January 4, 2024 - Squamish Chief

FOUND FRIENDS

Strangers become fast friends over a lost piece of jewelry

PAGE 14

AREN’T THE BEARS SLEEPING? A biologist explains hibernation

NEW

PAGE 4

Weekend Forecast Inside

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

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

WHAT’S WITH OUR HERITAGE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY?

One highlight includes establishing a Squamish Heritage Register, which would identify properties of historical significance ANDREW HUGHES

ahughes@squamishchief.com

W

PHOTO BY MYKEL THUNCHER/FOR THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

SWIMMING IN THE NEW YEAR: The 13th annual New Year’s Day Squamish Polar Bear Dip went off without a hitch at Porteau Cove Provincial Park. Organizer Mike Wright counted down to noon, unleashing about 80 participants of all ages—several in costumes—to splash into the waters of Howe Sound from the boat ramps at the park.

ith so much change happening in town, how does the District of Squamish plan to manage its history? That’s what the Heritage Management Strategy aims to figure out.

At the Nov. 28 committee of the whole meeting, council members unanimously voted to receive a report on the strategy while offering feedback. The strategy will still need to have further approvals before becoming practice.

Much like other strategies developed by the District, heritage management has short-, medium- and long-term goals that vary from building a community culture that values and cultivates heritage to implementing heritage tools and including heritage in neighbourhood planning strategies.

One highlight from the District report included establishing a Squamish Heritage Register, which would identify property that is “considered by the local HERITAGE: Continued on 5

Wishing everyone a peaceful, joyful & healthy 2024!

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4 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

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LOST & FOUND: UNEXPECTED CHRISTMAS SURPRISE Christmas miracle unfolds as stranger’s kindness touches Toronto woman on Sea to Sky Highway JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief.com

I

t is a Christmas miracle of sorts, manifested by the kindness of a stranger.

Toronto’s Victoria Bothwell was on her way down the Sea to Sky Highway to the ferry from a “girls’ day” at Scandinave Spa in Whistler when she stopped to take in the view at the Tantalus Lookout.

She is in B.C. visiting her soon-to-be in-laws in Gibsons and was heading to the Sunshine Coast.

But when she got to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal that Monday, Dec. 18, she realized her necklace’s sapphire and diamond teardrop pendant was missing.

It was a gift last Christmas from her fiance Steven DesBrisay, and Bothwell said she had been triple-checking it was in place since it fell off suddenly two weeks ago.

“It’s so pretty,” she said, adding that while the jewelry is replaceable, the sentimental value means the most to her.

She had checked it was on when she left the spa, and it was there, so, at the ferry terminal, she ripped the car apart, even stripping off her clothes to see if it was still with her.

No luck.

She called the spa to see if she had dropped it in the parking lot.

No luck.

When she told her fiance, she was in tears, she said, adding that DesBrisay, who she will wed in September, was “really nice about it.”

“He’s like, ‘You know, it’s OK. It’s only a thing,’” she said.

They thought they might have had insurance on the piece, but it expired about 20 days ago.

She didn’t have time to go back to the lookout, so she returned to her in-laws but didn’t give up.

She checked online and hoped someone would post finding it, but nothing came up.

Eventually, she posted on the Squamish Lost and Found Facebook group asking if anyone had seen it.

“I was kind of hesitant to post anything on Facebook because I didn’t want someone to go in and just look for it intentionally to steal it and sell it,” she said, adding had she posted such a thing in Toronto, that is what likely would have happened.

But not so in Squamish.

Keeta Newman saw the post and went out to look for the pendant—at 4 a.m., with a flashlight.

Newman told The Squamish Chief that since her dad died in September, she hasn’t slept as much, and searching for the pendant was a distraction.

She was as devoted to the task as Nancy Drew.

She walked a grid around the parking lot, looking back and forth for the piece of jewelry.

She even used a tab from a soda as a reference for how the item might show up in the beam of light from her flashlight.

But as much as she paced, she couldn’t find it.

“I’m like, I guess I’m not going to be her hero.

