December 25, 2025 by Pacific Coastal Publications LP

PAGE 6

FROM THE NATION

A Q&A with Squamish Nation’s chairperson

PAGE 11

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025

S Q U A M I S H C H I E F. C O M

BRENNAN PARK, WOODFIBRE LNG TENSIONS SURFACE AT BUDGET FORUM Residents pressed council on recreation funding at Brennan Park and the district’s strained relationship with Woodfibre LNG during a wide-ranging budget discussion LIZ MCDONALD

emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

s rain poured down over Squamish, residents streamed into Howe Sound Brewery and Pub to press District staff on the 10-year budget master

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plan. The public event, held Dec. 10, was an opportunity to engage with District of Squamish staff, the mayor and council members ahead of the upcoming budget decisions. BUDGET: Continued on 2

2 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025

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BUDGET: Continued from 1 In a wide-ranging question-and-answer period that covered the usual suspects of municipal politics—recreation, tourism, education, health care, emergency services and business, namely Woodfibre LNG—one theme stood out, and council returned to it repeatedly: Squamish has been living beyond its means for too long. “Squamish, like most other communities across the country, is working to manage the significant cost of upgrading aging infrastructure and facilities that in some cases date back to the late ’50s,” Mayor Armand Hurford said. “This is, in fact, a shared challenge across North America, and one that has been intensified in Squamish due to historical underinvestment in response to the realities of the era.” Those realities include the loss of major economic drivers in Squamish. When mills and other large employers shut down, the tax revenue they generated disappeared as well. Hurford said previous councils faced a difficult task—raising taxes on residents who had just lost their economic security. “But the facts of the matter are, there was an underinvestment in facilities for a long period of time, and we are grappling with that now,” he said. Add to that Squamish’s proximity to the Lower Mainland and the resulting rapid population growth, and the gaps in infrastructure and amenities have become increasingly visible for a community that has changed dramatically over the past decade. While the District may have lived beyond its means through historically low taxation and deferred maintenance, much of the conversation ultimately centred on two hot-button issues: recreation facilities and Woodfibre LNG.

WHAT’S GOING UP An overview of the 2026-2035 financial plan was presented to council Dec. 9 during a special business meeting, which you can read here. Under Squamish’s proposed 2026 budget, a

PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

It was a good turnout to the Budget open house at Howe Sound Brewing on Dec. 10.

net tax revenue increase of 13.1% over the 2025 taxation is expected. This equates to approximately $389 per average residential taxpayer on a home assessed at roughly $1.14 million. District staff say most of the increase is driven by unavoidable costs, not new services. About 7.7% comes from pre-committed expenses such as labour and benefit contracts, policing, transit, inflation and debt servicing tied to previously approved capital projects. Another 2.4% is earmarked for asset management reserves, which council says are needed to replace aging infrastructure after decades of underinvestment. Maintaining existing service levels—including fire services and

transit—accounts for roughly 2.9%, while new or revised one-time projects and community grants make up the remainder. The broader 2026–2035 financial plan outlines about $348 million in capital spending over 10 years, of which $42.8 million is earmarked for 2026. Utility rates are set to increase in 2026, with water up 1.8%, wastewater up 7.2% and solid waste up 5.2%. Utility costs funds are deemed self-balancing, meaning revenue for the service is generated through use. Increased utility rates will go up starting in January, and the fee goes towards “operating costs, inflation, growth, and infrastructure renewal, including annual transfers to reserves,” according to the “2026-2035

Financial Plan – Tying It All Together” staff report.

RECREATION: A COMMUNITY PROJECT? Opinions varied on what council should prioritize, but one of the clearest points of concern was the state of Squamish’s recreation facilities. Council said roughly 75% of District facilities require significant upgrades. While residents repeatedly raised recreation amenities as a priority, council emphasized that it has focused first on life-safety infrastructure, including fire BUDGET: Continued on 3

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BUDGET: Continued from 2 halls and the public works facility. There is also the reality that a new ice rink or pool would require external funding. Hurford said that funding could come through grants, partnerships and fundraising. “The coming year will see significant time and effort devoted to validating recreation needs, determining constructability and identifying funding strategies,” he said. That work would be carried out through a recreation task force, which includes hiring consultants at a projected cost of about $1 million—a recommendation that faced pushback from some councillors when it was first introduced. Coun. John French suggested Squamish’s recreation facilities were historically built as community projects, pointing to Brennan Park as an example. Industry helped create the surrounding fields, while a local physician led fundraising efforts for the pool. “We don’t have that public participation the way I remember it growing up in this community,” French said. “And I think we have an opportunity, particularly with the expansion of Brennan Park, to explore ways for the community to come together to partially fund those big projects.”

DEVELOPMENT CHARGES AND PROVINCIAL LIMITS Alongside recreation funding, council also addressed frequent assertions that developers are not paying more toward amenities. Hamiton took time to explain that the District’s ability to charge developers is largely dictated by provincial legislation. “People say there’s so much development— why aren’t developers paying for it?” he said. “The reality is the province is very restrictive in what we can charge. We do everything we can within what we’re legally allowed to do.” He pointed to amenity cost charges (ACCs) as a new tool recently granted by the province. “That’s a brand-new tool. We’ve just passed the

bylaw, and for the first time we’re allowed to charge on every development and put that money into recreation,” he said. The councillor also addressed rumours that large industrial projects had offered to build recreation facilities or housing, offers that council allegedly rejected. “That has not happened,” he said. The Squamish Chief has heard similar claims from residents. In a recent interview, Woodfibre LNG CEO Luke Schauerte said he was not aware of any such offers. Coun. Eric Andersen emphasized the importance of long-term planning to ensure Squamish is ready when funding opportunities arise. “We understand there’s impatience in the community with respect to facilities,” Andersen said. “But unless we have updated roadmaps and adequate plans, we won’t be ready when funding sources come along.”

RELATIONS WITH WOODFIBRE LNG A ‘WORK IN PROGRESS’ One resident noted that Squamish’s mill industry declined years ago and argued that community needs should outweigh animosity toward certain industries. “If it is LNG, maybe don’t fight with them continuously,” he said. “If it’s another industry, how do we encourage them in?” Hurford responded by describing the relationship as complex. “I think it’s important to recognize that the step before getting benefit is ensuring there’s not a negative impact,” he said. “This has been a dance that’s been happening broadly. It’s complex, and we’re in a weird spot right now, but we’ll work through it. The residents are going to be here for as long as these projects are here. We’ll call it a work in progress.” That “weird spot” appears to reference Woodfibre LNG’s recent lawsuit against the District. Coun. Jenna Stoner, speaking through a strained voice after a marathon council meeting the day before, said one challenge is that existing

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industries lack room to grow. “We need an industrial sector land-use plan,” she said. “That opens things up a bit with Cheekye and the rail yard so we can have companies like Quantum and Carbon Engineering stay here. We’re also losing people because they can’t afford to live here.” She described the housing crisis as a catch-22: businesses cannot grow if workers have nowhere to live.

EDUCATION AND HEALTH CARE One resident raised questions about community planning for education and health care, while acknowledging those areas fall under provincial jurisdiction. Coun. Chris Pettingill said the District zones land for schools and hospitals, works closely with the school board and Vancouver Coastal Health, and regularly advocates to the province and federal government for more funding. French added that school enrolment is expected to plateau in the near term, but anecdotal evidence suggests growth is coming. “I’ve heard there’s about one baby a day being born at Squamish General Hospital,” he said. “That tells me we need to be ready for when the baby boom we’ve seen since COVID really ramps up.” French noted that Squamish’s school sites are land-rich, allowing for future expansion. Hurford said several councillors sit on regional boards, including the regional hospital district board, and have been engaged with Vancouver Coastal Health on its 20-year Sea to Sky health vision. “A new hospital in Squamish is identified in that plan,” Hurford said. “The location, funding and timelines are still being worked through.” The plan also includes an expansion of Hilltop House.

POLICE AND FIRE Public safety spending also came under scrutiny, with one resident questioning why police and fire budgets continue to rise even as buildings become safer and volunteer

The coming year will see significant time and effort devoted to validating recreation needs, determining constructability and identifying funding strategies. MAYOR ARMAND HURFORD

search-and-rescue teams seem to provide more benefit to the community. Councillors said staffing levels are driven less by crime or fire frequency than by safety requirements, geography and growing demand. Fire crews, they said, must meet minimum staffing levels to enter buildings, while increasingly complex, multi-storey developments require more personnel on scene. Council also noted Squamish lacks neighbouring municipalities that can provide backup, increasing pressure on local services. On the policing side, councillors said officers spend significant time on administrative and disclosure requirements, reducing frontline availability unless staffing increases. Firefighters are also increasingly responding to medical emergencies, including overdoses, often arriving before ambulances. Council said protective services now account for roughly 30% of the District’s operating budget, a share driven by rising call volumes, geographic isolation and the challenge of providing 24-hour coverage in a fast-growing community. The remaining feedback or “what we heard” from the session was brought to council Dec.16.

