Living Wage report shows single adults are ‘the largest group living in poverty’ nationally and provincially
LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca D
o you make $28 an hour and live in Squamish? That’s the average dollar per hour required to make a living wage, according to this year’s Living Wage B.C report in conjunction with BC Policy Solutions. It’s the second highest living wage in the province, with Whistler the only community exceeding Squamish to the tune of $29.60. Both require higher earnings than Metro Vancouver, where residents on a weighted averageneed to earn $27.85 per hour. Anastasia French, managing director for Living Wage BC, says the cost of living has everyday
WAGE: Continued on2
PHOTO BY DAVID BUZZARD
FLAG RAISING: Mayor Armand Hurford speaks
will remain in place through Nov. 20, Transgender Day of Remembrance.
consequences for hundreds of thousands.
“There are over 700,000 workers across British Columbia who are stuck, that are not earning the amount needed in order to pay for food, rent and basic essentials, and many of these workers are women and racialized,” she said.
Squamish and Whistler’s cost increases represent a 4.6% and 5.4% respective increase compared to last year’s wage calculations by the organization. The living wage in town is $10.15 more than the provincially mandated minimum wage.
A living wage is “the hourly rate that a full-time worker must earn to cover essential expenses, avoid chronic financial stress and participate in the social, civic and cultural life of their community. This rate supports a basic, decent standard of living, but without many of the comforts or extras that many may take for granted.”
Earninga living wage doesn’t include funds to pay for student loans or credit card payments, retirement savings or costs to care for senioror disabled family members.
New to this year’s calculation, which has been going since 2008, is calculating the living wage for single parents and single adults who live alone. According to the report, single adults who live alone are the “largest group living in poverty” nationally and provincially, slightly higher than children in single-parent households.
One significant impact for this demographic is the lack of government transfers. Families or sole care givers with a child receive government assistance in the form of child care and dental benefits, but the authors say one of the only government transfers for this group was the recently quashed carbon tax.
CHILD CARE DRIVING COSTS UP LOCALLY
Child care previously was the number one driver of expenses when the group first began
publishing research in 2008 Since then, government funding for child care has eased the strain on some families, with federal and provincial transfers and $10-a-day daycare. Despite the increase in provincial and federal funding, many families are left with untenably long waitlists and the cost is still out of reach for many families And for Squamish families, child care is actually one of the drivers of the higher living wage calculation.
Carol Coffey, Squamish Community Foundation board director, said part of the
reason may be connected to more up-to-date data collection than other years she’s worked on the report, but the exact reasons why remain unclear The foundation works with Living Wage BC and BC Policy Solutions to calculate the local living wage.
“It’s certainly very expensive to pay for child care in Squamish, and I’m not sure why that is. It could be from the cost of commercial rent, and just the high cost of operating child care,” she said.
When parents can’t pay for child care, they’re “forced to choose between reducing the hours they can work or relying on unlicensed child care providers who charge more and are not eligible for provincial fee reductions,” according to the report.
SKY-HIGH HOUSING COSTS
According to the Squamish Foundation, rent has increased 24% in just three years in the windy town, from $1,335 fora one bedroom apartment in 2021 to $1,658 in 2025 And while there is some indication rent is “stabilizing or decreasing,” the authors note that trend can’t be confirmed locally when the report was published.
Housing prices are so unattainable in Squamish, it’s not uncommon for people to choose to be van dwellers instead.
“There’s a lot of people, and not just single people, but families who are living in shared accommodation, rentinga room in a house. We’ve even seen that with families, where we may have a family or a single parent renting a master bedroom in a larger house [to afford rent],” Coffey said
These housing situations aren’t captured in available data, because rental data comes from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation rental surveys which Coffey said don’t account for these housingmodels.
THE FOOD FACTOR
Food costs have risen by 3.6% this year alone, leading to individuals and families having to make tough calls on what they can
bring to the dinner table.
“There are lots of reasons why food costs more Some of it comes down to the fact climate change is ruining crops. Some of it is supply chain issues Tariffs certainly don’t help that kind of thing. But at the end of the day, those big grocery chains, they’re squeezing farmers, they’re squeezing food producers. They’re squeezing the workers who are working at the checkouts, and they’re squeezing us as consumers. And there’s a monopoly of them,” French said
According to a 2023 study by the Competition Bureau, an independent agency that regulates competition to benefit consumers and businesses in Canada, there are three big Canadian grocers that own the bulk of chains—Loblaws, Sobeys, and Metro. While there are some global pressures influencing food prices, the bureau found these grocery giants have been increasing their profits long before increased input costs, recent wars and supply chain issues. “I think the federal government needs to take a stronger line withthem,” French said.
SOLUTION? PAY LIVING WAGE
While the authors say many solutions can be implemented to ease the cost of living throughout the province, including increasing child care benefits for people as the living wage increases, more housing supply that’s geared to income, expanding affordable childcare, stronger vacancy controls preventing renovictions, diverse food purchasing sources and companies that don’t gouge customers, the biggest impact comes when workers are paid living wages.
“Government at all levels should become a living wage employer, put their money where their mouth is, and make sure that they’re paying all their direct staff and their contracted workers a living wage,” French said, noting living wage increases have direct benefits on the local economy and quality of life for workers.
GOT NEWS?
Email your news tip or story idea to: jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca ipace@lodestarmedia.ca
FUNDRAISER LAUNCHED TO HELP GRIEVING SQUAMISH MOTHER AND FAMILY
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist resident and child care director Mahsa Hedayatzadeh, who is mourning thesudden and heartbreaking loss of her young daughter
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
Mahsa Hedayatzadeh has touched hundreds of lives in Squamish, and nowher supporters are hoping those folks will be able to give back during a tragic and dark period
Hedayatzadeh’s eight-year-old daughter died after a fall from a balcony in a highrise in Yaletown on Nov. 11
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support Hedayatzadeh in the short- and long-term.
Hedayatzadeh, who lives in Squamish, is on leave from her job as director of Willowbrae Academy, which offers infant, toddler, and pre-school programs, as she is expecting her second child.
The academy’s CEO notesher impact on so many in her role at the school and at another childcare facility in Squamish previously.
“She has touched—in a very positive way—many, many families in Squamish,” said Geoff Stollery, CEO of Willowbrae Academy’s Langley and Squamish locations, adding that the school has 100 families
“So Mahsa is deeply respected and admired in that community,”he said, adding that she is part of the fabric of Squamish
Of course, she is going through deep, unimaginable grief right now.
Stollery said Hedayatzadeh’s daughter who we are choosing not to name at this time was very outgoing andjoyful, much like her mother. She hada “very, very wonderful energy and
brightness abouther,” he said. “Very joyful, very happy.”
He recalled a memory he has of the little girl at the grandopening of the Squamish Willowbrae academy location in September, which the child attended with her mom.
“Each classroom was set up like a station. We had an indoor bouncy castle, food, crafts... And she was in the room where all the little kids were getting the fake tattoos,” he recalled.
“She was going to make sure that every little kid hada tattoo. That’s just kind of who she
was. She wasn’t one to sit in the corner and be shy,”he added, with a soft chuckle at the recollection.
“You know, she was very much like her mother that way—very outgoing and positive A very, very sweet, sweet and caring child.”
Stollery said that Hedayatzadeh hasa sound support system around her. Still, support for the GoFundMe is greatlyneeded so they don’t have to worry about making ends meet during this traumatic period.
“Funds raised will help cover funeral costs,
In termsof what people can dootherthan sharingtheir condolences, is really just through GoFundMe and respecting her privacy at this time.
SUKHI SANDHU
daily expenses, and provide the space and time they need to mourn andheal,” the campaign page reads.
Sukhi Sandhu, who organized the fundraising campaign, is a business partner at the academy, and all funds raised will go directly to Hedayatzadeh.
“In terms of what people can do other than sharing their condolences, is really just through GoFundMe and respecting her privacy at this time,” Stollery said
“There’s just no words for it,” he said, of the tragedy.
The campaign is aiming to raise $100,000 As of Nov. 18, it has raised almost $37,000.
Those who wish to donate can go to “Supporting Mahsa Hedayatzadeh” on GoFundMe.
PHOTO BY PEOPLEIMAGES/ ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS
Those who wish to donate to support Mahsa Hedayatzadeh can go to “Supporting Mahsa Hedayatzadeh” on GoFundMe.
BASE JUMPER RESCUED FROM SLHANAY MOUNTAIN
A total of 30 members responded to the Nov. 11 call fora stranded BASE jumper, who is reportedly doing well after being helicoptered offa small rock feature
LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca
ABASE jumper who struck a cliff face on Slhanay Mountain Monday evening was rescued in a complex, hours-long operation involving rope teams, ahelicopter hoist anda nighttime hike into challenging terrain, according to Squamish Search and Rescue (SAR).
Squamish SAR spokesperson Christy Allan said the call initially came from a bystander, followed shortly by the man’s friends dialing 911.
“From what we know,he jumped and then ended up doing a 90-degree turn and hit the rock face,” they said.“His parachute collapsed and he started to fall. But the parachute caught on some rocks—that’s really what saved him from plummeting further.”
The BASE pilot, Zach Mayne, managed to scramble onto a small rocky ledge and free himself from the tangled parachute, preventing the wind from blowing him off the outcropping before rescuers arrived.
“That’s wherehe was when we reached him,” Allan said.
TECHNICAL RESCUE IN DIFFICULT TERRAIN
A SAR rope technician was lowered over the edge to access the Mayne.
“We did bring him up to the ledge,” Allan explained. “It was the hike in from there that would have required a stretcher carry, and it wasa really complex hike out. It would have taken hours.”
Slhanay’snetwork of steep, forested trails and boulder-strewn terrain can be tricky even in daylight; SAR saida stretcher evacuation would have been “really long and arduous.”