I’m not going to make someone’s day,” Newman recalled. “And I’m like, ‘Creator, please let me be FOUND: Continued on 5

PHOTO COURTESY OF KEETA NEWMAN

Victoria Bothwell (left) and Keeta Newman when they met up on Thursday to exchange the jewelry.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024 | 5

GOT NEWS? Email your news tip or story idea to:

jthuncher@squamishchief.com ahughes@squamishchief.com

HERITAGE: Continued from 1 government to be heritage property,” reads the report. Other highlights include updating the tree management bylaw to include heritage trees and developing an inventory of historical information and an archive in partnership with the Squamish Public Library.

“Echoing my council colleagues, I think this is an extraordinarily large step forward for heritage management in Squamish,” said Coun. Andrew Hamilton.

Council members also offered feedback on the proposal and several members stated they would like to see even more Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) history and input as the strategy continues its development.

“A lot of good points were raised today in particular about honestly examining our history and historical context,” said Coun. Lauren Greenlaw. “I’m in agreement with my council colleagues that I would appreciate a greater representation of Squamish Nation heritage. I think it’d be really interesting to see more information on how these lands have been historically inhabited.”

Greenlaw also recognized that Coun. Eric Andersen has pointed to the Sikh community as having a lot of influence and impact and hoped the group was represented as well.

On the topic of heritage registers, there were some mixed feelings between council members

FOUND: Continued from 4 someone’s hero.’”

She was almost back at her vehicle when, there it was, by some rocks.

She let Bothwell know. They met at Squamish’s McDonald’s on Thursday.

Newman brought the pendant and a Christmas card, and Bothwell brought the cookies she had promised in her post for whoever found it.

WISHING YOU ALL THE BEST IN THE NEW YEAR!

as to the best method of taking on this aspect.

Coun. Chris Pettingill said he was “hesitant” taking on designating buildings until there was a better understanding of Squamish’s entire history, including Squamish Nation history, so these designations don’t favour one heritage over another.

Meanwhile, Andersen hoped the District could assemble staff quickly to help with an estimated six buildings that are “urgent, at-risk heritage assets” in current development circumstances or applications.

Jonas Velaniskis, the senior director of community development for the District, said staff do try to “incorporate heritage where possible in new development, if there’s heritage value in that location.”

As an example, he said the Sirocco apartments along the Mamquam Blind Channel incorporated signs and public artwork. Furthermore, he said heritage features are sometimes built into new developments but did not provide a precise example.

Other points of feedback to staff offered by council members included reviewing neighbourhood boundaries given in the strategy as well as including language that the items included in the strategy are just the beginning and more will come over time.

For more information about the strategy, review the report from the District’s website at squamish.ca.

The women hugged.

“I called her my Christmas miracle,” said Bothwell.

The two are now Facebook friends and plan to stay in touch.

Newman says her dad would be proud of her.

“This is the first Christmas without him, so he would want me to do something good and make someone else’s day because that is what he always did,” she said.

PHOTO BY BRIAN AIKENS

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ZERO-EMISSIONS VEHICLE STANDARD LAUDED BY SEA TO SKY MP Patrick Weiler said Squamish is already leading the way in uptake of electric vehicles SCOTT TIBBALLS

stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

S

quamish and the Sea to Sky set the standard for zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) adoption in Canada, according to West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country MP Patrick Weiler.

“While B.C is leading the country in terms of zero-emissions vehicle adoption rates, the leading metropolitan area is actually Squamish,” said Weiler immediately after the federal government released its Electric Vehicle Availability Standard earlier this month.

“Right now in Canada, transportation is our second-biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions—it’s about a quarter of Canada’s emissions,” he said.

The new standard, announced by Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault on Tuesday, Dec. 19, is designed to phase out the sale of vehicles powered solely by gas or diesel completely by 2035, by ramping up the percentage of ZEVs required to be sold by automakers in Canada over a 12-year period.

FILE PHOTO BY BRADEN DUPUIS

Expanding Canada’s public charger network is just one aspect of a new federal government plan around electric vehicles.

The standard, which will be rolled out Canada-wide, starts with a 20-per-cent ZEV sales requirement in 2026, and keeps going up

each year until it’s 100 per cent by 2035.

“Given that the average age of a vehicle is 15 years, putting in place a 100-per-cent ZEV

sales target by 2035 will help end the use of polluting light-duty vehicles by 2050,” reads the government release on the standard.

