand/or roadsinFOM:1215. Review and comment period begins April 5, 2024. and ends May 5, 2024. The FOM will be available for reviewand comment at 2021 Paco Road, Squamish, BC V8B 0J6 from 9am- 4pm. To ensure arepresentative is available to discuss the FOM any interestedparties should call (604)-898-5415oremail in advance to arrange an appointment

The FOMisalsoavailable onlinefor reviewand comment by visitinghttps://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects.Inaddition, comments canbemailedorsubmittedbyhand to the above address or emailed to drollins@bmlogging.com.

The FOMcan be relied uponbythe FSPholderfor the purpose of a cutting permitorroadpermitapplication for three years. The FOM included in this noticeisvaliduntilApril 5, 2027

LETTERS: Continued from 13 from Furry Creek to Lillooet, in collaboration with the Southern Stl’atl’imx Health Society and its Útszan ti Smáwala (Restoring The Life Force and Renewing The Spirit) Sexual Assault Response Program.

Besides locally celebrating expanded access to community-based victim supports, PearlSpace is using SAAM to highlight important, new B.C. legislation passed into force in January called the Intimate Images Protection Act (IIPA), which creates fast-tracked pathways to justice through the Intimate Images Protection Service and the Civil Resolution Tribunal when intimate images are distributed without consent. The legislation covers nude and near-nude images, videos, livestreams and digitally altered images, including videos known as deep fakes and will even provide recourse for minors to pursue legal action to stop the distribution of their private images

Parents can also make applications to remove intimate images from the internet on behalf of their youth through the Intimate Images Protection Service.

Did you know male youth are more likely to experience online sexploitation as a form of financial blackmail?

If parents and caregivers want to learn more about IIPA and strengthen youth protections in our communities with respect to sexual violence, PearlSpace, with the support of School District

48 (Sea to Sky), has developed a de-stigmatization presentation that will be offered in Pemberton (April 15th), Squamish (April 17th) and Whistler (April 18th).

At the same time, we are pleased to draw attention to a special SAAM fundraiser launched by Útszan ti Smáwala to enhance sexual assault awareness programming for youth, in honour of St’at’imc youth Phoenix Lutwick, who created the #consentisrespect initiative using teal-coloured artwork by Dr. Peter Eppinga, which are now emblazoned onto black hoodies available at PearlSpace Drop-Ins in Squamish and Whistler.

It is my privilege, on behalf of our eight-member PearlSpace Sexual Assault Services team and participants in the Sea to Sky Sexual Assault Response Committee, to invite community groups, public spaces and businesses alike to order a string of teal-coloured lights for your windows or distribute teal-coloured ribbons to help us grow the local conversation and build community protective factors on the overly stigmatized subject of sexual violence We can all celebrate that social and systemic progress is achievable

To Access Sexual Assault Services in the Sea to Sky region:

PearlSpace (604) 389-9168 or click our Chat Widget on www.pearlspace.ca

Útszan ti Smáwala (604) 894-0151

Shannon Cooley Co-ordinator of Sexual Assault Services

PearlSpace

foodbeat

NeweateryTheBuvetteprovides French-inspiredcuisine

Two co-owners bring a little bit of their Montreal roots to downtown

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Although an eatery like The Buvette could be found on any given street in Montreal, the do-it-all restaurant adds another diverse eating option in Squamish Located on Vancouver Street in downtown Squa Buvette has a simp aesthetic with café tables and chairs, red-checkered ba and even an area to lounge. Colourful and distinctive art adorns the spacious south-facing restaurant with enormous windows viewing the Stawamus Chief. Having opened at of October in 2023 more-or-less got its start because the two co-owners, Constance Ferland and Sara Cleroux, longed for a taste of their Montreal roots.

ughes@squa sh f.com you can a e

For example, you can grab a ee or a sandwich roughout the day, then you can return at night for a glass of natural wine with a friend, as the menu shifts into evening shareable plates with French bistro-inspired seasonal offerings.

Ferland and Cleroux said some of the best sellers so far have included their feta dip, which combines whipped feta, walnuts and honey served with a fresh baguette They also have a pear and radicchio salad and a kale Caesar sa made with a vegan tahini sauce.

baguette They also have and radicchio salad and a kale Caesar salad

sh The simple chairs, a bar opened the of more-or-less got its start because are unique so it’s opular,”

“This concept is really popular in Montreal,” said Ferland. “We’re a coffee shop, wine bar, lunch spot It’s really a mix of things.”