Instead, Talon Helicopters conducted a hoist extraction once SAR crews had moved the injured man into position.
“It wasa complex rescue,” Allan said. “We used our rope team—a highly skilled group. It tooka lot of members, and it was dark and cold. It gets dark so early now, so that’s something for people to keep in mind when heading outdoors.”
SAR confirmed Mayne “had lower-leg injuries,” was conscious, and “really cold,” but able to communicate withthe rescue team.
Crews were called out shortly after 4:30 p.m. and wrapped up just after midnight.
HOW COMMON ARE BASE JUMPING RESCUES?
Squamish sees two or three BASE-related rescues most years.
“Over the last five years, we’ve done a couple of BASE jumping tasks each year,” Allan noted.
The team also has several members with aerial sports experience, who have been expanding SAR’s understanding of the sport.
“Justa couple of weeks ago, we had two members lead a training session for the whole team Having their expertise is phenomenal.”
With temperatures dropping and daylight fading earlier, SAR is urging caution.
“The weather is changing. It’s winter in the mountains, and daylight is really short now,” Allan said.“Peopleneed to be prepared for the unexpected.”
SAR also encouraged anyone recreating in steep terrain—including BASE jumpers—to carry proper gear, know their limits, and communicate plans with partners.
Full disclosure: Liz McDonald has socialized with Zach Mayne. As sometimeshappens in community journalism, it’s not always possible to avoid writing about people we know.
PHOTO VIA SAR INSTAGRAM
SAR volunteers during the mission to help Zach Mayne.
ALMOST 200 SQUAMISH NATION DOGS ARE NOW REGISTERED
There’sa campaign on Squamish lands in the interest of community safety, and their dogs
INA PACE
Local Journalism Initiative reporter
Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) member dog owners, keep your eye out. You may geta visit from the Nation’s Community Safety Team (CST).
The Nation CST has been registering dogs and their pups since August, which according to the Nation’s website is now over 173 on Squamish lands as a whole, as of Nov. 4 —“a huge success,” the website reads.
To date, 39 homes in Squamish Valley have been visited, and 79 dogs registered, which is most in the Valley.
The CST were most recently finishing door-to-door rounds on the Stawamus reserve near Totem Hall.
The Public Safety Department website encourages owners to register their dogs out of safety concerns for the wider community. As with any other stray or roaming animals, animal neglect, noise issues—such as barking—and aggression is taken into consideration.
It should be noted this campaign is for dogs only, and does not apply to cats or other animals. Furthermore, registration makes it easier to identify the dog and return them home to their respective owners.
Registration is free, after which dog owners receivea collar tag, valid until the end of next year. The tags bear the dog’s name and the owner’s phone number.
Nation folks may register their dogs on the Animal Control page or report their concerns. For emergency situations, contact 911, and for non-emergencies contact public_safety@ squamish.net or 604-982-9938
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.
BATTLE OF THEBUSINESSES:Squamish businesses challenging themselvestoraise fundsfor theircommunity! Organize afundraiser, getyourstaffand clientsinvolved, and have fun!Who will yourbusinesschallengethisyear! Businesspick-up will be Tuesday, December11th.
If yourbusinesswould liketocollectdonationsplease register at squamishchristmas@gmail.com
•Mail: Community Christmas Care, PO Box516, Squamish BCV8B0A4
We will be acceptingnew toys, gift cardsand cash donations.
Formoreinformation: go to communitychristmascare.com or facebook at Squamish Community Christmas Care
www.communitychristmascare.com
PHOTO BY EDB3_16/ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS A Squamish dog on a hike
PHOTO BY AAFREEN ARORA
SPECTACULAR SQUAMISH: Though winter is several weeks away, Squamish has already had a fair dusting of snow.
SQUAMISH COMMUNITY FOREST REINFORCES COMMITMENT TO CULTURAL VALUES
At a recent public open house, the Squamish Community Forest unveiled its vision for sustainable land use, cultural preservation, and wildfire mitigation over the next five years
INA PACE
Local Journalism Initiative reporter
How can we ensure ahealthy forest and happy communities, all whilst abiding by land use agreements for the economy?
Such were some of the questions among folks who attended the Squamish Community Forest’s 2025 public open house, on Nov. 13 at Howe Sound Inn& Brewing.
At the event, a presentation was delivered by the Community Forest’s representatives, with opportunities for questions, and group discussion.
WHAT IS THE SQUAMISH COMMUNITY FOREST, ANDWHAT DOES IT DO?
The Squamish Community Forest functions ona Community Forest Agreement (CFA) and equal shareholding between Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and District of Squamish
This was their first ever partnership, as Squamish mayor and Community Forest chair Armand Hurford confirmed.
According to the Community Forest’s website,
CFAs give the holder exclusive rights to harvest timber on a specific land base.
“At its core, community forestry is about [managing] local forests… to reflect local community values and priorities,” the website reads.
“[CFAs are] the most contentious and challenging to operatenext to communities,” Hurford affirmed, in opening the discussion. The discussion that followed was centred around the sustainability and balance of cultural and environmental values.
WHAT EXACTLY ARE THE VALUES AT STAKE?
Examples of the values discussed were recreation, wildlife and ecosystems, viewscapes, and cultural/spiritual sites. The mitigation of wildfire risks, as well as the growth and harvest rates of timber were also discussed as to how they can be made socially and ecologically appropriate. The alignment of these values is known as “innovative silviculture.”
WHAT ARE THE SOLUTIONS?
This year, the Community Forest has been givena $40,000 grant from the Silviculture Innovation Program (SIP) to implement silviculture in collaboration with the Nation’s Rights and Title and Cultural teams—a part of the Community Forest’s imminent five-year plan.
Project co-ordinator Sarah Weber explained the science behind the implementation.
She said the SIP’s implementation will involve forest thinning—reducing dense forest understory, and removing low dead branches—to improve resilience, and reduce wildfire risk, which is largely generated by people’s presence on the land.
She explained that June’s wildfire at Dryden Creek in particular has highlighted theneed for this mitigation, and that the Community Forest is currently co-ordinatinga research project with the University of British Columbia (UBC) to see how thinning can be done most ecologically, which sites to prioritize, and how organic matter can be used or left in different forms.
Hurford confirmed that the solutions will be site-specific.
SERVING WITH TWO-EYED SEEING
The planned thinning will be supported by the Nation’s ways of knowing in forest management as identified in the Xay Temíxw (Sacred Land) Land Use Plan The Nation will, for example, be able to determine which culturally significant plants ought to be maintained and developed. The Community Forest’s website describes this as a two-eyed seeing approach.
Nation representatives attending theopen house, such as forest specialist Brian George,
described forestry as a “big priority” for the Nation.
The Nation’s Christine Baker voiced concerns about harvesting and how many Nation community members are being consulted, suggesting the Nation should have precedence in, for example, harvesting culturally significant plants with medicinal properties.
Baker also inquired about the forest’s overall health in spite of recreational activity and commercial timber harvesting.
“Our primary goal is to understand who we serve,” Hurford responded, explaining that the Community Forest recognizes areas of cultural significance as part of its framework, and that past open events have been held at locations such as Totem Hall on the Stawamus reserve.
“We want to connect with Nation members more directly. It’s a matter of growing into it,” Weber said.
Weber explained that the Community Forest is looking to set up more education initiatives in continuing their community engagement for 2026, such as inviting Nation children to come out onto the land and talk about its significance.
She said cultural walks with the Nation are also being considered, as well as a review of the amount of trees the Community Forest is licensed to cut—currently 20,000 cubic metres.
“[This year’s harvest was] driven by community, rather than infrastructure [we are on]a learning curve onhow to operationalize—what to leave and what to take,” Weber said, adding that the Community Forest plans to avoidoperating on recreational areas over thenext five years.
WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
Questions from other community members included concerns over the utilization of profits, and how the value of timber is weighed against the cultural values discussed.
“The board is developing what will be supported,” Hurford said, explaining that surplus dividends between the Nation and the District have been allocated to causes such as mountain bike trail maintenance, and various hospital funds.
“We are trying to make our way through these types of things.”
The Squamish Community Forest spans 11,303 hectares east and south of Squamish, entirely on the Nation’s unceded and traditional territory.
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.
PHOTO BY INA PACE/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Mayor Armand Hurford looks on during the Community Forest presentation Nov. 13.
CHIEFTAIN& CRASH HOTEL IS FOR SALE FOR $12 MILLION
First opening in January of 1958, the Chieftain, and its well-known landmark neon sign sits on Cleveland Avenue
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
Want to buy a local landmark?
Squamish’s Chieftain & Crash Hotel is for sale
International commercial real estate advisor Avison Young announced Nov. 13 that the Chieftain, which includes the Crash Hotel, is on the market for $12 million.
In anews release, Avison Young says thisis “a rare opportunity to see one of four downtown Squamish hospitality properties on the market since 2021.”
Last sold in 2018, the building has undergone “extensive revitalization” since.
Firstopening in January of 1958, the Chieftain, and its well-known landmark neon sign, sits on Cleveland Avenue in downtown Squamish
Crash Hotel, with 27 customized hotel rooms, beganoperations within the Chieftain in Squamish in 2019.
“With only 10 hotel/motel properties in Squamish, the Chieftain& Crash Hotel is one ofonly four located in theheart of the city,” the release states, adding that the property has “flexible site zoning.”
“The location offers meaningful value-add potential for expansion, repositioning, or comprehensive redevelopment—including airspace and vertical expansion rights to add four or five storeys ofhospitality or residential,” the release states.
The Crash Hotel brand and intellectual property are not part of the sales process, according to Avison Young, though it says brand licensing and management agreement
Withonly 10 hotel/motel propertiesin Squamish,the Chieftain&Crash Hotelisoneofonly fourlocated in the heartofthe city.