The new federal standard is not as aggressive as the B.C. provincial standard (introduced in October), but still reaches the same 100-per-cent ZEV target by 2035. Comparing the two, the B.C. standard sets targets of 26 per cent ZEV sales by 2026 (compared to 20 federally), 90 per cent by 2030 (60 per cent federally), and 100 per cent by 2035.

Governed by the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, automakers will be issued credits for each ZEV they sell, with credits determined by how far a vehicle can travel while only powered by a battery. Automakers can bank credits if they sell more than the required percentage of vehicles, or sell them to other automakers. They can also make up 10 per cent of the credits they need annually by investing in public charging stations.

Companies that don’t meet the target will generate a deficit they must discharge within three model years.

Weiler said B.C. is already well ahead of the curve in electric vehicle sales (21 per cent in EV: Continued on 7

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electric vehicles are somehow less environmentally sustainable than gas-powered cars,” he said.

“The materials that are required to build it in the first place have slightly higher impact, but when we’re talking about Canada, already 85 per cent of our grid is non-emitting, and we’re committed to getting to 100 per cent by 2030. There is little to no environmental impact with the operation of the vehicle over time, whereas when we’re talking about gasoline-powered, that is a quarter of our emissions in Canada, so imagine if we’re able to draw that down to near zero.”

The proliferation of electric vehicles globally is another opportunity for Canada, said Weiler.

“We’ve brought forward our critical minerals strategy, and provinces like British Columbia are large producers of copper, so we need to expand on that and do it in a sustainable way.”

Consumer purchases of ZEVs under the new Zero Emissions Vehicle Standard will be supported by the federal government investing $2 billion in its incentives program, which offers up to $5,000 in incentives to buyers across the country. Coupled with provincial incentives, buyers in B.C. can have as much as $9,000 knocked off the price of a ZEV if they qualify.

There will also be efforts to vastly expand the public charger network in Canada.

Currently, there are more than 25,000 across the country, and the government plans to install more than 43,000 more.

EV: Continued from 6 2022), and is setting the standard for Canada.

“B.C. leads the way with zero-emissions mandates, and we can see the impact of that.

We want a model that is good practice, and to replicate that elsewhere. B.C. has for a long time been an innovator, and this is another good example of that,” he said.

“We’re not quite where Norway is, where over 80 per cent of new vehicles sold last year were zero-emissions vehicles, but we’re certainly leading in North America, and that’s why we’re seeing it’s easier to get an electric vehicle here than it is in other provinces.”

Electric vehicles are known to be more expensive than their internal-combustion counterparts—an issue acknowledged by Canadian governments, which offer incentives to early ZEV buyers to bring the price tags closer to parity. Weiler said in the long-run, ZEVs make more sense for Canadians due to lower fuel and maintenance costs, and even now are dropping in price and becoming more affordable.

Another common issue raised by critics of ZEV adoption is their higher mineral requirements. Weiler said encouraging more sustainable mining practices is an important part of the equation in decarbonizing the global economy, but dismissed a common trope that electric vehicles are somehow more damaging to the environment than their gas-powered counterparts due to the resources needed to create them.

“I categorically dismiss the notion that

PHOTO BY STEVE JACOBS

SPECTACULAR SQUAMISH: Have a photo to share? Send it to news@squamishchief.com.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024 | 7

Baha’i Faith

SQUAMISH BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY

The Earth – Our homeland We are one people on one planet. Humanity’s only homeland - the Earth!

It is through the balanced combination and cooperation of science and religion that humanity can be allowed to acquire a genuine humility and respect for Nature while applying the appropriate skills and technologies needed to advance civilization. In terms of both our spiritual growth and our common dependence on the ecosphere, we are called to be, fully and consciously, citizens of one Earth home. Our total dependence on the encompassing ecosphere reflects and reinforces our dependence on God. An attitude of awe and gratitude towards the earth is part of attaining spiritual humility.

“Every man of discernment, while walking upon the earth, feeleth indeed abashed, inasmuch as he is fully aware that the thing which is the source of his prosperity, his wealth, his might, his exaltation, his advancement and power is, as ordained by God, the very earth which is trodden beneath the feet of all men. There can be no doubt that whoever is cognizant of this truth, is cleansed and sanctified from all pride, arrogance, and vainglory.”- Bahá’u’lláh www.squamishbahais.com

8 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024 A8

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DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS • •

•

•

CHAT DROP-IN

University Reservoirs 2 & 3 - Ongoing construction.