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SQUAMISH’S NEW CAT RESCUE SERVICE IS READY TO GO

A new non-profit is set and ready for all cats in need of rescue

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s your cat stuck up a tree or in the cat-flap? Give these cat-lovers a call. Rescue Meow is Squamish’s latest rescue service non-profit, the brainchild of Tony McLane and Brian Shannon, who share a climbing background in the Sea to Sky and a love of cats. The Squamish Chief spoke with McLane about how the organization came to be. McLane was inspired by mutual climber friends who also enjoy rescuing cats, besides rope-work and problem solving. “When you have two different things that are really entertaining to yourself, and you combine them, and then the result is something useful for other people, it feels like a win-win situation,” he said. “I don’t own my own cat, so it’s an opportunity to meet and hang out with other cats, and I’m sure interesting people—the owners—to interact with along the way.” McLane—whose current occupation is carpentry—had cats growing up, and has been rock-climbing since he was a kid. In his

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20s and 30s he started safety management, guiding, and also industrial rigging in the film industry, for which he helped make adventure reality shows. He met his friend and co-worker Shannon whilst climbing around seven years ago. Shannon owns a rescue cat from Greece. McLane suggested that Squamish needs a direct line for cat rescues, rather than going to the fire department or the BCSPCA, both of which have other focuses than finding lost cats. “It’s not like I have something other people don’t, because there are other climbers who like cats, who could do this as well. But thus far, it doesn’t appear anybody is putting themselves out there sending a message. I think that’s the difference,” McLane said. McLane describes the climbing of trees as less of a challenge than catching the cat safely, despite not having extensive treeclimbing experience. He emphasized the need for diligence, especially when the cat is scared. He explained his potential typical method of rescue; using a small mesh net or sack to catch the cat, with the ability to put a hand

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RESCUE: Continued from 4 (with gloves, in case the cat is scared or aggressive) through the bottom. McLane described how he would grasp the cat by the scruff of its neck, before scooping it into the bag and cinching the bag to seal it, before gently lowering it down to the ground. Alternatively, he said the cat can be caught

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025 | 5

in a large sheet at the foot of the tree, depending on the circumstances. In terms of climbing the tree itself, McLane described how he would put an anchor around the trunk, using it to hold as he climbed with ropes to launch himself. Alternatively, he would use a ladder again, depending on circumstances. McLane and Shannon, of course, prioritize safety; firstly that of themselves, then the cat, and then the tree, which they would do their best not to damage. When applicable to the owner, McLane advised using a GPS tracker to find a cat if necessary. “I will always show up and definitely do everything I can, and call friends for help. I’m hoping to learn by doing,” McLane said. He added that Rescue Meow, as a non profit, is about helping others, rather than making money. All cat rescues are free. Obligation-free donations are accepted. Rescue Meow is available now to take rescue requests, operating in the Sea to Sky from Brackendale to Britannia. McLane may be contacted via 604 848 8545 or squamishcliffcamping@gmail.com Shannon may be contacted via 604 655 5881. Ina Pace is The Squamish Chief’s Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) reporter. This reporting was produced through the LJI, which supports original civic journalism across Canada.

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SQUAMISH NATION CHAIR REFLECTS ON A YEAR OF RECONCILIATION AND RESILIENCE

After a transformative year marked by cultural milestones, international diplomacy, and urgent public health action, Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams reflects on his role as chairperson of the Sḵwx̱w ú7mesh Úxwumixw INA PACE

ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

“W

hen we talk about how we are implementing our culture and who we are, it gives me chills.” Elected to council 12 years ago, Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams is a spokesperson for Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), currently serving as the council’s chairperson. “Moving into the role of chairperson of the Nation, is quite an extravagant [evolution], cherished by me for certain,” he said. As chairperson, Williams leads the council’s internal processes, as well as advocacy with external relations; someone who indeed has a holistic oversight of the Nation’s development and presence over the last decade, let alone this last year. There have been significant developments— progressive and regressive, largely the former—in the journey to reconciliation this year, including those of land strategy, cultural implementation, the affirmation of positive foreign relations, and most recently, a working response to medical crises. The Squamish Chief met with Williams at the Nation’s main office in North Vancouver to get his perspective of this year, including the significance of having an open heart and mind—a recurring theme in his discourse. What follows is a version of that conversation edited for length and clarity.

Q: Congratulations, Wilson, on seeing this year through. Among all the collective achievements of Squamish Nation this year, which are the top three that you are the most proud of? A: I’m proud to have been able to represent our Nation personally and professionally, leading up to the Invictus Games, and the travelling I did worldwide.

PHOTO BY INA PACE/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams is a spokesperson for Sk_wx_wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), currently serving as the council’s chairperson.

When we hosted the games here in Vancouver in February, the Nation got to host the Duke and Duchess of Sussex- then Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan Markle and tour them around some of our villages. We really showcased our language nest in our community. The Duke and Duchess got to sit with some of the kids speaking Sḵwx̱wú7mesh language, and then we got to welcome them formally in our second home of the Nation—our Chief Joe Mathias Centre. There is a statement from the Duke that it was his favourite visit, being here the last couple of years. We called it international reconciliation. They were committing to meeting our people, seeing our village and learning some of the history of our people. So they had that open heart and mind. That really kind of felt surreal to not only me, but you can see it in

their eyes and in our community. Another thing that comes to mind is that we hosted CBC. They did a live broadcast of their morning show in our Elder centre in our Xwemelch’stn village. I was part of the show. We shared stories, and some of the initiatives we’re doing. We also talked about our history, and had mentors in the room who’ve lived this wholesome journey of our people, and carry teachings from their ancestors … in a really different lens that anyone has ever seen. From us being live, to sharing b-roll of pictures of history, that really hits home for me, because we’re adapting to share our story; we’re building relations with external entities, we’re building trust and respect. Our people have a hard time opening up right away. Other than that, I had the opportunity to

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travel to Nice, France for the Ocean Rise and Coastal Resilience Summit in June. I got to be a representative and spokesperson on a panel in regards to our climate action strategy. I was sharing teachings. We really wanted to share our story. Q: On the other side of the coin, there’s been a few challenges for the Nation too. What have been the most significant challenges the Nation has faced this year, and is there anything you feel you might have negotiated differently? A: The Nation recently declared a health crisis in our community due to the toxic drugs that are rampant in our city, in our community. That’s something we haven’t seen to this level. We’re losing people at a more rapid pace than we’ve ever seen. I wish we declared a health crisis postCOVID, where a lot of mental health instabilities were ery apparent. There’s cause for concern today, and I’m very happy we put our foot down with our new council in regards to not only declaring a health crisis, but a whole list of things we’re committing to. We’re looking at really streamlining how we can make our community safer; in dealing with drug dealers in our community, less crime, and in helping our young women and vulnerable people. We’ve evolved our administration and security. We’re looking at hiring a private investigator. We have a short term plan right now—it’s started already—leading up to March 31 of our fiscal year, allocating funds appropriately. The plan also includes building more intimate relations with the RCMP, and in our integrated First Nation police unit. We’re looking to also expand that to emergency services like the ambulance and fire department, so we can look at how to better NATION: Continued on 7

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025 | 7

NATION: Continued from 6 serve our people in emergency situations, and also in how we communicate. Q: I’ve been reading over some statistics in Indigenous communities, about the rates of youth suicide, and indeed the ongoing toxic drugs crisis. As you say, Indigenous life expectancy has rapidly decreased. Since the national state of emergency regarding toxic drugs was declared in 2016, Indigenous life expectancy has decreased by seven years, between 2015 to 2023 to be precise. Can you speak to the impact the crisis has had on Nation members, and what do you hope changes in the next year for them? A: I’m not surprised by the statistics in regards to how we differentiate; these things are very privy to our community, especially when we look back at the last five years. We’re a very young Nation. We look at our vulnerable people having external influences and kind of swaying down a road where they shouldn’t—they’re not aware. How do we mitigate these challenges? How do we save lives? How do we save the grief, the trauma, that our families are affected with? We have got to connect with our community, connect with our families. We want to help them deal with the trauma they are experiencing as well. It’s a team effort on the Nation’s side. We are putting a lot of energy, also resources, into mitigating some of these challenges. Like I mentioned, we’re armouring ourselves up

with the crisis response team, we are elevating hours for our mobile outreach unit, which connects with our people who are out there. We want to make sure we surround them with their culture. Q: You mentioned how important it is to build up international relations. In addition to meeting the former Duke and Duchess of Sussex in February, you visited Ontario this year in May, where you saw King Charles III affirm his support and recognition for Indigenous communities across Canada. Which relationships, nationally or internationally—if any—do you feel are a priority for the Nation to be rekindling in today’s political climate? A: I think all relations are very important internationally, especially in travelling myself to these international events; meeting certain delegates, and sharing our story, so people have that open heart and mind when they see the Nation again, and they say “We know someone from the Squamish Nation,” or they say “We know Indigenous people in Canada,” and we want to leave that impression. When we think about the economy or the political climate we’re living in, we want to keep up the day and age where truth and reconciliation is at the forefront of people’s discussion, especially in Canada, where there’s a lot of healing that’s needed. There’s a lot of unity that’s needed, and there’s a lot of respect. If you have that respect, you have the heart and mind to learn more about one