AVISON YOUNGNEWSRELEASE
structuring may be considered
“This is a remarkable investment opportunity to owna piece of the thriving hospitality market in Squamish—at a time when the province is seeing an upswing in tourism. A discerning owner will see the profitability here, in a hotel real estate market that is closelyheld, with only three hotels trading in the last 10 years,” said Bijan Lalji, of Avison Young, in a release.
Avison Young, at www.avisonyoung.ca, can provide more details for interested parties.
Workshop (19yrs+) Thursday, November27 7–8:15pm at The55ActivityCentre Underthe expertguidance ofprofessionalflorist Bernadette, you’llcraftyour very ownbeautiful holiday wreathto takehomeand showcaseyourholiday spirit.Registrationcloses one week prior to workshop to allow forthe rightamount offreshmaterials/greens to be pre-ordered. Nodrop-ins.
December10,6–8pm atHoweSoundInnandBrewing
LetsTalkSquamish.ca/budget-2026
Forhours andschedulesvisit
NEW MEMBERS BREATHE LIFE INTO LOCAL ICONIC PIPE AND DRUM BAND
A cherished part of Squamish tradition, the town’s iconic pipe band found its rhythm again—just in time for Remembrance Day
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
It is hard to imagine Squamish’s Remembrance Day ceremony without the powerful sounds of the bagpipes and drums to start it off and round it up
However, the Black Tusk Caledonia Pipes & Drums Band saw its numbers dwindle after COVID, as members left or moved away
Part of the issue had been finding an affordable practice space for the band, in a town that was now bursting at the seams, with space rare and affordability even more so
But the band has seen a resurgence of sorts, with enthusiastic new members joining its ranks.
Some local familieshave been foundational to the band’s continued existence over the years, including the Yaky/Crombie family, the Mackays, the LeBlancs, and the Bilns.
Now, other last names are joining the fray.
“We’ve taken on a fewnew members and are training up some new drummers, anda few of theold members have sort of come back into the fold,” said Devin Biln, moments after the Nov. 11 ceremony at Stan Clarke Park, where nine of its 12 members had performed—five pipers and four drummers.
One missing member was at the ceremony, but in his role as an RCMP officer.
Another piper was up in Whistler participating in the resort’s Remembrance Day, at the request of the municipality.
The band also hasa moreregular practice space these days.
“The Railway Museum of BC, they’re very generously offering us some amazing practice space, and in turn we’re going to do some volunteer work for them and some bagpiping as well,” Biln said.
Bag piper Heather Mosher is one of the band’s newest members. She moved to Squamish 10 years ago and sought to join the band then However, at the time, the group lacked a space to practice and were reduced in numbers.
“Devin reached out at the beginning of [this] summer to everybody who’s ever reached out to the pipe band wanting to play, and said, ‘We’re trying to spin up a band this year, and we really want to field the band for the Remembrance Day events’,” Mosher recalled.
“I was like, you know what, I’mhere for it, and I would love to get the pipes out and get them working again.”
After the band performed at the Remembrance Day ceremony, Mosher’s excitement was palpable.
“It is so much fun to be a part of an event like this and play for people and just see how the pipes impact people It’s a very emotional instrument,” she said
More veteran player, Aaron Lawton has played with the band at eight or nine Remembrance Day events, but the experience hasn’t lost its power for him.
“It’s really exciting to be in a small town and be able to contribute to Canada Day festivities, to Remembrance Day as a piper,” he said
“We’ve had some pretty wet days We’ve had to wear our big capes that are sort of ponchos that
betweenprivate parties. Darts must notdirectlyorindirectly identifyanindividual or business.
keep our pipes dry and our kilts dry. But it’s nevera question of whether we’re going to be here.”
Brandon Biln, Devin’s brother, is the newest drummer of the band He also serves as its communications manager and head recruiter. He saidhe hopes the revived band’s enthusiasm was seen at the Remembrance Day event.
“It just seemed a great way to honour veterans and serving persoˆnnel now and past, so really it was the community that made it feel good,” he said
Biln said the band is always looking to add even more members.
They practice every two weeks on Thursdays.
“If you’ve played bagpipes or drums and would love to come and join us again, that would be amazing, and if you’ve been interested in learning, we have members who are willing to teach, committed learners,” he said. “We’re all set up, we’ve got lots of equipment.”
The band can be seen at many local events, including Canada Day, Squamish Days Loggers Sports, the Brackendale Fall Fair, and next, Robbie Burns Day, among others.
Anyone interested in joining or supporting the band can contact them through their revived Facebook page, Black Tusk Caledonia Pipes & Drums Band.
SENIORMEN IN SQUAMISH ARECONNECTING, CONTRIBUTING,AND THRIVING AT THESQUAMISH MEN’SSHED�AND THEY AREINVITING THECOMMUNITY TO SEE IT FIRSTHAND.WEARE CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL MEN’SDAY ANDHIGHLIGHTINGTHE POSITIVE IMPACT OF MEN’SVOLUNTEERISM.
Visitorstothe Open Shed will have theopportunityto:
Reproduction of anymaterial containedinthispublicationis expresslyforbiddenwithouttheprior written consentofthe publisher.
EDITORIAL
WHOISACTINGAS THE MAYOR?
One of themostcommonconspiracytheories wehearand getasked aboutatThe Squamish Chiefis“Whereisthe mayor?”
Even people whoweknowwatch council quite closelyhaveasked us aboutit.
This comesfromthe fact that thereare “acting mayors,” whofillin for theactualmayor.
Amember of thepublicwill see acouncilloratan event, sayan opening, andthatofficialwill announce they arethe “actingmayor,” meaning, they areinplace of theelected mayor.
Rumoursthenstart to swirluntil they reachusin thenewsroom.
Thething is,thisisall standard operating procedure.
Unlike most of us in theprivate sector, themayor hassomeone whocanreplace himathis job.
This week at theNov.18regular councilmeeting, theacting mayor schedule wasset forthe period of January,2026toNovember, 2026—whenthe next electedcouncil will take over.
Theschedulegoeslikethis:
-Coun. Eric Andersen -January andOctober
-Coun. John French -Februaryand July
-Coun. JennaStoner-Marchand August
-Coun. ChrisPettingill -April andSeptember
-Coun. Lauren Greenlaw -May andNovember
-Coun. Andrew Hamilton -June
Thefactis, in B.C.,municipalcouncilsare required by provincialgovernmentlegislation to appointanactingmayor or ascheduleofacting mayors to servewhenthe mayorisabsentor otherwiseunabletoact.
If both themayor andthe chosen acting mayor cannot rule at ameeting,the council members in attendancemustselectanothermembertofillthe role.
Allthistosay,there’s no slight of hand to have an actingmayor.
Like allofus, themayor can’tworkseven daysa week,can getill,takevacation or be otherwise engaged.
Thesameprocess appliestoregionaldistrict boards,likethe Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, whicharerequired to appointavice-chairtoserve when thechair is absent or ill.
Anotherinteresting tidbit folksmight not know is that if anelected official—councillorormayor—is absent from four consecutivelyscheduled regular meetings or for60days, whicheverislonger, they are disqualified from holdingoffice—unless theabsence is duetoillness or injury,or thepersonhas permission from thecouncil or boardtobeabsent.
No shadetothose whodidn’tknowthese rules though,wearen’ttaughtthe insand outs of municipal—or anylevel of government—procedure in school.
Journalists only learnitwhentheycover council.
HOWSQUAMISH’SACTIVELIFESTYLE SUPPORTS MICROBIOME HEALTH
YOUTHCOLUMN AUNI DAYTON
HereinSquamish, whereoutdoor adventures abound andhealthisa wayoflife, well-being isn’tjustabout exercise andeatingwell, it’s also aboutthe trillionsofmicrobiota in your gut.
Recent research revealsthatgut health is deeply connectedtomentalwell-being, immunity,and even earlychildhood development, andSquamish’s nature-based lifestylemay be theperfectway to supportit.
Building on foundational work of AnnM.O’Hara andFergusShanahan, whocalledthe gutmicrobiotaa “virtualorgan within an organ,”newer studiesshow that this ecosystemdoesn’t just help digest food,it communicates directly with thebrain.
ZuzannaLewandowska-Pietruska explainsthat “neuroactive substancessecreted by bacteria (...) influenceour emotions,cognition,and pain management.In ordertoimprove your gutmicrobiomeLund University recommends physical activity andexposure to nature,making Squamish theperfect placetosupport your gut biomeand,byextension,yourmood.
Lund University researchersrepeatthese ideaswhile noting that physical andoutdoor activity is important to maintain ahealthy anddiverse microbiome. Also,adultsaren’tthe only ones whocan gain these benefits.A2024study by Annika Ljungfound that “early exposure to animalsand naturalenvironments introduces beneficial anaerobicbacteria,”which help
shapethe gutecosystem during importantdevelopmental windows. This canleadtoimprovedimmune developmentand astrongerimmunesystemfor the entirety of thechild’s life.
Pets canalsohaveapowerfulpositiveimpactongut health,especiallyinearly life. AccordingtoAnnika Ljung, children raised in householdswithpetsor children whospend time on farmstendtodevelop more diversemicrobiotaand show lowerrates of allergies. Theresearchers statethat“earlyexposureto animalsintroducesbeneficialanaerobic bacteria,” whichhelps shapearesilient immune system.This aligns with findings from O’Hara, Afzaal,and others, whomention theimportanceofmicrobial diversityto long-termhealth. In petfriendlycommunities like Squamish,where dogs areapartofmanyfamilies andanimalinteractionsare common,these microbial benefits have likely been unsung heroes,working hard to improveyourhealth.