Ferland explained it’s the type of place where you can go any time of the day.

Providing B.C. natural wine available was one of main goals from the start, Ferland added, but the sandwiches have been really popular among customers. The sandwiches are simple but packed to the brim.

“[We] really wanted to provide fresh ingredients, big sandos with a lot of stuff at a good ice. The sandos are ty unique and so far it’s pular,” she said There is a meat, vegetarian or vegan option to suit any dietary needs as well

As for the evening menu, Cleroux said it’s meant to be ever-changing so customers can always find something new.

“It’s never the same experience,” she said The plates are shareable, said Cleroux, and customers are meant to grab a few and make it a meal

“[We] really wanted to provide fresh ingredients, big sandos with a lot of stuff at a good price.

… The sandos are pretty unique and so far it’s very popular.”

Another popular item is their take on puttanesca, an Italian savoury sauce, which is also served with fresh bread. And, of course, they have a cheese plate and jambon, a plate of roasted ham.

Ferland said it’s been a whirlwind since the start, but they’ve certainly felt a lot of support from the community and other businesses “Everybody is so welcoming,” she said. “Between businesses, everybody’s super supportive.”

She said it’s also been really special connecting with the French speaking community in Squamish, many of whom have been enthusiastic about the opening. While Ferland and Cleroux said they are still getting their bearings, as they are the only two employees at the moment, they said they are looking forward to the summer season,

hosting community events and collaborating with other businesses

“The community is very important for us, so we just want to collaborate with some shops,” said Ferland.

Stop in at The Buvette or go to their Instagram page to learn more

The Food Beat is a new series from The Squamish Chief newsroom focusing on local restaurants, cafés and eateries that are newly opened or have something newsworthy about them If you think your business fits that bill and would like to be considered for this series, reach out to news@squamishchief.com

MEET GERALD COTE:FROMBEEKEEPER TO DANCEINSTRUCTORTO LOCAL FRESHIIFRANCHISE OWNER

Localreflectsonhis ‘gowiththe flow’pathand hopes forhis newly opened downtown location

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief.com

The journeyfromNorthernAlbertan beekeepertoworld champion dancer anddance instructor to Squamish Freshiifranchise owneris notaconventional life path,but Gerald Cote chalks it up to kismet

Cote’s dadwas abeekeeper,and he owned part of thefamilyfarm.

“I didn’t really thinkthatIwas goingtodo muchelse,”Coterecalledlastweekathis new SecondAvenueFreshii location

“And then Imet agirl; Iwenttothe city and decidedtoexplore theworld,inasense.That wasshort-lived; shedumpedme,”Cote added, with alaugh.

Sincehewas alreadyinEdmonton, thethen 20-something Cote decidedtotakebusiness management courses at college.

And then,thoughhedidn’thaveany dance trainingatthe time,hesaw ajob fora dance instructor that included training.

“I went at it andfellinlovewithit. …They hiredme, andI slowly startedmycareer,”he said humbly.

In fact,hewentontowin worldchampionshipsindance.Healsowentontoco-owna dancestudioinEdmontonand laterone in Calgary, whichbecameone of thebiggest dancestudios in Canada at thetimewithover 600students.

“Itwas weird. Ijustkindoffollowedmy passion,”hesaidofhis life’s trajectory

He said thestudiobecamealmosttoo big, especially afterheand hiswifeRobin started having kids

It wasall-consuming,headded.

As luck—orsynchronicity—would have it, just as thecoupledecided it mightbetimeto move on from thestudio, abusinessbroker came forward andasked if they were thinking of selling.

“Oh, this is really strange,”Coterecalled thinking.“We just hadthatthought yesterday.”

Thecouplewanteda more smallmountain town lifestylefor theiryoung family,sothey decidedtomovetoSquamish, whereRobin’s family wasbased.

They made themovein2017.

Before they left,Cotehad called theFreshii powers that be andasked aboutfranchises.

BUSINESS: Continued from 16

His family ate at Freshii often, so it seemed like a natural fit, Cote told The Squamish Chief.