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Transit Holiday Service December 25 & 26 Sunday Service December 31

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January 1

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Curbside Collection Changes

Please be aware that starting January 2, 2026, totes must be at the curb by 7:15 a.m. on collection days. This is a permanent change. NO CURBSIDE PICKUP

COLLECTION CHANGED TO

Thursday, December 25

Saturday, December 27

Thursday, January 1

Saturday, January 3

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A Field Allocation Meeting will be held on January 28, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Brennan Park Recreation Centre. Calendar will be posted online no later than February 16, 2026.

Season 1: March 1–August 31, 2026 Fields: Centennial Fields (1–4, 7, 8), Field 5 (Homer Dome), Field 6 (LaRoy Watt), Hendrickson Fields, Artificial Turf, Howe Sound Secondary Community Field, and Beer Garden or Tournament use within the District of Squamish. 2026 Field Closures

Dates not listed will operate on the regular schedule.

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Field Allocation Meeting

Hendrickson Fields: March 30–April 10 Centennial Fields 1–6: April 20–May 1 Hendrickson Fields & Centennial Field 5: June 22–July 3 Centennial Fields 1–6: July 6–17 Hendrickson Field & Centennial Field 5: August 3–7 Centennial Fields 1–6: August 17–28 squamish.ca/rec

New Landfill Hours and Fees

There are new operating hours for the Squamish Landfill. Also, as of January 2, there will be increased tipping fees. Visit squamish.ca/landfill for more information. DAILY (March–November)

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DAILY (December–February)

9 am–4:45 pm

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December 25 and January 1

Brennan Park Recreation Centre Closed January 2 for renovation work. View other Holiday Hours at squamish.ca/rec

New Fees and Charges

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RECREATION AND CULTURE

New recreation fees and charges will take effect on January 3, 2026, affecting pool and arena admission fees, skate rentals, and multi-passes. Take advantage of this opportunity to stock up on passes before the rate change! Passes are valid for two years from the date of purchase. Available in-person or online at squamish.ca/rec.

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NATION: Continued from 7 another. I’d love to continue building relations with King Charles and the family. And then, you know, we will look at the world visiting again for the FIFA World Cup next year, when we will take the time to really look at the meaning of not just the World Cup, but hosting guests when they come to Vancouver. The Nation is very multicultural; we want to be at the forefront to share stories through our dark history—there’s not a lot of stories shared about our Indigenous people. When guests come here, and whenever they leave, they will get a sense of meaningful connection to the land. Q: In June, Squamish Nation celebrated regaining 20,000 hectares of land in the Sea to Sky. What can people expect to see as a result of that in the near future, if anything? A: I would say in a year or beyond you’ll see some strategic planning on land development. The first thing is really looking at what we’re sharing with our people in regards to a vision. We want to make sure our people are on the same page too, because we want to comfort them. But in another sense, we want to build capacity to say, “How are we going to do it?’ and “Who’s going to do it?” It may be beyond my years, when I’m not sitting here, when our young people are taking over our lands and our future.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025 | 9

We’re so blessed that our Nation has this opportunity, but we’ve built relations to get to this stage, in regards to acquiring lands back, and—at the same time—hope and respect to the lands, and respect to history. More of the storytelling is going to come out. Once we announced that day, I got calls and messages from some Elders and storytellers who said they were triggered in a good way about what our people used to do, and how they lived off that land since time immemorial. Q: Speaking of land back, tonight (Dec. 9), Squamish Nation is revealing its Squamish Valley Community Plan at Totem Hall in Squamish. Can you touch on some high level aspects of that plan? A: Squamish Valley is going to be our biggest reserve in the future, housing most of our Nation. We need infrastructure. We need places for our economy to grow, not just within the Nation. We have procurement opportunities, where people are going to thrive and have their own businesses. We want to mentor doctors and nurses and specialized health care. When we talk about how we are implementing our culture and who we are, it gives me chills, if I can visualize my youngest daughter being a doctor, or something in that field, helping others in a Sḵwx̱wú7mesh way, but also a Western way; we can pull them out of the dark places and help them heal, or give them that hope. Q: What are you most excited to work on with the newly elected council next year?

A: We’ve got 11 new council [members] who’ve never been in a political realm in their time, but we have some returning councillors as well. I’m very excited about the diversity of our table. We have Johnny Williams, a very young, very smart, great-hearted young man for the people. We also have Elders who bring richness of experience, whether it’s political or communal. And then, there’s a few of us in between who have life experience, but also political experience, with a very refreshing state of mind in bringing their skills to the table. The first order of business I had our staff do was bring back our full logo—the Thunderbird logo—into our brand book. I feel that was the spark that set the stage for the next four years. Q: Is there anything we have not yet covered that you would like to give an honourable mention, or any potential setbacks you wish to highlight about this year? A: I’m going to highlight our generational plan to move people home. We are living in a world of higher density. We have Hiy̓ ám̓ Housing society helping at arm’s length through politics to move forward, and to have access to funding from the provincial and federal governments. We look at how our Nation has evolved, living in a vibrant city. [In] hosting and being part of [for example] the Juno Awards, we become a part of the art, the beautiful art scene in Vancouver. Our people feel included rather than left outside.

Our Nation also released a land use planning strategy within the community, and Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation has done a lot of great work. It was part of the moratorium they did in regards to not taking unsolicited third party proposals, and they actually brought back to council a lot of really good work towards a vision [for] our lands. It’s not all about economic wealth. It’s about how we are visualizing our people thriving, living, working and playing in our own community. We really are comforted with all that work, and it sets a precedent for how we’re living on our lands. It gives everyone hope that to pursue these plans is what richness really is for people. Q: Finally Wilson, do you have any holiday plans to celebrate what you may consider a progressive year’s work? A: I will continue to work, to help plan for the new council. I love working, but I love my family first. We do have plans to holiday together. The holidays are a reminder to take care of my family, and the wellness I’ve incorporated into my role has been a life-saving experience. It allows me the strength to continue this work. It gives me hope for the future, to mentor my children in a way that I could never have imagined. Ina Pace is The Squamish Chief’s Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) reporter. This reporting was produced through the LJI, which supports original civic journalism across Canada.

10 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025

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Community Bylaw Services Call 604-815-5067 After hours or on holidays call Squamish RCMP: 604-892-6100

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BRENNAN PARK RECREATION CENTRE

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• X̱wún̓eḵw Park Sea Dike upgrades continue.

• Loggers East Storm Sewer project continues on Finch Drive. squamish.ca/building-our-future

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9 AM–2:45 PM Closed

Fireworks Ban

As we head into the holiday season, we’d like to remind the public that fireworks are no longer permitted in the District of Squamish.