Research conductedbyMuhammadAfzaal reinforces that “gut microbiotaplays acrucial role in maintaininghosthealthand preventing disease.”With Squamish’s emphasis on active living,environmental connection,and healthylocal food options, communitymembers maybeunknowingly creatinga protective microbialshieldagainst illness. Squamish’s lifestyleprovidesample opportunitiesto take care of your internal ecosystem. As Ihave mentioned, exercise enhances microbialdiversity, whichinturnsupportsthe gut-brainconnectionand emotionalregulation. Additionally,spendingtime outdoors,suchaswandering forest trails,lakeside walks, andgardening,exposes youtodiverse healthy microbes.Eatinglocally andseasonallyand
(We have good feelings that we live,wework and we play on the lands of the Squamish Nation)
YOUTH: Continued from 10
maintaininga fibre-rich diet feeds beneficial bacteria, promoting overall health and well-being. Including pets in your lifestyle allows your puppy or cat to assist with your physical and emotional wellbeing. In short, Squamish’s lifestyle allows your microbiome to thrive, supporting immunity and mental health.
Auni Dayton is a Squamish teen and Squamish Chief intern, who loves her microbiome.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
FACILITIES ‘WOEFULLY INADEQUATE’
Editor’s note: This letter was sent to the District of Squamish and copied to The Squamish Chief. The pool is currently operating with reduced hours—closed Sundays and Mondays—due to a shortage of lifeguards and swim instructors
I am frustrated with the poor management of our recreation facilities, particularly our pool, already too small for our population.
I am an 82-year-old with mobility and cardiac issues andI swim twice weekly to maintain my independence The multiple closures for maintenance, strikes, and “accidents” this year have impacted many of us adversely.
Now, I find that withthe poolopening finally we are losing access for two days a week.
The overcrowding already present will be exacerbated greatly.
The management and planning of our
LETTERS POLICY
facility is woefully inadequate.
I do not think being fobbed off with an explanation of inadequate staff is acceptable, that should have been foreseen.
I would expect a review and plan for the future to be forthcoming as soon as possible.
Lysbeth McCrone Squamish
WORKERS’ RIGHTS
I would like to add another item to the growing list of concerns about the District of Squamish’s handling of the Woodfibre LNG project and the general governance of our town.
By requiring Woodfibre employees to live on the floatel and preventing them from residing within the general population of Squamish, the District is effectively violating Section 6(2) of Canada’s Charter
of Rights and Freedoms, which states: “Every citizen of Canadahas the right (a) to move to and take up residence in any province; and (b) to pursue the gaining of a livelihood in any province.”
When the District imposes rules that, in practice, prevent workers from living in Squamish solely on the basis of their occupation, this amounts to a restriction on both mobility and livelihood—rights explicitly protected by the Charter. Although I respect the time and effort contributed by the mayor and council, their priorities appear increasingly misplaced. Their decisions appear to be driven by environmental and social activism Thisis not the role of government.
Please stick to things likekeeping the swimming pool and ice rink open.
Martin Fichtl Squamish
The Squamish Chief welcomes letters to the editor of up to 400 words. Letters should be exclusive to this publication and are meant to respond to a local story in The Squamish Chief or raise an issue happening in town Please include your name, neighbourhood and daytime phone number The deadline is 5 p.m. Monday to be considered for Thursday’s edition. Full names and neighbourhood will be published withthe 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.
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Squamish now requires the second highest living wage in the province, behind only Whistler
PHOTO BY ANASTATIAKOGAN BRIGHT LIGHTS, LITTLE CITY: The Northern Lights could be spotted over Squamish last week
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LEST WE FORGET: Hundreds turned out for the Remembrance Day ceremony at Stan Clarke Park on Nov. 11.
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Realjobs.Realenergy.Realopportunity.
At WoodfibreLNG, we’rebuildingmorethana world-class facility—we’re creating real opportunities forCanadians.
NEW THERAPY CLINIC SET TO TRANSFORM SQUAMISH’S MENTAL HEALTH LANDSCAPE
Inner Sphere Wellness is expanding at a new location
WILL JOHNSON For The Squamish Chief
Therapy can be scary.
Even for those completely comfortable sitting across from a therapist, there’s the discomfort that comes with divulging your deepest feelings and being vulnerable in a raw way. That’s why it’s important that counsellors like Sapphire Harpin meet their clients where they are, making space for them to express themselves in the way they feel most comfortable.
“I’m quite sweary as a therapist and as a person, so knowing that, there’s no wrong way to show up in a therapy room. For some that does mean swearing or speaking in a very direct way,
that’s fine. For some, this comes up often with Brits and Aussies, they want to use really dry sarcasm, or deflect with humour,” she told The Squamish Chief.
“Sometimes we’re allowed to use black humour too. I think this is a really important point in theidea that as therapists,I think we have a reputationof being soft And there may be some therapists who are like thatbut that’s not quite my style.”
As a registered clinical counsellor, Harpin has been working in both Squamish and North Vancouver for years. She specializes in working with entrepreneurs and CEOs, and recently made the leap to anew Inner Sphere Wellness office location in the Squamish Medical Clinic building at 37979 Cleveland Ave., which has substantially more space and multiple rooms for
DispositionNotice
What’s Proposed
Dispositionofapproximately 4.47 acres (Lot A) and4.03acres (LotB)of District ownedlands, locatedat1221 and1311Pioneer Way, as identifiedin redonthe mapbelow (the “Lands”).
TheMunicipal Council of theDistrict of Squamishgives noticepursuantto Section26ofthe Community Charter of theintention to disposeofland.
TheLandsare legally defined as PID: 031-773-001,Lot 1Section 3Township 50 NewWestminster DistrictPlan EPP117375; and PID: 007-249-373, Lot38South East1/4 of Section3 Township 50 Plan 18954.
TheDistrictintendstosellLot Aand LotB to Solterra Acquisitions Corp. by wayofits nominees1194840 B.C. Ltd. and1132567 B.C. Ltd. fora total purchase priceof$13,270,000.
Legalagreementsrelatedtothis transactionmay be inspected at the officesofMunicipal Hall,37955 2nd Avenue, Squamish,B.C., V8B0A3 duringthe business hoursof8:30a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from MondaytoFriday, daily,exceptholidays.
Formoreinformation concerning this sale,pleasecontact theundersigned at (604)892-5217.
Melissa VonBloedau
Directorof CorporateAdministration
her practice
Currently, she has two other therapists, Sophie Koolen and Ceilidh Smith, on her team but they’re looking to expand—particularly in the areas of family counselling, which they now have room for, and nutritional counselling.
“With this new office we’ve got a big long-term commitment and we’re going fromone therapy room up to four so we’ve got loads of space to grow and expand, and thisis really geeky but the thing that we’re most excited about is we’ve got all kinds of windows in this office,” she said.
“You don’t want to be in this windowless little dungeon, so we’ve got these beautiful rooms and a huge reception area so once you’re done you can come into our waiting room and make a cosy cup of tea and sit in a comfy chair if you’re not quite ready to go back into the world yet. You can have that comfortable buffer zone between therapy land and the real world.”
Harpin figures there’s room to grow because “Squamish needs good health care support.”
“It’s grown so much since the pandemic and I know Squamish is one of the fastest growing towns in all of Canada, and there’s all these issues with housing and jobs This little town is bursting at the seams and there’s so many people facing challenges,” she said.
“Life is messy essentially, and therapy is where we help you get untangled.”
Her philosophy of therapy is similar to that of a dentist or a family doctor—it’s good to be a generalist, so you can address all issues that come across your desk, before you think about specializing.
“That’s my principle for my team—we’re all good quality therapists who can meet you in all of the different challenges people face, and then separate from that we have a few specialties,” she said.
“We allneed a bit of support and there’s no shame in that It can be hard to build a safe relationship, but as a therapist we want to meet people where they’re at and be a real human. I guarantee you my life is not perfect.”
Harpin comes at her practice through a feminist lens.
“That just means that I pay attention to the patriarchy and how it harms not just women, but also men. So, I would link it back to the patriarchy and social norms when there’s the standard ‘It’s weak to go into therapy’ or ‘It’s weak to need help,’ all that English stiff upper lip vibe,” she said.
“Or sometimes people feel ‘Others have it worse, my stuff isn’t bad enough therefore I shouldn’t be allowed.’ Those are big barriers.”
She said men are often told they have anger issues, when in reality it’s anxiety or depression in disguise. In general, she finds that adults are not good at identifying their emotions and naming them, something she sees in her clients who are entrepreneurs and breadwinners.
“It’s difficult managing that work-life balance and these things may seem small in the moment but they build up like paper cut after paper cut until it’s a really intense pressure cooker.”
Women in Squamish, she feels, are often torn between the active outdoors life and their desires to stay at home.
“There’s a lot of world-class athletes out there, but on the flip side there are some women who are homebodies and that’s amazing because it is a cosy community and sometimes I see them feeling like they’re not belonging or fitting in, maybe lost of disconnected from the community because there’s that strong focus on the outdoor community,” she said.
“I think it’s difficult for us to have space for both.”
In general, she just likes seeing the incremental changes people make as they work their way through therapy with her.
“I love seeing the impact that I make on clients andI love to see them moving from surviving to thriving.”
Find out more at www.innerspherewellness. com.
The Squamish Business Beat was developed in response to local demand for more business-focused news To be considered, please reach out to news@squamishchief.com.
While funding for this coverage was provided, The Squamish Chief maintains full editorial control over all content.
Brought to you by Community Futures Howe Sound, The Sea to Sky’s resource for financing and free business support to help local businesses and entrepreneurs in the area Connect with them directly and learn more at cfhowesound.com or email Kieran at kieran.hale@cfhowesound.com.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Therapists Ceilidh Smith, Sapphire Harpin and Sophie Koolen, at their new clinic.