(For the uninitiated, Freshii offers healthier quick meal options such as bowls, burritos, salads, wraps, soups, smoothies and juices.)

The official with Freshii cut Cote short on the phone, saying that there was a long waitlist for franchises in Calgary.

Cote corrected the man that it was Squamish he was asking about having a franchise, not Calgary.

“He kind of got excited,” Cote recalled It turned out there was a location here being developed, but things had fallen through with the potential owner.

After being offered the location on Glenalder Place, Cote took five minutes to talk with Robin—and then they were in.

“My wife and I, in essence, we’re spiritual. We’re big on synchronicities and coincidences We said, ‘Let’s just roll with it; see what happens,’ and we just went with the flow. And it all worked out,” he said.

Then last year, the parent company offered some incentives to some of the successful operators, like Cote, to open a second location. Again, they went for it, opening the 38116 Second Avenue location in late December.

Cote acknowledges things have been slower than he forecasted at the new location, likely due to the impact of inflation on local pocketbooks, but he is hopeful the coming, warmer months will be better.

“It’s moving forward. It’s trending upward,” he said

Both locations are also going back to offering breakfast options, which were paused during the pandemic, and teas and coffee from the local Sea to Sky Coffee Company.

CONTINUING THE DANCE

While Cote wasn’t sure he would continue teaching in Squamish, about six months after moving here, he noted that the type of

DARTS & DAFFODILS

A ‘TRENTA’ SIZE CUP OF DAFFODILS to the staff at the Squamish Station Starbucks. They are all pretty amazing! While being very friendly, they still manage to have a high degree of professionalism.

Not to mention that they play awesome tunes. Walking in there is always a highlight of my morning. Thanks, baristas! ~Grande Americano

A SHOPPING CART FULL OF DAFFODILS to the lovely staff member at London Drugs on Saturday who helped me find heat protection spray for my

We said, ‘Let’s just roll with it; see what happens,’ and we just went with the flow. And it all worked out.

GERALD COTE

ballroom dance classes he offered were not available.

Locals encouraged him to go back to teaching.

Robin is also a professional dancer and instructor, so soon, their shared local GNR Dance school was born.

“I kind of made a pact with myself that OK, we’re going to do an open house free beginner day, at The 55 Activity Centre,” he recalled. If there wasn’t much interest, he would not offer classes.

Over 180 people showed up.

In another example of kismet, Cote ended up helping a student with her bees.

“I kind of turned out to be a little bit of a consultant,” he said with a laugh. “It has been really fun.”

These days, Cote balances about 28 hours of dance instruction per week while overseeing the franchises

“The nice thing about it is it is really balanced,” Cote said

“The Freshiis are really busy from May to September, and the dancing is really busy from September to May. It’s a perfect fit. And because I have a great staff—we create an environment where we take care of them so that’s kind of a win-win for everyone.”

hair A simple thing, but this worker even called her daughter to find out what kind she used and then helped me find that I told her it was OK and not to spend the time on just me, but she said she liked to help How sweet is that!

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.

WoodfibreLNG will housenon-local workersona floatel, reducingpressure on local housing in Squamish.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MALKEET TONY MALHI CELEBRATING YOUTH AND CULTURE: The Squamish Sikh Society celebrated its Gurmat Camp on Saturday, March 23, at the Sikh Temple There was food to share, prayer, dancing and ceremony

‘THE WEDDING SINGER: THE MUSICAL’ COMES TO EAGLE EYE THEATRE

Experience the high energy, humour and heartwarming moments of this beloved classic brought to life by 18 local performers

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

“I

wanna make you smile whenever you’re sad/Carry you around when your arthritis is bad.”

If you know those lyrics, you are likely a fan of The Wedding Singer, the romantic comedy from 1998.

If you don’t recognize the line, the movie was set in 1985 New Jersey, in all its retro glory.

The plot is simple: a young man and woman are set to marry the wrong people but ultimately find each other.

There is much hilarity and mushy-gushy love along the way.

The Wedding Singer is Act Alive performing arts studio owner Jessica Kelly’s favourite movie, and so she was excited to put on the musical version.

The cast of 18 Squamish performers in TROUPE, Act Alive’s adult theatre group, will take to the Eagle Eye Theatre stage in The Wedding Singer: The Musical on May 2, 3 and 4. Kelly loves the high energy of the story, the humour and the happy ending, she said “It’s one of my top favourite films of all time,” she said

“There’s actually quite a few people in the cast that had a similar feeling.”