Notice of Bylaw Readings District of Squamish Zoning Bylaw 2200, 2011, Amendment Bylaw (Lot 15 Aspen Road) No. 3204, 2025 Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 467 of the Local Government Act, that District of Squamish Council will be considering first, second and third readings of District of Squamish Zoning Bylaw 2200, 2011, Amendment Bylaw (Lot 15 Aspen Road) No. 3204, 2025. PROPERTY

Lot 15 Aspen Rd, Squamish, B.C., as shown on the location map. PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT

The purpose of the proposed Bylaw is to rezone Lot 15 Aspen Road FROM Neighourhood Node Commercial (C-13) to Comprehensive Development 120 (CD-120) zone to develop a six-storey mixed-use rental building. When: At the Regular Council meeting on January 6, 2026 at 6.00 p.m. Where: Council Chambers at Municipal Hall, 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish B.C. The Meeting can be viewed: In Person at Council Chambers at Municipal Hall, 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, B.C., or electronically at: squamish.civicweb.net

LOCATION MAP

NO PUBLIC HEARING REQUIRED

In accordance with the Provincial housing legislation, Section 464(3) of the Local Government Act, local governments are prohibited from holding public hearings related to zoning applications for developments that are primarily residential and are consistent with the local government’s Official Community Plan (OCP). This proposal meets those requirements. HOW TO VIEW THE PROPOSED BYLAW

A copy of the proposed bylaw and related information that has been or may be considered by the Council can be inspected online or at Municipal Hall. • Online at: squamish.ca/showcase • Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, British Columbia, from Monday, December 29, 2025 to Tuesday, January 6, 2026 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please note Municipal Hall is closed December 22–26. Enquiries regarding the proposed amendment bylaw may be made to the Planning Department at 604-815-5002 or by email to planning@squamish.ca. This is the first of two notices. Dated this 25 day of December, 2025, at Squamish, British Columbia.

squamishchief.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025 | 11

THE GIVING KIND: A GENEROUS DONATION TO SQUAMISH CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY CARE

‘It meant the world to us,’ said one volunteer after receiving a surprise cheque that will help fund next year’s hampers for struggling individuals and seniors JENNIFER THUNCHER/LIZ MCDONALD

A comprehensive guide to health, wellness and medical services in the Sea to Sky Corridor.

Check out the 2025 issue

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

GuidedBy™ online business directory included! *some exclusions applies

t this time of year—especially this year, when many are struggling—stories of generosity and good cheer warm the

heart. Donations to Squamish Community Christmas Care provide plenty of fodder for those tales. One of the largest donations received by the charity surely came from employees of Surerus Murphy Joint Venture, who are working on the Eagle Mountain-Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project. “When I got here on the project, it was [last] September, and we decided to help out CARE: Continued on 15

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“Santa” delivers toys from the employees of Surerus Murphy Joint Venture.

Squamish Chief 604-892-9161 ads@squamishchief.com

Pique Newsmagazine 604-938-0202 sales@piquenewsmagazine.com

Your future starts here Global energy. Local opportunity. Join a first-of-its-kind LNG project rooted in partnership with Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation). At Woodfibre LNG, long-term, skilled careers are being built right here in the Sea-to-Sky — helping deliver lower-carbon energy to the world while creating opportunity at home. woodfibrelng.ca/careers

12 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025

squamishchief.com THE SQUAMISH CHIEF NEWSPAPER, PRINTED EVERY THURSDAY BY LODESTAR MEDIA 38113 Second Avenue Box 3500, Squamish BC, V8B 0B6

CONTACT US PRINTED EVERY 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@ lodestarmedia.ca follow @thuncher REPORTER LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@ lodestarmedia.ca REPORTER INA PACE ipace@ lodestarmedia.ca SALES MANAGER CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com MULTI- MEDIA SALES REPRESENTATIVE KIM BOATMAN kboatman@ squamishchief.com CIRCULATION MANAGER DENISE CONWAY dconway@ squamishchief.com

PUBLISHER SARAH STROTHER sstrother@lodestarmedia.ca

The Squamish Chief is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact Editor Jennifer Thuncher at jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information. Reproduction of any material contained in this publication is expressly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publisher.

EDITORIAL

SQUAMISH ‘SANTA BABY’

erry Christmas. What follows is a Squamish rendition of the song “Santa Baby,” written by Joan Javits (lyrics) and Philip Springer

(music). Santa baby, so hurry down my skylight tonight Santa baby, a Specialized, Trek, or Devinci mountain bike, light blue I’ll wait up for you, dear Santa baby, so hurry down my skylight tonight Think of all the fun I’ve missed Think of all the trails that I haven’t wrecked Next year, I could be just as good If you check off my Christmas list Santa baby, I want a house I can afford and really that’s not a lot Been an angel all year Santa baby, so hurry down the skylight tonight Santa honey, one little thing I really need, the deed To a piece of property—Dentville or Valleycliffe will do Santa baby, so hurry down the skylight tonight Santa cutie, and fill my stocking with skis and cheques Sign your “X” on the line Santa cutie, and hurry down the skylight tonight Come and trim my free-range Christmas tree With some decorations bought at Canadian Tire I really do believe in you Let’s see if you believe in me Santa baby, forgot to mention one little thing, a Toyota Tacoma I don’t mean the one without a Thule on top Santa baby, so hurry down the skylight tonight Hurry down the skylight tonight Hurry, tonight

THE FABRIC OF COMMUNITY: HOW TRADITIONS SHAPE SOCIETY YOUTH COLUMN

AUNI DAYTON

raditions, whether they be a weekly family movie night, or a national holiday celebration, are an important part of our cultural history, providing stability and joy around the world. They are more than rituals repeated across multiple generations. They are the fabric that hold together psychology, sociology, and well-being. The many types of traditions, whether they are family routines, cultural events, or community practices, create stability, even as the world changes. Scientific research shows that our traditions are not just an artifact from the past, they are vital to identity, belonging, and health. Psychologists believe that traditional play or games are incredibly important for family cohesion and strength. An article published by the American Psychology Association suggests that family routines not only strengthen bonds, they improve health by offering predictability and lessening stress. Additionally, Psychology Today suggests that family rituals are connected to positive child adjustment, parenting capability, and overall happiness. These findings suggest that traditions, whether it is a weekly dinner, an annual celebration, or a

bedtime story, provide emotional security and stronger bonds. The Institute of Child Psychology writes that rituals provide children with stability. These predictable traditions lower stress hormones and calm nervous systems which helps children thrive. From a sociological perspective, traditions are seen as the glue that keeps societies and communities together. According to Easy Sociology traditions promote cultural values and connect people with their history and create a feeling of belonging. They are social constructs that evolve with time, but their function is always to connect people through shared experiences. Traditions also have a large effect on social norms and practices. As GuruMuda Sociology explains, they affect the behaviour of society members and create a framework for communities. Traditions like holidays or festivals strengthen the sense of group identity and everyday rituals like neighbourhood gatherings strengthen intergenerational bonds. Traditions contribute not only to family and communities, they also promote general well being. A review of literature in Frontier in Public Health found that engaging in cultural events like rituals and festivals is linked to improved health and well-being. Cultural participation has also been found to improve emotional resilience and YOUTH COLUMN: Continued on 13

squamishchief.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025 | 13

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

JOIN US ONLINE

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

WHY ARE SO MANY PEOPLE RUNNING RED LIGHTS? DRIVING

JOHN DUCKER

s we approach the holiday season with its increased social gatherings, there’s naturally more chances to meet with family and friends — to catch up on the things we hold dear to us. In my case it’s: “What’s going on out there? Why are so many people running red lights these days?” I’ve heard so much about red light scofflaws in the past couple of weeks that the topic seems impossible to ignore. Ask any driver lately, and you’ll hear the same complaint: red lights don’t seem to mean what they used to. But let’s take a step back first and talk about the big picture — how all those traffic lights are supposed to work. If you had prudent and realistic instruction as a learning driver, you would know that the intersection is one of the most dangerous places on the road. A green light doesn’t mean: “Blast on through. You’re totally protected, nothing to worry about here.” What you should have learned is that you enter an intersection with caution, constantly scanning right and left to make sure it’s safe to proceed. Your guard should never be down. Next is the yellow light, and this is where 50% of the danger of red light-running actually begins. A yellow light doesn’t mean slow down a bit, or in the case of some drivers, speed up and get through. It doesn’t even mean “prepare to stop”, if you want to get technical.