10-Year Financial Plan
Viewable Online
Browsewhat’sincludedinthislong-term plan thatconveys howtheDistrictwillmanagefuture growth, continue to upgradefacilitiesand infrastructure, andcreatecompleteneighbourhoods to meet communityneeds,allwhileensuring thattaxincreases to residentsandbusinesses aremanageable.
SEA TO SKY SPIRIT SHINES THROUGH IN UNIQUE INDIGENOUS-CARVED GUITAR
In his off-grid Squamish log house, Greg McAuley is turning timber into tunes—building his first-ever electric guitar with help from celebrated artist Xwalacktun
Nestled in the forest down a dirt road, in an off-grid log home, lives Squamish local Greg McAuley.
Surrounded by so much timber, it is perhaps not surprising that the professional avalanche expert is working on a wooden guitar.
On a workbench, surrounded by his rock climbing and avalanche-safety gear, McAuley showcases the electric guitar he’s crafting in the shape of a Fender Stratocaster.
The body is made of light pine, which is the best for carving, McAuley explained. The neck is made of roasted maple.
A chance encounter with renowned local artist Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) led McAuley to commission Harry to carvea Sea to Sky theme into the base.
“He started with the salmon and the bearand the eagle for Sea to Sky,” McAuley said.
The men met at the Harmony Arts Festival in Vancouver, where Harry was carving at a booth. Harry was game to carve the guitar.
You don’t see Indigenousart like thisonaguitar very often, right?
XWALACKTUN(RICKHARRY)
“I played really hard for a number of years and then let it go for a while because of, you know, life. It’s always been an absolute love—the outdoors and guitars, two of my favourite things in the world.”
“Everybody who has seen it is flabbergasted,” McAuley said “You don’t see Indigenous art like this on a guitar very often, right? So, that’s what’s really specialhere, and it echoes the theme of our valley that we live in—Sea to Sky. So it makes it extra special,”he added.
“For sure, the most incredible part of this guitar is Rick Harry’s carving.”
Thisis the first guitar he has made, though he plans to build more.
“This is kind of like my dream guitar.”
He aims to have this first one done so he can play it at Christmas.
HOW IT STARTED
McAuley’s mother put him in acoustic guitar lessons as a kid, buthe wasn’t a fan at the time.
“It was so boring, andI didn’t like it—it was just the teaching methodology at the time, and so it just wasn’t exciting So I put it down, and then I went back to it when I wasa young adult, and started to play again.”
Other than times when he was busy with work and family, he has played ever since.
Though he has played for decades, he still loves to learn. He takes a class taught by Scott Squamish Academy of Music. guy’s just so brilliant that everyghe says is important, so you’ve st got to really listen,” he said, adding that the lessons have changed his guitar playing “unbelievably.”
CHANCE ENCOUNTERS
McAuley’s love of music and guitars has led to some amazing encounters, like one with Neil Young and his then wife, Pegi, in the 80s. He had fallen while rock climbing in Banff and crushed his achilles tendon.
“I was on crutches, and I was at [then-called] Banff Indian ng Post looking for a guitar strap, tall gentleman beside me spoke idhe’d like to see the green one. And the voice, I turned around and was like, ‘Oh my God, there’s Neil Young!’ So,I immediately left and went out and got my guitar, waited for him—I got him to sign it He signed it with a felt pen,”he recalled.
When a beautiful blonde woman joined them,he realized that the kind woman he had spoken with earlier outside the store was Young’s wife.
“So, I have a guitar strap that was designed by the Blood Indian Nation [of southern] Alberta, and so does Neil Young. We bought them at the same time, same place, same story, andI met him and his wife.”
For anyone who is inspired but intimidated to build their own guitar, McAuley says not to hesitate, because the information youneed to do it is available online.
“Just go for it Read and learn. Oh, absolutely, it’s all there.”
Abouta local is a semi-regular column about interesting Squamish residents. If you have an idea for someone we should profile, email jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca (Please first ensure the person is willing to be profiled.)
PHOTOS BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Greg McAuley, with his guitar.
ABOUTA LOCAL JENNIFER THUNCHER
COMMUNITY INVITED TO EXPLORE SQUAMISH MEN’S SHED ONNOV. 22
In celebration of International Men’s Day, the Squamish Men’s Shed is inviting locals to an open house on Saturday, Nov. 22. The free event will offer tours, refreshments, anda glimpse into how older men in the community are making a difference
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
Ever wonder what the Squamish Men’s Shed is all about? Well, thisevent aims to show locals what the volunteer service group of senior men is up to.
To celebrate International Men’s Day, the Squamish Men’s Shed is hosting an Open Shed Event on Saturday, Nov. 22, from12 to 4 p.m at Westwinds Senior Living, 38275 Third Ave.
This local event is part of the larger Men’s Sheds Canada’s national campaign, The Shed Effect, which showcases how chapters of the organization across the country “reduce social isolation, support men’s wellbeing, and strengthen communities through volunteer projects and community engagement,” according to anews release.
“It’s inspiring to see men in Squamish come together, building confidence, friendship, and purpose while giving back to their community,” said John Guilfoyle, newly minted president of the Squamish Men’s Shed.
The Squamish Men’s Shed is one of more
than 170 such organizations across the country. The local chapter was founded in 2016. It currently boasts 33 members, who
work out of the shed facility at Westwinds.
Visitors to the Open Shed will have the opportunity to:
- Tour the Shed, meet the “shedders,” and view photo displays
- Explore a map of volunteer projects completed by the shed
- See examples of completed intergenerational projects
Everyone is welcome at the event, which will include complimentary sandwiches and beverages.
The free local event aligns with the national The Shed Effect campaign, which features a webinar on Nov. 19, includinga keynote from Dr Megan Conway, president of Volunteer Canada,a panel of community leaders, new research on the social value of men’s sheds, and the debut of a video showcasing men’s sheds’ impact across the country.
“The Shed Effect is about the ripple created when men connect, volunteer, and contribute,” said Squamish’s Robert Goluch, president of Men’s Sheds Canada and member of the local organization.“It’s incredible to see shedders strengthen their own wellbeing while making a real difference in their local communities. Events like this one in Squamishshowcase theheart of the movement.”
Go to the Men’s Sheds Canada website to learn more or sign up for the webinar.
PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF The Men’s Shed entrance at Westwinds.
WHO ARE THE SQUAMISH INDIGENOUS BUSINESS AWARD NOMINEES?
Three Indigenous-owned businesseshave been nominated for the Squamish Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards
INA PACE
Local Journalism Initiative reporter
It’s down to business!
The finalists have been announced for The Squamish Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.
The Awards will take place on Dec. 5 at Capilano University (CapU) where folks will have the chance to acknowledge the efforts of Squamish businesses, from small non-profits to large organizations.
This year’s nominees include three of Squamish’s own Indigenous businesses; Live4Wellness,Sḵwálwen Botanicals, and Fleurescent Blooms and Rentals.
The Indigenous Business Awards are one of 12 award categories, which also include Business Leader of the Year, and Emerging Entrepreneur.
The Indigenous Business category formally recognizes Indigenous-owned businesses “which demonstrate focused business growth and leadership, while being committed to
exceptional service delivery and the wellbeing of their employees,” according to the Business Excellence Awards’ website.
The Squamish Chief reached out to the nominees for comment.
Live4Wellness CEO Toni Dumais is from the Prophet River First Nation She founded her business alongsidea team of First Nations women, includingher mother—an Elder—a decade ago to nurture the power of community and individual healing, without the fads.
Live4Wellness’ signature product is LemonAIDE,a supplement that the company claims reduces pain and inflammation, made through freeze-drying.
“As Indigenous women, we’ve walked the longroad of healing, and we know how essential it is to have access to wellness tools that are rooted in tradition,” the Live4Wellness website reads.
Dumais said she received thenews of the business’ nomination abouta month ago.
“There’s an incredible opportunity for [an Indigenous] business in winning to act as a mentor for other First Nation entrepreneurs …
that’s been a really strong fundamental of mine—trying to help provide pathways for other curious young, Indigenous youth and women,” Dumais said.
“It’s incredibly serving for the District of Squamish to be including us as a category in their celebration. I mean, it’s an honour to be a finalist, but [also to] have the opportunity to really honour both communities.
“We’re rooted in the belief that individual healing can support communityhealing on a greater and grander scale.” she said. “Our goals [are to] help nourish communities experiencing incredible loss and travesty, like my First Nation community.”
Other Indigenous business nominees Jessica Minnie, owner of florist Fleurescent Blooms, and Dr. Leigh Joseph—owner of skin-care companySḵwálwen—did not respond in time for press deadline.
Public voting was open Oct. 24 to Nov. 7.
Folks can book their gala tickets to the Awards show at CapU (3200 University Boulevard) on Dec.5 from 5.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. via the Squamish Chamber of Commerce’s website.
ASEASONOFGIVING
We’re rooted in the beliefthat individual healing can support community healing onagreaterand grander scale.
TONIDUMAIS
Tickets are $175 for chamber members, and $200 for future members.
To see the full list of nominees, go to the chamber’s website.
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.
Brenda Dohertyhas been fighting forclarity andchangetoprovincialguidelines sinceher 15-year-olddiedfromtoxic drugs almost eightyears ago
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
Nov.23would have been Steffanie Georgina-AnneLawrence’s23rd birthday. Hermom,BrendaDoherty, imagines that,ifher daughter were still alive, shewould perhapsbeworkingwith animalsorhelping at-riskyouth in some capacity.
Butinstead,Lawrenceisforever 15. Shediedshortlyafter her15thbirthdayof fentanylpoisoning on Jan. 22,2018.