TROUPE started last January, and has been working on The Wedding Singer since September. With more women in the group than men,

Kelly said they threw out the idea of gender for the performers so individuals could play a more diverse array of roles.

She said that in musical theatre, there are typically more roles for men than women, but

more female performers than male performers

The lead star-crossed lovers are played by Anna Davies, who is Robbie Hart, and Hannah Shepheard plays Julia Sullivan

Kelly, who is producing, directing and choreographing the musical said she “dies laughing” watching rehearsals

“Breathtaking is a word I would use to describe some of these beautiful songs and heartfelt performances, hilarious monologues, songs [and] dances There’s really something for everybody here,” she said, noting the performance would be suitable for 10-year-olds and up, though there are some swear words and innuendo in parts.

More than anything, Kelly says she has been touched by how TROUPE members have come together and formed a supportive community. She said members watch each other’s kids and have rehearsed even when Kelly took a few days off to care for her infant. (Kelly had a baby in October.)

“They truly give so much, and they care so much,” she said of the cast “It’s really become bigger than anything that I’ve created.”

Tickets for The Wedding Singer: The Musical are $35 online or $38 cash at the door

Purchase tickets or find out more on Act Alive’s website.

PHOTO COURTESY JESSICA KELLY

Jessica Kelly says they decided to throw out the idea of gender when casting the play

BELOVED BRACKENDALE ART GALLERY RELAUNCHES WITH A CREATIVE SPLASH

‘This place is going to be magical’: BAG is revitalizes tradition by merging its strong arts & culture mandate with its heritage

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Everything old is new again.

In terms of its appearance, it is pretty much the same Brackendale Art Gallery (BAG), only fresher and more polished—as if it went on vacation, got some good sleep, got some sun and exercise, ate good food, and is back looking and feeling better than ever

The Brackendale Art Gallery: Cafe and Culture Centre (see, the same name, with a slight rebrand), has reopened.

The refreshed mandate is to become even more of a community, arts and culture hub for Squamish

The first events were held the weekend of March 23, and the calendar for the coming months is loading up quickly.

Trivia nights have started, a workshop is on the schedule, and the Daily Café is now open.

Co-owner Jessica Rigg said there’s a “full breadth of arts programming” too.

On April 4, there will be a free public event, The April Show Opening Reception—the first art show since its reopening.

Jon Rigg, Jessica’s partner, has done much work behind the scenes on the renovations. He says many changes made during the monthslong closure are behind the walls and below the

wood floor, where the 50-something-year-old building was brought up to 2024 building standards.

The co-owners, which also includes Adrian Blachut, and a crew of devoted helpers, have worked tirelessly for several months, navigating construction and red tape hurdles to reach this point.

Now, among a laundry list of other upgrades,

the building has a commercial-grade kitchen, a new accessible washroom, and a modern sound system

There are new gutters, better drainage, new stairways, arches, stone pathways, and railings

HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTED

But the changes have highlighted rather than muted the place’s unique charm, which was born from former owners Dorte and the late Thor Froslev.

Turn a corner, and there is a wooden carving that looks remarkably like Thor, dusted off and put on display.

Artistic metalwork has been uncovered and installed in new railings made of repurposed wood, continuing the former owners’ tradition of upcycling.

The Casting Wall of Faces has been cleaned up, and the famous white unicorn has its full horn once again and has been repainted.

The art gallery upstairs is opened up, using what was once the Froslev’s private living quarters to create a bright, unique space.

The deck upstairs has tables and chairs and a new railing. It displays the unique glass jar wall that was previously seen only by friends invited into the personal space.

Jessica said with a laugh that Blachut finally gets the rooftop deck he always wanted at his former Zephyr Café downtown

The caravan Thor lived in while he was building the place more than five decades ago sits at the back of the east garden, watching over the entire facility

Perhaps someone will be able to convert that caravan into a display for folks to enjoy, Blachut said

There’s still more to do and plans the owners are excited about, including opening up the former chapel for classes and kids’ programming

’GOING TO BE MAGICAL’

The rebuild and relaunch have been no easy task, acknowledges Blachut, but the labour pain phase of birthing the new BAG is mostly behind them now.