YOUTH COLUMN: Continued from 12 general satisfaction in many different cultures. Traditions matter because they connect the past to the present and they support identity, stronger relationships, and resilience, for both individual people and communities. While traditions change over time, the

A yellow light means you “must” stop unless it’s not safe to do so. Wet road conditions or another driver following too closely behind can legitimately affect your decision not to stop for a yellow, but in my experience, those variables are quite rare. Yellow light tickets carry the same penalty points and fines as running a red light. Which brings us to the red light. There are a few reasons for this seeming rise in “ignoring the red” behaviour. First, there’s distraction. Modern vehicles are quieter, more insulated, and more technologically demanding than ever. Some of us remember when we used to just get in and drive our cars. Drivers now juggle navigation screens, incoming messages, podcasts, and hands-free calls, all while piloting a two-ton machine. A momentary glance downward can be enough to miss the light changing, and by the time the driver looks up, stopping feels impossible - so they don’t. Next, there’s impatience. Traffic volumes have grown faster than road capacity around here, stretching our commute times and fraying tempers. When drivers feel squeezed by congestion, they’re more likely to “push” a yellow light or gamble that they’re close enough to make it through. The problem is that yellow light phases aren’t any different — but risk tolerance certainly is. Enforcement also matters. Traffic laws only work when drivers believe there are consequences for breaking them. In jurisdictions where red-light cameras were removed, or police resources shifted elsewhere, many

community and cultural values that they center around stay the same. Their value is in their ability to remind us of our identity and belonging. Even in a world that is almost constantly changing, traditions are near constant markers that provide comfort and connection. Whether the traditions are family based, cultural festivities, or community centered events, they create

drivers have quietly recalculated the odds. If no one seems to be getting tickets, some conclude the risk is low enough to take the chance. Once a few drivers start doing it, others follow. Bad habits spread quickly on the road. There’s also a design problem lurking in the background for which I receive a lot of complaints. Poorly timed signals, short advanced left turn cycles, and intersections that don’t account for modern vehicle acceleration or braking distances can set drivers up for failure. When a light seems to change too fast, drivers lose patience with the system — and once trust erodes, compliance often follows. The danger, of course, is huge. Red-light running isn’t just some technical violation; it’s one of the leading causes of serious crashes. Side-impact collisions leave little room for protection, especially for pedestrians and cyclists who are legally crossing on their signal. The margin for error at an intersection is measured in seconds — and sometimes centimetres. Traffic lights only work if we collectively respect them. When too many drivers treat red as negotiable, intersections become guessing games. And on busy roads, guessing is not a strategy, it’s a life-threatening hazard. Maybe the rise in red-light running is real. Maybe it just feels that way. Either way, the response should be the same: slow down, look up, and remember that arriving a minute later is always better than not arriving at all.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK Do you think it is harder to feel good about your body in Squamish, due to the level of athleticism here? Have your say at squamishchief.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

Do you predict your financial situation in 2026 in Squamish will be better, worse or the same? (Top 3 answers) THE SAME WORSE BETTER

45% 31% 12%

MOST READ STORY

‘Belly full of rocks’: Squamish man rescues abused dog hit by car

John Ducker is a retired Victoria Police Department deputy chief.

a sense of stability, meaning, and joy. Traditions are not only about remembering our shared history, they are about improving our well-being and cultural connection. Auni Dayton is a Squamish teen and The Squamish Chief intern, whose family often goes away for Christmas, but is staying in town this year.

LETTERS POLICY The Squamish Chief welcomes letters to the editor of up to 400 words. Letters should be exclusive to this publication and are meant to respond to a local story in The Squamish Chief or raise an issue happening in town. Please include your name, neighbourhood and daytime phone number. The deadline is 5 p.m. Monday to be considered for Thursday’s edition. Full names and neighbourhood will be published with the letter. The publisher reserves the right to refuse and edit letters for length and clarity or to address legal concerns. Email letters to: editor@squamishchief.com.

PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

THE GIVING KIND: Nearly 500 families received a helping hand this holiday season thanks to the efforts of Community Christmas Care and its team of committed volunteers who gathered on Dec. 16 to distribute the hampers.

14 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025

squamishchief.com We are the ﬁrst community in BC to oﬀer a curbside battery collection program. In 2025, we collected 1,250 kgs of batteries & electronics from the curbside service alone.

District of Squamish

2026 Curbside Collection Calendar Garbage

Recycling

Compost

Battery

Reduce negative human-wildlife interactions by locking and storing attractant totes in an enclosure.

This equals our 2024 depot site collection of 1,318 kgs!

Have totes unlocked by 7:15am on your service day; latch clips together to avoid damage during service.

Service times will vary from week-to-week. On your service day: ensure totes are kept out and unlocked on time, leave 1 metre of clearance around each tote for truck access.

January 1st (New Year's Day) collection will occur on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026. December 25th (Christmas Day) collection will occur on Saturday, December 26th, 2026. Weekly Compost services from May 4th - October 23rd. Reduce attractant odours by freezing or disposing of compost on collection day. Reduce attractant odours by thoroughly rinsing all items placed in the recycle tote. Depot site items include: Styrofoam, glass, ﬁlm & ﬂexible packaging, electronics & hazardous waste. Complimentary curbside battery collection on your service day: April 20th -24th and November 2nd - 6th. Collect your household batteries in one clear bag & in a second clear bag collect your small electronics, cell phones, tablets, laptops, video games, cables & cords. On garbage week the bags will be hand collected from on top of your Recycle Tote. The Recycle Tote will indicate your participation and prevent the batteries from being tipped into the garbage truck. Download the Squamish Curbside Collection app to stay updated on important schedule changes

For tote repairs including wildlife damage or service issues, please email: squamishtotes@gﬂenv.com

Depot Site Location Hours Squamish DOX Recycling Depot Site: 40446 Government Rd Recycle Depot Open Daily: 9:00am - 4:30pm Open 7 days a week - closed Christmas and New Years Day Squamish Landfill: 100 Landfill Road Landfill and Recycle Depot Open Daily March - November: 9:00am - 5:45pm December - February: 9:00am - 4:45pm GFL Environmental: 38950 Queens Way Electronics/Hazardous Waste Open Daily: 7:30am - 4:00pm Closed Sundays and Stat Holidays

•Downtown •Dentville •Northyards • Sea & Sky •Shannon Estates •Tantalus Crossing •University Heights •Valleycliﬀe •St’a7mes •Hospital Hill •Angelo’s Trailer Court •Timbertown Trailer Court Tuesday •Willow Crescent •Loggers Estates •Paradise Valley •Upper Squamish

Monday

Totes must be unlocked by 7:15am on your service day

Wednesday

•Garibaldi Estates •Willow Village •Viresence •Skyridge •Kaw’tin

Thursday

•Garibaldi Highlands

Friday

•Brackendale •Wiwk’em

Curbside Collection Reminders: Leave 1 meter of clearance Latch clips together to avoid around totes for truck access damage during service

No compostable or biodegradable plastics in organics totes

squamishchief.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025 | 15

CARE: Continued from 11 Christmas Care,” the company’s charity organizer, Derek Pickford, told The Squamish Chief over the phone on Dec. 15, just after he spent the night dealing with his flooded Brackendale basement caused by the rainstorm. “There were only about 150 of us here on site, so we managed to raise about $6,000 worth of toys and cash.” For 2025, they wanted to help out again. “We have probably 400 to 500 people here almost [now], so we put a big push on it to raise a lot more. So, we had some door prizes from our subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers, and some of them donated cash as well,” he said. When he talked to the folks at Community Christmas Care about the forthcoming donation, he downplayed how much they had amassed. After dropping off about $8,000 in toys, Pickford did the big reveal. “We really appreciate what you guys have done for the people in Squamish in need and the First Nations up past Pemberton that you help out. And we wanted to make sure we did our part in a big way for you this year,” he told the Squamish Community Christmas Care volunteers. Then he presented them with a cheque for $33,425, which included the toys, and $25,000 in cash. “Between the pipeliners, everyone on the Eagle Mountain Project, and then our suppliers and vendors, and contractors chipped in cash or prizes to help out so we could raise that

We really appreciate what you guys have done for the people in Squamish in need and the First Nations up past Pemberton that you help out.

Britannia Mine Museum gratefully acknowledges their community sponsors:

DEREK PICKFORD amount,” Pickford said. Squamish Christmas Care volunteer Mary Carey told The Squamish Chief the generosity made her teary. The donations will be put toward next year’s hampers. “It meant the world to us because, you know, we were struggling, and God provided. They brought us that donation that just made it possible for us to keep going. They do incredible things for our community, and we’re just very, very thankful that they support us,” she said, while the hampers were being loaded up to be distributed throughout Squamish on Dec. 16. “When they handed us a cheque—we’ve never got a donation like that before, and we’re just very, very thankful to them, because now we can start next year—it is wonderful.” This year the charity distributed 492 hampers. Of those, 190 are going to single individuals, many of those seniors.

We are so thankful for another year of caring for your smiles and look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

From our family to yours,

Happy

Holidays

from the Atwell Dental Team

Santa’s Favourite Dental Squad

40437 Tantalus Rd #8, Garibaldi Highlands, BC V0N 1T0

(604) 567-1155 atwelldental.com

16 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025

squamishchief.com

SQUAMISH NATION’S HOLIDAY HAMPERS INCREASED FOR RESIDENTS

Squamish Nation is giving an extra 250 food hampers to Squamish Valley residents for the holiday season INA PACE

ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

BC SPCA Sea to Sky in Squamish

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

Whether you are looking to adopt a new furry friend into your family or would like to know more about how you can make difference for animals in our community, we are here to help. The BC SPCA is a not-forprofit organization which relies primarily on community donations to help animals in need. Please join us in the fight against animal cruelty!