“Ithink if shewould have madeitthrough all of thestuff that shewas goingthrough.In my heart, Ithink shewould have gone on to helpingyouth whoare goingthrough the same thing, maybelikea counselloror some kindofyouth worker whohelps people throughadvocacy,”saidDoherty,while standing in herbrightSquamishkitchen.A largephoto of herdaughtersmilesbrightly fromaframedphoto behind her, next to Doherty’s weddingphotos.
FIGHTING FOROTHER CHILDREN
Lawrence struggledwithsignificant mental health issues,self-harm,and severe drug addiction, despiteher family’s desperateefforts to secure help forher.In thedaysleading up to herdeath,she ran away to downtown Vancouver.
Shewas picked up by theRCMPand taken toLions Gate Hospital,but shewas released within hours, withouther mombeing notified,asshe wasdeemeda“mature minor.”
Dohertyhas fought ever sincetochange thesystemsothata childlikeLawrence— with mental health andaddiction struggles—couldbemoreeffectively assessed andheldagainst theirwill, if needed, foraperiodoftime.
“Ifyou’reseverelyaddictedor youhave severe mental health issues,yourbrain can’t function,”saidDoherty.
“And at 14 yearsold,yourbrain isn’t even developedenough, number one, to even makethese informed decisionsonyour own.”
HOPEFUL
Dohertysaidshe knowsthatthe provincial government hasadocumentinthe works, “Generalguidancefor physicians on theuse ofthe Mental Health Actwhentreating Children andYouth with substanceuse disorders,”which sheisdesperately hoping willbereleasedsoon.
Shebelievesitwould allowmomsand dads to parent when theirchildrenarea
AlthoughIwas unable to save my daughter’s life,Ihave been advocatingfor clarityand change in theseguidelines ever since.
BRENDADOHERTY
‘Generalguidancefor physicians on theuse of theMentalHealthAct when treating Children andYouth with substanceuse disorders’ hasbeenfinalized andisnearing introduction.However,I am concernedthat untilitisofficiallyintroduced, thesevital guidelines remaininaccessible to youthand children.The dailysuffering of children and families underscoresthe urgent need forthis PHOTOBYJENNIFERTHUNCHER/THESQUAMISHCHIEF
Brenda Dohertyinher home,aphoto of herlatedaughterSteffanieGeorgina-Anne Lawrence.
graveand immediatedangertothemselves.
Withsafeguardsalsoinplace,itwould allow parentstohavetheir children held for a period of time so they candetox andbe offereda treatmentplan. Shebelievesthe guidelineswould have savedher daughter, oratleast givenher afightingchance.
“EverywhereIsoughtassistance, Iwas advised therewas nothingmoreIcould do, only to ‘let hergoand hope that shewas going to be OK,’’Doherty said in herletterto the premierthatshe shared with The Squamish Chief.
“The months leadinguptoSteffanie’s deathwereprofoundlydevastating and life-alteringfor herand ourfamily,”she wrote.
In addition to beingadaughter, Lawrence wasa sister, granddaughter, niece, friend, andastudent.Her loss hasrippled through thecommunity.
“Since Steffanie’spassing,I have been contacted by many families whowishedto sharetheir experienceswithme. Some of these families hadchildreninsimilar situations, some were seekingadvice, and othershad tragically lost achild to mental health disordersorsubstance use,”Doherty wrote.
“AlthoughI wasunabletosavemy daughter’slife, Ihavebeenadvocatingfor clarityand change in theseguidelinesever since. Imet with Dr.[Daniel]VigoonApril 14, 2025,todiscuss Steffanie’sstory andhave remained in contact. Iunderstandthatthe
HOPEFUL: Continuedon20
BritanniaMineMuseumgratefully acknowledges their communitysponsors:
Walkthrough atwinklingdisplayof50 yearsoftoys,from the1970s tothe2020s,andcapturenostalgic family photoswithSanta. No booking required and no admissionfee!
document’s immediate implementation.”
Doherty said she understands there are concerns about any involuntary care, and she gets where those concerns are coming from.
“[But] my guess is, number one, they’ve never actually been through it,” she said “Once you’re there and thisis your own baby that you’re watching self-destruct to the point where you’re actually afraid for their life, that, to me, trumps ‘Well, they have rights to say yes orno.’ I’m sorry. At 14, if I’m absolutely afraid that you’re going to die, I’m sorry, my sayneeds to trump your say.”
In July and August of this year, suspected drug toxicity deaths in youth under 19 increased from 15 deaths reported in 2024 to 21 reported in 2025, according to the BC Coroners Service.
“That’sa lot of kids,” Doherty said “Not all of these drug addicted teens are going to grow up to be drug addicted adults. If we can intervene early, I think they have a better chance,” Doherty said.
‘WE CAN’T BOTH FALL APART’
The impact on the family members is immeasurable, Doherty said, noting that some marriages don’t survive the loss of a child.
She creditsher husband, Andrew andher two boys, with being “her rocks” through some really dark years sinceher daughter’s death.
“We’re stillhere and stronger than wewere
back then,” she said.
Everyone grieves differently, and that is sometimes hard for each partner to understand about the other.
“We can’t both fall apart, right? One of you needs to keep going? He was the rock, becauseI couldn’t be,” she said of her husband.
Doherty has spoken before about howher daughter’s death broughther to her knees with grief.
“I can’t say it gets easier, becauseI don’t believe that.I think, every dayI find anew and inventive way to get through my day,” she said. Losing Lawrence changed her forever.
“That Brenda I knew is gone I definitely don’t have the same sense of humour I used to.” Her aim now is to try to see changes happen so that more moms don’t have to live through what she has.
MINISTRY OF HEALTH RESPONSE
For its part,a spokesperson for the Ministry of Health acknowledged that there is no greaterheartbreak than the loss of a child.
“Steffanie’s death wasa tragedy, and we are grateful to her mother for continuing to courageously share her family’s journey to help ensure that no parent loses another child to toxic drugs,” the spokesperson said.
“We understand that parents want to do everything in their power to keep their children safe.”
The ministry clarified that adults and youth with a mental health disorder can be involuntarily admitted under the Mental
Remember lovedones& Gather in community
Take time to honouryour lovedoneswho arewithusinspirit, during this eveningof love andlight.Comeand be supportedatthe start ofthe holiday season with others whohavelostlovedones at our outdoortreelightingceremony.
Health Act if all of the following four criteria are met:
- The person suffers from a mental disorder that seriously impairs their ability to react appropriately to their environment, or to associate with others;
- The person requires psychiatric treatment in or througha designated facility;
- The person requires care, supervision and control in or througha designated facility to prevent their substantial mental or physical deterioration, or for their own protection or the protectionof others; and
- The person is not suitable as a voluntary patient
Decisions about how best to treat young people struggling with addictions are made by doctors and clinicians, guided by B.C.’s mature minor consent rules under the Infants Act.
Under the Act, thehealth care provider providing thehealth care can only accept consent to receive or refuse health care if they have carefully explained it to the youth and are satisfied that the youth fully understands the nature of thehealth care intervention, including its benefits and risks, and have concluded that thehealth care is in the youth’s best interests.
If the provider is not satisfied that the youth fully understands the nature of thehealth interventionor their refusal, including its risks and benefits, then the parents can consent to receive or refuse health care for the youth, the spokesperson clarified.
According to the ministry, Dr Vigo is currently in the process of developing the
Thisis Beans (or“BeansThe Beautiful”, as we’venicknamed him)!
Notallofthese drug addicted teens are going to grow up to be drug addicted adults.If we can intervene early,I thinkthey have a betterchance.
BRENDADOHERTY
guidance document, mentioned by Doherty, specifically to clarify the treatment of youth under the current Mental Health Act.
“Government has also committed to conducta review of the Mental Health Act to ensure we continue to have the best possible mental health care in B.C.,” the spokesperson said, adding the ministry will have more to say in the weeks ahead.
“In the meantime, we will continue to urgently builda full and comprehensive system of voluntary mental health and substance use care that works for everyone, including young people,” the spokesperson said. “This includes expanding early intervention and prevention services such as Foundry and Integrated Child and Youth teams, and adding more youth substance use beds across the province.”
SquamishTownHub (AdjacenttoCloudburstCafe)
FlorencePetersonPark
Beansisa lovebuginevery senseofthe word.Ifhewas aperson,he’dbethe friend thateveryonealwayswants around.A random soccergamebreaksout at thepark? He’llvolunteer as goalie OR referee- whatever youneed.You ran outofgasandneed someonetobring youa jerry-can? He’llbethere in ten. An all-around “cool cat” sums up hispersonality. Areyou lucky enough to be hisperson?
BUILDING OURCOMMUNITY
EmployeeHealth &Wellness Plan available
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SENIOR BOOKKEEPER– Ensuresaccurate,compliantfinancialoperationsandanalysis while maintainingefficientsystems,accountability,and teamalignment with companygoals.CPAor workingtowardsdesignationpreferred.$30-35 perhour.
ACROSS
1. Coverwith gold
5.“God’sLittle____”
9. Soaking
12.Place
13.Stop,toDobbin
14. Poison____
15.____diving
16. Permits
17.Puppy’sbite
18. Event
20.Baldbird
22.Inshort
25.Character
27.Operated
28.Served forapoint
30.“____Girl”
34.Aardvark’ssnack
35.Springbird
37.Glaciermaterial
38. Putoncargo
40. Oldstringedinstrument
41.Fish “arm”
42. Perceivesound
44.Losestraction
46.Utensil
49.Entry
51.Notloud
52.Ancient
54.Stagesofhistory
58. Prospector’squest
59. Rope
60.“____Rider”
61.Tietheknot
62. Flip,asacoin
63.Spout
DOWN
1.Oxygenorhelium,e.g. 2. Provoke
3.Hawaiianhandout
4.Dotheelectricslide
5.Holepunchers
6. Popularbarbecueitems
7. Spoil
8.Artist’stripod
9. Bird’sflapper
10.“ Woman”
11. Classify
19.Long wayoff
21. Fore’s partner
22.Bikini tops
23.Goonandon
24.Divisionpreposition
26.Emend
29.Kindofsoda
31.Sound gear: hyph.