“Every time I’ve done this—I have done it a couple of times now—every time at this point, I think that I’m never going to ever do it again ... and then turns into, ‘This place is going to be magical,’” he said.

“We’re excited to show everybody all the hard work, blood, sweat and tears that went into this.”

The owners noted how touching it has been to see the number of people who pulled together to help the facility get to this point, from individuals to builders Blue Water Concepts to suppliers, District staff, and even other local business owners who offered advice and support.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The Casting Wall of Faces has been refreshed. The plan is for there to be a plaque explaining who is on it

With profoundsadnessand love, thefamilyof JAMES

(‘JIM’) (‘JD’)DOUGLAS

announce his passing on March 14, 2024.

Jimwas born to parentsFranand Brian Douglas on September14, 1962. His brother,Dale, wasborn three years later. Together,theygrewupin North Vancouver.Jim graduatedfromWindsor SecondarySchool, whereheplayedbass in severalbandsand fosteredalovefor music. Following graduation, Jimworked atMicrotelPacific Research in the Division of LenkurkElectric,aswellasski patrol on MountSeymour

Jimmoved to Whistler in 1987 and began his career as aparamedic.Itwas therethathemet his true love,Ann Douglas,atthe Whistler Health Care Centre. Despiteleavingher with the bill on their first date to attend an ambulancecall, she graciously grantedhim asecond date.They marriedonJune 9, 1990, at MountPius XParish inNorth Vancouver.

In1991, their firstchild, Matthew, wasborn and shortly after theymoved to Squamish.In 1995, theywelcomed the final addition to their family, adaughter, Nicole

Jim dedicated hislife to the care of others.Heworkedtirelessly for the BC Ambulance Servicefor 32 years, whereheadvocated for accesstomental health supports within emergencyservicesand counselledthosestrugglingwith post-traumatic stress. Throughout his career, Jimhad aremarkable knackfor making aside jobout of his passions– from mountain bikingtowhitewater raft and snowmobile guiding. In the lastdecade,Jim worked with RavenRescueasa swift waterrescueand confinedspace instructor,whichallowedhim to travel to beautiful cornersofthe province and beyond. In2017, Jimbecame afoundingmemberofTEAAM (Technical Evacuation Advance Aero Medical), and once again, dove into anew passion. This time,for providingadvanced medical care viahelicopter in remotesettings outside the scopeofthe BC Ambulance Service.

Despitehis extraordinarycareerinemergencypatient care, anyone who knewJim will knowthat his greatest joywas beingahusband, father, son, brother, brother-in-law,uncle andfriend. In addition to his wife and children, he welcomedSamantha(Matthew’s wife) and Kelvin (Nicole’s fiancé)into the family. In 2022, he wasoverjoyed to become a grandfatherwhen Vivian Grey,daughterofMatthew and Samantha,was born.

Thefamilywishes to express their sincere gratitude to the amazingnursesand doctorsat the SeatoSky Hospice Societyfor their kindness,endlesssupportand care shown to Jim duringhis shortstaythere.

A Celebration of Life will be held at theSquamish FuneralChapelon April27, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers,the family requests that a donation be made tothe Honour HouseSociety at www.honourhouse.ca –anorganization near and dear to Jim’sheart.

April22,1941-March 28,2024

Rosa Razzanopassedawaysurroundedbylovedoneson March28th,2024at SquamishGeneral Hospital. Rosa wasbornApril22nd,1941inCerami, Italytoher parentsVincenzoandMaria Milia.In1962,Rosa leftItaly tojoinherbrotherandsisterin-lawinBritanniaBeach ThisiswhereshemetherhusbandPasquale.Oncemarried, Pasquale andRosabuilt theirforeverhomeinSquamish. Thisiswheretheyraisedtheirchildren,andwhereRosa continuedtoresideforthenext60yearsuntil herfinaldays. Rosa ispredeceasedbyherhusbandof39years,Pasquale SheislovinglyrememberedbyherchildrenPina(Stephen), MikeandEnzo(Pam);grandchildrenColton(Lydia), Toriann,Marcus,Emilio andEvann;great grandchildren BrantleyandAdaline; brotherDominic (Rita)andsister Giuseppina(Orazio).Shewill alsobemissedbycountless nieces,nephewsandfriends

Prayerswill beofferedatSquamishFuneralChapel Thursday,April4th2024at 7:00pm

FuneralService will beheldat St.Joseph’sCatholic Church Friday,April 5th2024at 10:30am.