To view more of our adorable pets up for adoption, please visit

petfinder.com

Squamish SPCA • 604.898.9890

ast year, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) packed 1,250 food hampers to help members for the holiday season; this year, due to increased demand, they are packing 1,500. Of these, 250 are extra hampers are for residents of Squamish Valley, whilst the remainder are for residents of West and North Vancouver. Nation community team leader Lisa Baker, who is a Squamish Valley resident, explained that the initiative was coordinated with Ayás Mén̓men (child and family services) and the S7ílhen Food Pantry. She said the hampers contain a turkey dinner with “all the fixings,” and breakfast items for all the Nation members, and their families. The food is bought from Sysco and local grocery stores. “For many households, the hamper means

Thank you!

less stress, a shared meal, and reassurance that they are not alone,” Baker added in an emailed statement. “Another highlight is the strong sense of unity. The program reinforces relationships and strengthens collective capacity. It is a time when Squamish Nation’s values of generosity, respect and togetherness are visible in action,” the statement continued. Baker further explained that each year, since around the COVID-19 pandemic, various Nation departments have assembled the boxes over the holiday season, for every household on reserve. The only difference now is that smaller apartments are being catered to, since the building of complexes such as Seaichem/ Siyich’em. Baker clarified that planning for the hampers’ distribution started in October; though no registration is needed for those living on reserve—and off reserve in the Lower Mainland—members are given a couple of HAMPERS: Continued on 17

We would like to Thank all of our dedicated carriers for delivering in all types of weather!

Any customers wishing to leave a gratuity for their carrier may do so at:The office/38113 Second Ave/ Downtown Squamish

Elise

Asher

Bryce

Gregory & Jason

Erik

Isabel

Sawyer

Olivia & Avery

Keinan

Samuel

Ryker

Maddox

Lilly

Adelaide

Neela

Avery

Peter

Terry

Madison

Viena, Sela & Mac Additionally, thanks go to the following...

Zach

Tristian

Liam

Emma

Aden, Andre, Brooke, Charlie, Eero, Hanna, Katelynn, Noah, Nora, Oliver, Sofia, Thomas, the Tosh Family and Squamish Community Services.

squamishchief.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025 | 17

Land Act: Notice of Application for a Disposition of Crown Land Take notice that the District of Squamish (DoS) from Squamish, BC has applied to the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), Lower Mainland Regional Oﬃce, for a Crown tenure for the purpose of a Community Facility for a public dock, located over the Mamquam Blind Channel, which is Provincially Crown land, legallydescribed as DISTRICT LOT 6234, GROUP 1, NEW WESTMINSTER DIST. WLRS invites comments on this application. The Lands File Number for this application is 2413027.

PHOTO BY INA PACE/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Squamish Nation staff assembling and distributing holiday hampers at Totem Hall, Squamish.

HAMPERS: Continued from 16 weeks to sign up for the December intake. This year’s deadline was Dec. 5. Furthermore, those members living outside the Lower Mainland and the catchment area are eligible for direct deposits and gift cards if they are not able to pick up a hamper. Pick up for the hampers this December is at Totem Hall in Squamish, or the Chief Joe Mathias Centre in West Vancouver. “Members are really happy when they receive

these hampers. You know, with the food scarcity, it’s helpful for them and their children, especially during the holidays,” Baker said. “The holidays are usually the toughest for some families. So having a little bit of help, even from the Squamish Nation, is huge.” Ina Pace is The Squamish Chief’s Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) reporter. This reporting was produced through the LJI, which supports original civic journalism across Canada.

Comments concerning this application should be directed to the Senior Land Oﬃcer, Lower Mainland Region, Ministry of Water Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), at #200 – 10470 152nd Street, Surrey, B.C., V3R 0Y3. Comments will be received by WLRS up to January 24, 2026. WLRS may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the Applications, Comments and Reasons for Decision Database website at http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomoﬁnformation to learn more about FOI submissions.”

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18 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025

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SEA TO SKY NORDICS BRING IN NEW COACH

Former German ski jumper Andreas Wank-Mockenhaupt will lead program development with the local club and Nordic Combined Ski Canada DAVID SONG dsong@lodestarmedia.ca

ver since his arrival in the Sea to Sky Corridor, Andreas Wank-Mockenhaupt has loved what he’s seen. The now-retired German ski jumper’s opinion should hold some weight. He is the 2023-24 Alpencup winner, a Junior World Championships individual bronze medallist and 2024 Vice Junior Team World Champ. WankMockenhaupt also coached for three years under Stefan Horngacher with the German national ski jumping team before helming that country’s junior national squad from 2022 to 2025. Now he’s officially part of the Sea to Sky Nordics and Nordic Combined Ski Canada, fore-running the establishment of a Nordic combined program at Whistler Olympic Park (WOP). What Wank-Mockenhaupt doesn’t love is the fact that Canadian ski-jumpers must train in Europe due to a lack of year-round facilities at home. For the past several years, this has also left Nordic combined hopefuls (who both ski-jump and cross-country ski in their discipline) without

a viable development pathway. “Especially in Whistler Olympic Park, there’s every opportunity to become a good sportsman but it needs some jumping hills for summer training,” said Wank-Mockenhaupt. “I’d like to develop the ski-jumping and Nordic combined program here, to get some athletes growing up in this area. “For me, it’s a little [bit of a] bad thing that such a great nation and this kind of winter sports area we have here is not bringing out winter sport athletes,” he said. “I think in the name of the parents … the goal is that they have their kids at home, and the kids can train here for the whole year. That’s my goal for the next years.” Sea to Sky Nordics director Rick Smith commented in a press release: “Andreas’ appointment represents a tremendous step forward for the development of Nordic combined and ski jumping in the Sea to Sky region, and for these two sports in Canada. His experience at the top level of international sport, along with his commitment to developing athletes, will help us build a sustainable pathway for young COACH: Continued on 19

JAMEY-LYN HORTH-WESSELS WINS BIG AT UFC LAS VEGAS BOUT Squamish’s own Jamey-Lyn Horth-Wessels secured her first-ever UFC technical knockout on Dec. 13 JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

he cheers from family, friends, and supporters grew louder with every strike Jamey-Lyn Horth-Wessels made, before her TKO of Tereza Bledá in Las Vegas Dec. 13. A crowd of supporters at The Sound Martial Arts screamed, jumped, hugged, and gave high-fives as they watched the bout on the big screen at the public viewing party. The fight lasted just two minutes and five seconds before the referee called it in the first round thanks to the Squamish fighter’s strikes, which led to the stoppage. “We were prepared to strike and keep the distance and defend the takedowns and, you know, show everybody in the UFC that I have a right hand,” Horth-Wessels said in the post-fight interview in the octagon. She definitely did that. It is her first TKO in the UFC and her second win of her two fights this year. Asked what is next for her, Horth-Wessels was clear she isn’t done yet. “More fights, more wins, let’s go,” she said. Back in Squamish on Dec. 15, Horth-Wessels

said she didn’t let the pundits casting her as the underdog prior to the fight mess with her head. Some analysts had favoured Bledá, due to her being 10 years younger and two inches taller “Honestly, the game plan doesn’t change because I’m the underdog. We trained 10 weeks preparing for this fight. And, you know, if you just go off of what other people say and their opinions and let that sort of dictate your game plan, then that can be a sort of recipe for disaster,” she said. “I was very confident going in. My team was very confident going in with the game plan we put together so that I didn’t have to think about anything else.” Though the goal is obviously to win the bout, she said she has empathized with Bledá. “I always have compassion for my opponents. You never want to see anybody hurt or injured. And unfortunately, I think she ended up hurting her knee near the end of that fight,” she said. “Stepping in, coming off … two years of battling back from injuries, I’ve been in that position before as well. So I just have sympathy for the process of it, because what we do is not easy. And, you know, we prepare 10 weeks or TKO: Continued on 19

Thank you to our fantastic drivers Dave, Jim, Rick, Rick, Doug, Danna, Peter, Mairi, Geraldine, Jeff, Terra, Debbie, Conrad, Ursula, Rob, Brian, Celine, Charlie, Carl, Wilf, Al, Cory, Heather, Paul, Stan, Janet To our caring dispatchers Kim, Carey, Mary, Debbie, Pat, Hilary And to our support team Kim, Doug, Elizabeth, Grace and Danielle.

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COACH: Continued from 18 Canadians in these disciplines. This is an important investment in the future of our sport and in the young athletes who will take flight in pursuing their own Olympic dreams.”