32.Etchingliquid
33.Decadenumbers
36. Aerie
39.“____Do YouLove”
43.Pass,as alaw
45.Holdson to
46.Not verybusy
47.Leafopening
48.Hadbills
50.Doesarithmetic
53.Stickyglop
55. Musicalstyle
56.Beerlikebeverage
57.Doneedlework
Crossword puzzleanswers use Americanspelling
LASTWEEK’SANSWERS:
ARIES March21-April19
Afterachievingasignificant milestoneorcompletinga majorproject,makesure you taketime tobask in your success. You’ll be enthusiastic aboutsharing thisachievement withthosearoundyou and organizeacelebration to mark the occasion.
TAURUS April20-May20
Youmuststayfocused and doubledown on yourefforts to avoid anydelaysthis week. However, remembertocarve outmomentsfor relaxationand enjoymenttorechargeyour batteriesand maintain your efficiency.
GEMINI May21-June20
If yourfamilyisscattered across thecountry, you have two optionsfor gettingeveryone togetherfortheholidays: take a roadtrip to visit each family memberorplanatriptogether.
CANCER June21-July22
You’ll be anexpertnegotiator andcommunicatorthis week, whichwill helpyou secure fundingfor aprofessionalor personalproject. However, be awarethat thefearof disappointmentcouldimpact yourconfidence.
SUDOKU
LEO July23-Aug. 22
You’llexperience resounding successthis week,especiallyif you work in sales.Yourability to attractnew clients willlikely lead to apromotion. Your keen attention to detail willgiveyou that extraedgethat sets you apart.
VIRGO Aug.23-Sept.22
Beingable to giveapolished presentationcouldplaya crucial rolein yoursuccessat work.Yourwit mayhelp you winoveryoursuperiors. In yourlovelife,let yourpassion guide yourcommitment andhelp build astronger connection with yourpartner.
LIBRA Sept.23-Oct. 22
Youmustaddressfamilyissues directlyastheycomeup. Avoidingthemcouldlead to confusion. Youmay alsohave to bringworkhome with you some eveningsthis week.
SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov.21
Your strong communication skills willhelp you naturally expand yourprofessional network.You’llneverbeshort onconversation topics at work this week.You’ll easily forge new relationships.
SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec.21
Youmay be surprised to find somemoneyyou forgotabout tuckedawayinanold ski jacket from last year.Inyourlovelife, prioritizeopencommunication; this willhelp you receivemore love and affection.
CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan.19
You’ll be burstingwithenergy this weekand will startplanning yourholiday parties.You may comeface to face with someof youremotional baggage. Takea momenttorelax andfocuson yourwell-beingtoclear your headandfeelmoreatease.
AQUARIUS Jan.20-Feb.18
Speechissilver,silence is golden. Youthrivecreativelywhen you’re calm.You’llenjoy thecomfortof yourhomethis week,whether you’redesigninga work ofartor devotingyourself to arewarding spiritualpractice.
PISCES Feb. 19-March20
Take thetime to reevaluate friendshipsandconsider lettinggoofthosethat taketoo much of yourenergy.Purge yoursocialcircletomake roomfornewconnections. You’ll have theopportunityto develop valuablefriendships with yourworkcolleagues.
HOWTOPLAY:
Fillinthegridsothat every row, every columnand every 3x3box contains thenumbers1through 9onlyonce. Each 3x3box isoutlinedwith adarker line. Youalreadyhave afew numbers to getyou started. Remember: youmust not repeatthenumbers1through 9in thesameline, columnor 3x3box.
TheParish of St.John the Divine, Squamish Holy Communionand Morning Worship Sundays at 10:00AM Rev. Cameron Gutjahr 1930Diamond Road 604-898-5100
WorshipService Sundays10am onourwebsite and FacebookLive 2262ReadCres. 604-898-3737 www.squamishbaptistchurch.org
SERVING SQUAMISHAREA
C Carbon g Engi ering
As Carbon Engineering approaches 10 years in Squamish (Swxwú7mesh), British Columbia, we continue to express our gratitude for the support we have received from both the community and local leadership towards our mission. We’re committed to being a supportive part of this community, and part of this commitment includes serving as a resource now and through the years ahead.
CELEBRATES 10 YEARS IN SQUAMISH
Carbon Engineering
As it marks 10 years in Squamish, Carbon Engineering readies for its international carbon-capture prime time
The company’s decade-long commitment to its local home has pioneered the Direct Air Capture technology now set for massive commercial scale capture
EVAN DUGGAN FOR THE SQUAMISH CHIEF
During its 10 years in Squamish, Carbon Engineering’s team has expanded from 15 to roughly 185 people, and that’s a figure that comes up several times during interviews about the company’s milestone anniversary in this community. Team growth and the impact the company is having locally is clearly a source of pride for general manager Toby Stedham. But so too is the broader evolution of the company, its technology and its potential role in global carbon capture success. Today, the company serves in Squamish as an Innovation Centre for Occidental Petroleum Corp, its parent organization Together, they are ramping up operations in several forms that could eventually provide a meaningful weapon against climate change
As Carbon Engineering (CE) marks a decade in Squamish, Stedham spoke with The Squamish Chief about the company’s latest successes and goals; its genesis in the community; and the future for carbon capture technology and commercialization.
COMPANY’S INNOVATION
HELPS TO LAUNCH LARGESCALE CARBON CAPTURE
CE, which began as a research project at the University of Calgary in 2009, has pioneered and developed a Direct Air Capture technology that can pull large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere.
Stedham joined CE about seven years ago. “When I joined, it was 35 people,” he said “It was a really scrappy, gritty team that really believed in the mission.”
Seeing the team grow and the organization become successful as an
Innovation Centre for carbon capture has been huge personally and professionally, Stedham said “That first 10 years was about developing the technology, proving at the pilot scale and the demonstration scale that it worked, and really driving everything towards getting that first commercial plant built, and getting that to the point that it’s operating.”
Houston-based Oxy bought CE in 2023 With Oxy’s backing, CE’s carbon capture technology will soon be unleashed at a new massive plant in West Texas, called Stratos.
Stedham says their 10-year milestone in Squamish provides a chance to reflect on the exciting, challenging and interesting work that has been accomplished. “Ultimately, [it’s] very rewarding being able to see the journey, and the growth, and the success that we’ve achieved, and also… how the community has embraced us, and how we’ve been able to contribute to the community as well.”
UNDERSTANDING CE’S APPROACH TO CARBON CAPTURE
CE operates its Innovation Centre in Squamish located at Campus Street and Innovation Avenue There, a large fan pulls air from the atmosphere into a contractor where it meets a liquid capture solution. The captured carbon dioxide is fed into a closed-loop system where it is concentrated into calcium carbonate pellets.
At the next step, the calcium carbonate pellets are heated to release pure carbon dioxide that can be captured and compressed. What’s left over is a powder material called calcium oxide, which is then slaked and added back into the system
The process ultimately eliminates the CO2 captured from the air, generating a feedstock of carbon that can be paired with secure geologic storage to deliver carbon dioxide removal credits, or used to produce low carbon products, like fuels.
Crucially, the system recycles chemicals in a closed-loop and can operate at scale with minimal chemical make-up and waste. It’s highly replicable
“We’re really focused on driving forward the technology for direct air capture of carbon dioxide,” Stedham said That is happening today as Oxy cements the Squamish site for its research and innovation operations while Oxy, with support from CE, prepares Stratos for full-scale production It will be the world’s largest carbon capture operation.
“We’re going through commissioning and startup [in Texas] right now,” Stedham said, adding that the Stratos plant will have a meaningful impact in removing CO2 from the atmosphere. “I think the team is very proud to be able to see the impact of their work and the potential for this technology to be deployed at a global scale.”
CE’S GOOD FIT WITH THE SQUAMISH COMMUNITY
Stedham emphasizes the mutually beneficial relationship CE has with the community in Squamish He says most of the staff live in town and the local organization is playing a key role in the Texas operations.
“We have a whole bunch of our team deployed down there with them, so sharing the knowledge that we’ve developed over the last five to 10 years in operating the facilities,” he said “We peaked at 20 [CE] people on site [in Texas] just over a week or two ago ... in support of their startup.”
As most know, Squamish is a hotbed of rock climbing, and some employees at CE take part in the sport. Those with climbing skills have been playing an important role at Stratos, helping to lead and provide access for elevated technical work on the towering
PHOTO COURTESY OF CARBON ENGINEERING ULC The Carbon Engineering Innovation Centre.
structure. “They’re doing quality control checks and supporting commissioning activities,” Stedham said He said alignment between the Squamish and Texas teams has been seamless
“They came in with decades of industrial operations experience,” he said. “They really supported us, helped us, guided us through developing the team, developing the skill sets (and) the ways of operating safely.”
REFLECTING ON THE COMPANY’S ORIGINS
CE was founded in 2009 but arrived in Squamish in 2015. They had been conducting lab and bench scale experimentation at the University of Calgary. “We got to the point where it was time to scale-up and build our first pilot plant,” Stedham said They were looking at a range of locations and Squamish stood out. “It’s an outstanding place, and we had the opportunity to take advantage of some pre-existing infrastructure from previous industry that already existed.”
The initial location at the oceanfront already had lab space, office space and was set up for handling chemicals and doing the work that needed to be done by CE, Stedham said “It was a fortunate set of circumstances that led us to Squamish Everything else that Squamish has to offer has a huge upside.”