PROJECT INFORMATION

MEETING Adevelopment application has been submitted to District of Squamish for property located at 37707 Second Avenue, Squamish, B.C.

Please join the owners: Lazo and Zoran Bjelica, Architect: Chris Hunter and Landscape Architect: Julian Pattison at a meeting to discuss the application and proposed mixed use development.

Date: Thursday, April 11th, 2024

Time: 6:30-8:00 pm

Location of the Meeting: Howe Sound Bres Pub and Hostel @ the Firebread Room (Directly to your right as you enter the lobby)

ACasual presentation by the Applicant will begin at: 7pm followed by time for questions and discussion.

The meeting is being held by the Applicant in compliance with District of Squamish policy. The applicant will present details of the application and proposed development, receive input from members of the community and respond to questions. Notices are being distributed to residents within 100mofthe subject property. If you have any questions in regard to this notice please contact the Planning Department, at 604-815-5002 or Chris Hunter the Architect of record at info@hunteroffice.ca and/or bring your questions and comments to the meeting.

This is not aPublic Hearing. Council will receive areport from staff detailing attendance and interest it the proposal and will formally consider the application at alater date. Please visit squamish.ca/show case to view and comment on this application.

Thank you for your consideration and input.

Sincerely,

Chris HunterARCHITECT AIBC

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SCRIBBLE BOX

ARIES

March 21-April 19

Your boundless energy will drive you to solve a multitude of problems. You’ll be delighted to find that the worries that used to cause you stress are now a thing of the past. Your future is now brighter.

TAURUS

April 20-May 20

A minor health problem could draw attention. If you treat the situation seriously, you’ll get the care you need to recover quickly. Sometimes, all you must do is smile at life and it will smile back

GEMINI

May 21-June 20

Expect to have lots of people around you this week Your friends will suggest a variety of exciting activities, but some could upset you Use your best judgment to choose the ones that interest you most.

CANCER

June 21-July 22

July 23-Aug. 22

Responsibilities at work and home keep piling up You must prioritize certain tasks and stop procrastinating to get things done This will give you a sense of accomplishment.

LEO

You’ll discover a new form of spirituality beneficial to your mental and physical well-being. It could be a question of learning or sharing knowledge This brilliant development will help you rediscover your zest for life

VIRGO

Aug. 23-Sept 22

Avoid repressing the emotions that are overwhelming you. Your family and friends will be there to support you in a difficult situation. Things will gradually become clearer, showing you the way to the solution to all your worries.

Sept. 23-Oct. 22

LIBRA

Relationships are simpler when you’re not emotionally involved You could encounter tension with those closest to you. However, you and your friends and colleagues will understand each other perfectly. Take a step back if necessary

SCORPIO

Oct 23-Nov. 21

Important details will need your attention. A promotion could be on the horizon. However, you’ll need to negotiate your position with authority and define your responsibilities. People will be generous with you.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22-Dec. 21

If you’re single, love could be knocking at the door. Perhaps in the form of a close friend declaring their feelings for you. An unexpected sum of money could come your way. At the very least, you could be offered some form of compensation.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22-Jan. 19

Your plans to move will come to fruition. Despite your busy schedule, you’ll put your family first. Your devotion to those close to you will be obvious One of your social media posts could garner a lot of attention.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20-Feb 18

Feb. 19-March 20

You could be tempted to buy a new car. However, you must be sensible to avoid financial stress Take a few days to think it over, and your desire for unnecessary luxury could fade

PISCES

Affection will be paramount this week. Devote some time to constructive conversations to resolve tensions in your relationship and promote harmony and tenderness. Following a gut feeling could solve your emotional and financial problems. YOUR

TheParish of St.John

theDivine, 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

ExaltingJesus,Equipping His Followers,Engaging theWorld

WorshipService

Sundays 10am

on our website and Facebook Live 2262ReadCres. 604-898-3737

www.squamishbaptistchurch.org

SeeWebsite for Service times and location

coastalchurch.org/squamish Share

604.892.9161