‘A BROADER APPROACH TO COACHING’ According to Jim Woolsey, Nordic Combined Ski Canada’s chair, efforts to rebuild Nordic combined in Canada were led by John Heilig, who managed that sport at the 2010 Olympics and championed it afterwards. Once he died in 2021 from a suspected heart attack in Beijing, efforts bogged down until Wank-Mockenhaupt entered the picture. He’s only been in British Columbia for a few weeks as of this writing, but Woolsey is already a fan. “Been very impressed with [Andreas] as a person and as a coach,” remarked Woolsey. “One of the things that we were lacking here was a dry-land program in addition to the on-snow program, and so that was one of his first projects which he’s gotten off the ground in the first couple of weeks. “But what I was really impressed with is … when he does the schedule up for things, he looks at how it fits into the kids’ entire day: TKO: Continued from 18 whatever for a fight ... and you get two minutes of fight time.” She gives big props to her team of coaches who got her in top form for the fight. “The team had really done a good job at preparing me … not just physically, but mentally and making sure that I knew and understood the game plan and was confident in my abilities,” she said, adding her team puts in a lot of time and makes sacrifices for her. “And, you know, each fight in each camp brings something new and I end up becoming a little bit better and a little bit stronger and a little bit more martial arts each time.” She also credits the community of Squamish, which has long had her back. “Squamish is always such a great motivational part of my fight camp and my career. They’re so supportive and, you know, just all the little things that go on in town—the cideries, the doughnut shops, the viewing

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025 | 19

starting from breakfast to school to how it fits into the training program after school, making sure that there’s time for things like homework. It’s more of a broader approach to coaching, which I really support.” Wank-Mockenhaupt once strived to qualify for the 2022 Olympic Games, but decided to retire in 2019 once Horngacher recruited him for the national coaching staff. Now he aims to become a coach who serves his athletes in every way feasible, taking pressure off their parents who are currently doing a great deal to help Sea to Sky Nordics operate. The German plans to obtain plastic mats for WOP hills next season to facilitate year-round training. He’s in touch with Sea to Sky’s cross-country unit and organizes logistics for all of the region’s Nordic teams. Furthermore, he is attempting to acquire more material resources from Calgary (which no longer has a functional ski jumping hill) to enhance his own program. “We were quite successful in the last three years with the [German] junior team when I was the head coach,” said Wank-Mockenhaupt. “Hopefully my experiences also as a ski jumper—a professional—could help. I try to give all this knowledge to these young athletes.” Visit seatoskynordics.ca to learn more about Sea to Sky Nordics programming. parties from all the way through Squamish, people wearing their fight shirts, posting their sweaters. It’s just so awesome to get so many messages,” she said, noting she was doing her best to respond to everyone. She shouted out sponsors Summit Concrete and Alta Lake Electric. “Financially, those guys make sure that I don’t go without and that I get the best of everything I need. I have other sponsors throughout it, like Skin Boulevard, where I am actually going today at 5:30 p.m. to get my skin back in order to get myself a nice, facial relax,” she said. She also noted Wonderlands coffee shop has been a big part of her Sundays since summer. “I did a 5K to the cafe run club we started. It was meant to be a six to eight week thing. And it’s still going on strong since August,” she said. “And they provide us with coffee every Sunday. Just everything this whole town has to offer. I’m just so grateful to have such an amazing team.”

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HOME SERVICES CLEANING

Jack Harry Wright, 76, passed away in Squamish on December 15, 2025, on a stormy eveninng with his three girls by his side: Marina, Lindsay and Janice.

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Jack was born in Vancouver and raised in Port Hardy. He was the son of Jean Davidson and Gordon “Scotty” Wright, and brother to Lorraine Rogers. He had three children with Janice: Hayley, Lindsay, and Parker, and is also survived by his daughter Dichelle. His life partner of 27 years was Marina McMaster.

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Jack held many jobs over his lifetime, spending most of his career as a faller working in logging camps along the North Coast of BC. He owned and operated Haylin Contracting before retiring from falling and opening Mountain View Landscape Supply. Jack’s final retirement at the age of 55 freed his time to spend countless days on the Squamish Valley Golf Course and travelling the world with family and friends. An avid lawn bowler, he was a proud member of the West Vancouver Lawn Bowling Club for the past 10 years. Always an athlete, Jack enjoyed fastball in his early years, as well as curling, bowling, and a love of card and dice games-especially Bridge, Yahtzee, and Screwy Louie. Jack was predeceased by his parents and his children Hayley and Parker. Jack is survived by his partner Marina; his former wife Janice; his daughter Lindsay and son-in-law Shanne, along with grandchildren Mavis and Madelyn; his daughter Dichelle; and his daughter-in-law Mary Thom, with grandson Hayden. Jack was a “go big or go home” kind of man. Whatever he took on, he did with boundless enthusiasm and zeal. He lived life on his own terms-honest, hardworking, principled, and wonderfully colourful. A natural storyteller, Jack could strike up a conversation with anyone and made friends wherever he went. His love of travel began early, backpacking through Europe as a young man and spending many years in Australia, Jack settled in Squamish, which he proudly called home for the remainder of his years.

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A celebratiion of life will be held at the Squamish Legion on January 4, 2026, 11-3pm. All are welcome. TThe family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr Jamieson and the compassionaate staff at Sea to Skyy Hospice for their care and kindness.

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CELEBRATIONS | SERVICES | COMMUNITY AND MORE...

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025 | 21

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFIEDS.SQUAMISHCHIEF.COM

Happy Holidays! The Squamish Chief Holiday Hours The office will be closed December 25th & 26th 2025 & January 1st 2026 With reduced hours on December 24th & 31st.

FT. Competitive Salary & Benefits. 2yrs+ kitchen man‐ agement experience. Oversee kitchen operations including: batch cooking for 40- 130, menu creation, hir‐ ing, ordering, scheduling, managing team. Experience with special diets. Job osted at

If you require assistants

please call – 604-892-9161 Editorial ext 45228 or Sales Ext 45230

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Full-Time Account Manager Location: North Shore, BC Company: North Shore News We have a rare opportunity to work at one of Canada’s best-read online news media companies, Lodestar Media. You will be working at North Shore News, a division of Lodestar Media. In this role, you’ll partner with local businesses to offer cutting-edge marketing solutions: programmatic advertising, social media advertising, SEO, sponsored content, and community display on our website – and yes, we still reach customers through our trusted newspaper as well. HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL DO: • Make outbound calls and proactively set up meetings with new and existing clients. • Use a consultative selling approach to plan and execute both digital and print advertising campaigns. • Build and maintain strong client relationships with exceptional customer service. • Achieve monthly, quarterly, and annual revenue targets. • Stay organized and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. WHAT YOU BRING: • Previous experience in sales, account management, or media/marketing is an asset. • Comfort with cold calling and in-person client meetings. • A goal-oriented mindset, positive attitude, and willingness to learn. • Strong communication, presentation, and organizational skills. • Ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines. • A valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle for client visits is required. HERE’S WHAT WE OFFER: Competitive salary + uncapped commission package. Comprehensive, competitive group health and welfare beneﬁts. Extensive onboarding, training, and ongoing support. INTERESTED? Please submit your cover letter and resume in confidence to Kaija Knox at kknox@lodestarmedia.ca

Employee Health & Wellness Plan available HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR – Minimum 5 years or 5,000 hours operating experience on excavator. Full-time, Monday – Friday. $33-$46 per hour. CONSTRUCTION LABOURER – Great opportunity to learn on-thejob. Stamina for physically demanding work and perseverance to brave inclement weather required. Previous experience preferred but not required. Training provided. $28-$33 per hour. PIPE LAYER – Minimum 5 years experience in civil construction. Full-time, Monday – Friday. $33-$43 per hour. TRUCK DRIVER – BCDL Class 1 or Class 3 with air brakes required. Manual transmission. 2 years experience preferred. $35-$41.50 per hour. CRUSHING & EARTHWORKS MANAGER – Must have experience with civil construction. $33-$46 per hour.