The community has always been engaged and curious about the work at CE “There’s always a lot of interest, and people want to talk about it [and] show their connection in some way,” Stedham said. “We found our people and grew pretty rapidly from there,” he said. “We’re now a little bit over 185 people so it’s been great to see the company establish its home in Squamish and really grow.”
The kind of people who live in Squamish tend to value nature and the outdoors and health, so developing solutions to remove CO2 from the atmosphere seems to resonate with many locals, he said Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford agrees. He told The Squamish Chief in an interview that he sees CE at the leading edge of climate technology and
as an important economic contributor to the local economy. “It’s been instrumental in the changes we’ve seen in the community,” he said “I also think that this area of green technology and innovation is something that I see Squamish already playing a large role in.”
“We’re now a little bit over 185 people so it’s been great to see the company establish its home in Squamish and really grow.”
Over its lifespan in Squamish and through the acquisition by Oxy, Hurford said opportunities likely arose for the organization to move elsewhere. “I’m really happy to see that’s not been the case, and I think what we’re seeing is actually the exact opposite of that; where they’re making a sizeable investment in the community and in the future of their business.”
Some people from their team are coming here to work and seeing Squamish for the first time, the mayor added. “They’re seeing this company, but also the natural surroundings that we’re in and I think these things go hand in hand when you’re trying to work on the climate crisis I can’t think of a more inspirational place than Squamish to really remind us of what it is that we’re looking to protect.”
CE EXPECTS BRIGHT FUTURE FOR THE BUSINESS LOCALLY, AND GLOBALLY
Squamish has grown as a community around the company, Stedham said “Being able to support some of that growth with local employment and local jobs that enable people to live in the community and integrate with the community is one of the things that we’re really proud of,” he said “We’ve [also] initiated a scholarship for the local high school for people who excel in STEM.”
CE looks forward to continuing to innovate to drive down the cost of
CELEBRATES 10 YEARS IN SQUAMISH
carbon capture on a large scale. Stedham said that’s their primary focus at their Squamish operations. “The lower that we can drive it, the more and more that technology is going to be accessible and attractive,” he said “That’s going to enable us to build facilities around the world.”
In Squamish, the Innovation Centre is set to expand. CE currently operates two sites on the oceanfront “We have a third site that we’re in the process of constructing right now,” he said.
The new 4.5-acre site is expected to nearly double CE’s technology development space and is complementary to the existing centre at the oceanfront. The new site is along Queens Way in the Business Park area Stedham said that site should come online in the next few years.
“This next phase is about maturing, not just the technology, but also the company,” Stedham said, noting that means expanding on their commercial output in partnership with Oxy.
There needs to be large-scale carbon removals as part of the battle against climate change, Stedham said. “There are a number of organizations working towards that,” he said “We believe that we’re well positioned there.” Stedham said they have already sold a million tonnes of pre-sales of CO2 removals Shopify, a massive Canadian e-commerce company, signed on as an early customer in March 2021. More recently, Microsoft bought 500,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide removals in July 2024. “That really fills up the first few years of capacity for the first commercial plant. Not only is the technology there, but also the markets [are] there. We have a lot of commitments already,” he said “I think we’re seeing that the technology is accelerating, and the deployment is moving forward.” ■
Editor’s note: This special feature was crafted in paid partnership with Carbon Engineering, however the story was written independently by a journalist
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Carbon Engineering
CE’s team of <15 moves to Squamish & constructs a Pilot Plant in the Oceanfront area.
CE produces fuel from air using the AIR TO FUELS™ process.
CE captures carbon dioxide from the air for the first time.
CE becomes the first DAC company to publish peerreviewed research on its technology process.
CE reaches ~50 employees!
CE kicks off construction for their Innovation Centre in the Oceanfront area.
CELEBR ATES 10 YEARS IN SQUAMISH
Oxy acquires Carbon Engineering, enabling the teams to accelerate innovation and work as one team tao bring commercial facilities online.
Vicki Hollub Oxy CEO, and Toby Stedham, Carbon Engineering general manager
CE’s British Columbia-based team is comprised of over 185 innovators from around the world, with 2/3 based locally in Squamish Oxy makes first investment in Carbon Engineering.
CE reaches ~100 employees!
CELEBR ATES ITS 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Shopify becomes the first company to build carbon removal credits that use CE’s technology into decarbonization plans.
CE reaches ~150 employees!
Construction begins on the first commercial DAC facility to use CE’s technology, named STRATOS.
CE purchases 4.5 acres in the Squamish Business park to invest in additional research facilities
CE’s Innovation Centre is built, offering an integrated platform for continued research and demonstration.
Microsoft agrees to purchase 500,000 tonnes of carbon removal, the largest single purchase of DAC CDR credits to date
CE launches its first programs to support local students, including scholarships for Excellence in STEM and a regional speaker series for students and after school programs. STRATOS begins commissioning. Once fully operational, it is expected to be the largest DAC facility in the world.
Carbon Engineering
Meet three Carbon Engineering employees
Behind every company are its people
NAME: Blake Pilling
POSITION: Director, operations
NAME: Hollie Roberts
YEARS AT CARBON ENGINEERING: 6.5 years
In lay terms, what is the most rewarding part of your job at Carbon Engineering?
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing people unite over a common goal. Managing a team of nearly 30 means all different backgrounds and experiences come together to contribute and grow alongside this business, each working together because we believe in what we do. Sharing our work is also rewarding to me, whether that’s connecting with neighbours or presenting at my son’s elementary school
What is one thing you wish more people understood about Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology and its potential?
I wish more people understood that there are so many ways to be a good environmental steward. Working on Direct Air Capture, which pulls excess carbon from the air, is how we’re contributing but it’s only one way. Addressing climate change is a collective effort with room for all different skillsets.
If you could give younger people one piece of career advice, knowing what you know now about the climate industry, what would it be?
Find the intersection of what you care about, what you enjoy and what you’re good at doing. Use this as your guide when you talk to people, do your research and get creative about what’s possible As a chemical engineer, I’m contributing to the climate industry through developing new technology, but there’s also many opportunities for progress in existing industries, like energy and utilities.
What is your favourite non-work activity in Squamish?
Getting outside, whether that means building on my mountain biking skills and introducing my two sons to the trails, coaching youth soccer or combing local beaches with my family.
POSITION: Human resources manager
YEARS AT CARBON ENGINEERING: 16 years
In lay terms, what is the most rewarding part of your job at Carbon Engineering?
Seeing the excitement of our super-smart employees when they solve a complicated problem or come up with something brand new that will enhance what we already have or fix a roadblock—and not just our scientists and engineers, I’m including our operators, technicians, technologists and support staff.
What is one thing you wish more people understood about Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology and its potential?
I wish more people understood we’re not only talking about addressing residual emissions from sources that can’t be easily eliminated today, but we’re also developing a tool capable of tackling legacy emissions in the future Also, I wish people understood there are no bad questions, big or small, and we appreciate the curiosity. For example, locally people ask why there is steam visible on some days at our Innovation Centre. Evaporating water helps us balance the process and manage all the rain we experience in Squamish.
If you could give younger people one piece of career advice, knowing what you know now about the climate industry, what would it be?
Be prepared to work hard but the reward will be working with other like-minded individuals that match your values Be prepared to challenge the status quo and stick to what you know is right. There are so many challenges to solve in the climate industry so be prepared to offer your unique skills—technical, non-technical.
What is your favourite non-work activity in Squamish?
The epic hiking, with my new favorite being ‘The Climb’ and enjoying a rewarding beverage at the summit of the Sea to Sky Gondola.
CELEBR ATES 10 YEARS IN SQUAMISH
If you want to really get to know a company, talk to its people on the ground The Squamish Chief put questions to three current employees from different parts of the company to find out more about Carbon Engineering’s employees. All live and work in Squamish.
NAME: Dr. Andrew Ostericher
We are proud to partner with Carbon Engineering to help make our community safe and healthy for all. Thank you for your support!
POSITION: Director, technology development YEARS AT CARBON ENGINEERING: 6.5 years
In lay terms, what is the most rewarding part of your job at Carbon Engineering?
I’ve dedicated my entire chemistry career to clean tech development with a particular focus on carbon dioxide capture and conversion and it’s a privilege to guide the research leading to our next-generation Direct Air Capture (DAC) technologies at CE. I’m deeply grateful to work with an amazing team of like-minded people who have become incredible friends, all the while surrounded by the inspiring natural beauty of Squamish.
What is one thing you wish more people understood about Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology and its potential?
This is straightforward chemistry and not science fiction. DAC mimics how nature manages carbon in photosynthesis. We use clean energy to capture carbon dioxide just like plants use the sun and can choose to either store it or use the carbon as a building block for useful things. DAC is only one tool to support a balanced industry carbon cycle, and not an excuse to delay other initiatives. We still need everything from electrifying transport to restoring our forests.
If you could give younger people one piece of career advice, knowing what you know now about the climate industry, what would it be?
From studying music and researching neurotoxins in algae to moving abroad to pursue chemistry and even distilling whiskey for a short period, my career hasn’t been linear, but each experience has shaped who I am and what I do today. Let your curiosity and what you feel is important drive you, and your questions might put you in a position to help shape important change in society, science, the arts or something else entirely.
What is your favourite non-work activity in Squamish?
Ski in the winter, fly fish for the shoulder seasons, mountain bikes and music the whole year round!
Congratulations to Carbon Engineering on 10 years in Squamish!
We are so grateful for their support, along with the partnership of so many businesses and organizations in Squamish.This partnership allows us to support hundreds of families in Squamish around the holidays.
Please visit communitychristmascare.com to see how you can be part of Community Christmas Care this year Community Caring for Community Filling hampers with gifts, toys and love in the spirit of Christmas.