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22 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025

TAKE A BREAK

HOROSCOPE WEEK OF DEC 25, 2025 - DEC 31, 2025

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Certain vipers 5. Resort hotel 8. Inscribe 12. Bird-feeder treat 13. Heidi’s mountain 14. Song for one 15. Perceive sound 16. Youngster 17. Plug up 18. Modify copy 20. Finds a total 21. Acquire 24. Gab 26. First “M*A*S*H” colonel 27. Optimistic 31. Not home 32. Bind: hyph. 34. Alias initials 35. Blackboard wipers 37. Behaved

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39. Noah’s boat 40.Shiny 41. Hit a hole in one 44.Auction 45. Clothed 46. Maryland’s neighbor: abbr. 47. Line 51. Go on about 52. Salt Lake City athlete 53. Billiard sticks 54. One who watches 55. Exclamations of surprise 56. Sins

7. Liable 8. Evade 9. Informed 10. Dolt 11. Swine 19. Scale watcher 21. Clarinet’s relative 22. Smudge 23. So long, in London: 2 wds. 24. “____ Are So Beautiful” 25. Horrify 27. Stags and bucks 28. Domino or Waller 29. Hawaiian instruments 30. Lord’s wife 33. Exasperate 36. More melancholy 38. Put the squeeze on 40.High winds 41. Farm measure 42. Ali, once 43. Icicle’s spot 44.Rogen of “Superbad” 46. Penn and Teller, e.g. 48. “____ House” (song) 49. Part of rpm 50. Tee preceder Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling

ARIES March 21-April 19

LEO July 23-Aug. 22

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21

You’ll be surprised by certain innovative ideas this week. Your contagious enthusiasm will inspire everyone to join in on your projects. You’ll manage to organize an unforgettable and authentic celebration.

Holding a family lottery could be a fun way to wrap up the holidays and plan a special trip. No matter what you choose to do, you’ll have a great time and show your loved ones how generous you are.

You’ll be in the spotlight this week. You have a knack for making people laugh with your sarcastic and witty comments. You may even receive applause, boosting your confidence.

TAURUS April 20-May 20

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22

A secret will be revealed at a party. You’ll be sensitive to the situation and deliver a poignant speech that resonates with all the guests. You’ll be asked to help with an unexpected work emergency; it may even happen in the middle of the night.

You’ll spend part of the week caring for your children or elderly parents. This will give you the opportunity to recharge your batteries. The calm and solitude of your home will spark your imagination.

This is a good time for reflection and introspection. You’ll have the opportunity to recognize both your successes and failures while opening your mind to a deeper form of spirituality.

GEMINI May 21-June 20

Because of your ability to unite people who don’t often see eye to eye, you’ll be a key part of a big success that will leave a lasting impression. If you’re single, a colleague will take this chance to try to get closer to you.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb. 18

You’ll be very articulate and committed to ensuring LIBRA Sept. 23-Oct. 22 everything runs smoothly this Avoid getting involved in family week. Although you might not always express yourself squabbles, especially if they tactfully, you’ll be correct. The don’t involve you directly. most important thing is to However, if you do choose to intervene, you’ll play referee and achieve good results. may be able to ease tensions.

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20

At a work party, you’ll be full CANCER June 21-July 22 of energy and might even help You still have lots to do to finish serve food and drinks. The organizing a memorable event. enchanting atmosphere of the Don’t let your time slip away. festive season will strengthen Make sure you’re well prepared your romantic relationship, to celebrate the arrival of the bringing you even closer together. new year in style.

Even if you’re on a tight budget, your end-of-year celebrations will be unforgettable, thanks to your creative ideas and determination. You’ll also show your partner how much you love them, creating warmth and closeness within your relationship.

SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3 x 3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3 x 3 box.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS:

DOWN 1. Fireplace residue 2. “Peggy ____ Got Married” 3. Garden vegetable 4. Band of color 5. Soft fabric 6. Secret plan The Parish of

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The spirit of celebration lives on all year long for the Squamish Days Team, made possible by the continued support of the incredible Squamish community and everyone who helps keep the Squamish Days Festival a thriving and cherished tradition. We extend our warmest wishes to those in Squamish and beyond for a joyful holiday season and look ahead to 2026 with optimism for good health, happiness, and exciting new adventures. In 2025, we proudly continued celebrating a 68-year legacy—one that grows stronger each year thanks to the generosity of our community, the commitment of our athletes, and the passion of our volunteers, sponsors, spectators, and supporters. As always, we look forward to giving back to the community groups who are essential to delivering this four-day celebration. Squamish Days remains teer-run, run non-profit non profit association, association with ith 100% of festival festi al proceeds retur returned to local non-profits. a volunteer

HHappy ppy Holidays H y Squamish Sq

and a heartfelt thank you to everyone listed below who helped make another remarkable year possible as well as the countless other volunteers who truly make Squamish Days a community event. 2025 Community 2 mmunity Groups Squamish Rotary – Rotary Beef BBQ S Squamish Elks No. 119 – Peter Harris Pancake Breakfast Squamish Valley Equestrian Association – Axe Throw Invitational and Concessions Howe Sound Curling Club – Parking and Gates Royal Canadian Legion Branch 277 – Bed Races Howe Sounds Marine Rescue Society – Parade Britannia Beach Volunteer Fire Fighters’ Association – First Aid/Medical 2025 Board/Committee Members & Event Heads President, Festival Coordinator & Sponsorship - Jacqulin McNicol Vice President & Timber Training Coordinator - Meghan Aasen Hall Show Secretary - Rebecca Bolkowy Treasurer, IT - Dara Sklar Secretary & Soft Sponsorship - Lurene McNicol Director & Souvenirs – Chelsea Hurford Director - Marie Grindlay Director – Matt Little Director - Russ Robertson Grounds Logistic Specialist - Rob Drygas Show Chairman and Head Official - Dale Addis Show Officials – Sean Lumb, Larry Leblanc, Scott Campbell, Kris Markgraf and John Hurford Show Emcee - Armand Hurford Show Office - Debbie Patterson Events Wood Crew – Stirling Hart, Stacy Bell, Chris Miller, Rob Drygas, Todd MacMillan, Dave Stitt, Darren Doak Sound/Audio – Chris Pettingill Head Grounds Crew – Kirby Reid Tree Act - Brian Bartow Photographers – Shane Reside Head Timers - Serena Karwatski, Stephanie Cascanette and Johanna Proudfoot Head of Loggers Lounge/Beer Garden - Tricia Auton and Fiona Von Hahn Loggers Sponsor Lounge – Pat Couture, Paige Couture, Lynne Bell, Carol Eberhard, Amy Fast, Elise Venekamp, Kees Venekamp, Jennifer Woudstra and Trina Zanni Kettle Boil and Lumberjack Chili Challenge – Tricia Auton and Lurene McNicol Kids Festival - Shannon White Competitor and Volunteer Dinner - Alma Lewis Social Media - Dara Sklar and Jacqulin McNicol Timber Training – Nick and Meghan Hall

2025 Sponsors Chief Forester Woodfibre LNG Ops Manager Sea to Sky Gondola Wood Boss AJ Forest Products Alta Lake Electric Baker Tilly Black Tusk Helicopter Fortis BC Energy Inc Husqvarna Group JR Transport Sqomish Forestry LP Triton Automotive and Industrial West-Barr Contracting High Rigger Badger Industries Coastal Mountain Excavations Ltd. Greg Gardner Motors Inland Truck & Equipment Stilhavn Real Estate Services Ashlaur Trading Oceanview Forest Products Sureus-Murphy Joint Venture Waypoint Insurance Squamish GFL Environmental District of Squamish Skytech Yarding Bull Bucker Alpine Axeceleration Forestry Ltd. Backcountry Brewing

BCT Fencing Fraserwood Industries Ltd. Fountain Tire Hard Rock Construction High Tower Truck and Crane The Josh’s Kiewit Howe Sound Equipment Infinity Pacific Stewardship Group Ltd. Local Roots Miller Capilano Pepe’s Chophouse Pocklington Building Systems Sleemans Brewing Strait & Narrow Squamish Chief Squamish Valley Golf Club Stong’s Market Sunbelt Rentals Total Marketing and Consultingg Inc. Hook Tender Lafarge Canada Mountain FM Polygon Homes Squamish Community Forest Squamish Station The Truck Loggers Association Chokerman Atlantic Power Cloverdale Paint CVC Domino’s Squamish Kal Tire Fisher Wood Products Save on Foods Squamish

Solutions Pest Control Sq Squamish Chaser 99 North Cannabis Aiki Daily Airhouse Squamish Alice & Brohm Arrow Wood Games Bosley’s Brennan Park Recreation Center Cedar Creek Wellness Center Cloud Gymnastics Executive Suites Hotel Firetail Pets Fox & Oak Freshii Kaos Kids Nester’s Market Squamish Ninja Gym Panago Squamish PEAK Family Pets Purebread Random Clothing Rocky Mountain Sports Camp Roundhouse Sandman Hotel Special FX Hair Design Starbucks Squamish Sunflower Bakery Taste of Saigon White Spot

THANK YOU TO THE HUNDREDS OF VOLUNTEERS WHO COME OUT EACH YEAR TO CONTINUE THE LEGACY!!!!!!