Wastewater Treatment Plan Expansion and Improvements – Construction is underway through summer 2025 on a new secondary clarifier and concentric bioreactor. Learn more: squamish.ca/wwtp-expansion

with the

Special Guest: MP Patrick Weiler

Queens Way Lift Station Manhole – Construction continues to replace the inlet manhole and reline the wet-well. Please follow traffic control measures.

Sewer Rehabilitation – This work includes excavated and trenchless style repairs for both sanitary and storm utilities. There will be traffic and parking disturbances during this work, with signage and traffic flaggers in place.

squamish.ca/building-our-future

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WHAT’S HAPPENING

IN RECREATION AND CULTURE

MAYOR

Wednesday, January 17

Let’s Talk about Housing

Save the Date!

DEVELOPMENT REVIEW

• 1940 Centennial Way - Phase 3 - Development Permit squamish.ca/review

SIGN UP FOR REC NEWS squamish.ca/enews

Indoor Soccer | 19+ | Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. @ GHE NEW! Tai Chi - Seated

FamJam - Dance Party

This Tai Chi inspired fitness program includes soft and flowing movements designed to enhance balance, coordination and concentration.

Connect with your family and community while you experience the joy of music and movement.

With a curated playlist of upbeat tunes and interactive dance games, this program is a lively celebration that caters to all ages. Join the fun, show off your best dance moves, and create lasting memories with the ones you love!

Thursdays, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Starts January 11

Baby and Me Yoga These gentle classes will nourish and support your body as you recover from pregnancy and birth. January 12, 2-2:45 p.m.

Saturday, January 20 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

for details and registration visit: squamish.ca/rec

2024 LANDFILL TIPPING FEES

On January 2, 2024, the tipping fees at the Squamish Landfill changed to the following: Minimum Landfill Charge

$8

Commercial & Residential Waste

$232/tonne

Construction Waste and Asphalt Shingles

$232/tonne

Clean Wood and Yard Waste

$122/tonne

Dirty Wood Waste

$174/tonne

Contaminated Wood Surcharge* * if wood load is contaminated over 5% by weight or volume.

$137/tonne

Banned Materials Surcharge * * garbage containing more than 5% organics or recyclable materials.

$290/tonne

Mattresses and box springs

$22/piece

Tires with and without rims

$27 and $11 per piece respectively

Appliances requiring refrigerant removal (fridges, freezers, air conditioners)

Free

Asphalt

Free

More than 15 materials continue to be accepted for free recycling at the Landfill Recycling Depot and Transfer Station. These include cardboard (large quantities), plastic bags, books, clothing, and white foam packaging. squamish.ca/landfill

DOG LICENCE RENEWALS Make the smart decision! Get your dog’s licence before January 31 to qualify for the discounted rate.

Find your account number on your renewal notice to pay online. Visit squamish.ca/online-services for more information.

9 THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024 | A9

squamishchief.com

DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE Tuesday, January 16 at 6 p.m.

WHAT’S PROPOSED: Rezoning to facilitate the development of 26 townhomes.

PROPOSED BYLAW: District of Squamish Zoning Bylaw No. 2200, 2011 Amendment Bylaw (40279 Government Rd) No. 3004, 2023

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS: To rezone a portion of the property highlighted

4 In Writing

in black on the Location Map, from Residential 2 (RS-2) to Multiple Unit Residential 2 (RM-2) to facilitate the development of 26 townhomes.

HIGHWAY 99

OA D

40279

Deliver a written submission to hearing@squamish.ca, or drop off to the Corporate Officer at Municipal Hall before 3 p.m. on the date of the Public Hearing.

If technical issues occur for a person during the Hearing, submissions may be made by emailing hearing@squamish.ca and staff will distribute to Council and make available on the website. For those participating via telephone or electronically, the District is encouraging written submissions to be made as well.

Participate electronically through the use of the WebEx platform by Electronic Participation visiting squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings. Instruction for

participation in the WebEx virtual Public Hearing can be found at that site.

Visit squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings in advance of the scheduled Public Hearing time for:

NM

Instructions on how to set up WebEx and how to log in;

•

How to get on the speakers’ list;

•

An opportunity to test your computer’s connection to the WebEx platform.

GO

•

VER

EN

TR

40279

Persons who believe that their interest in property is affected by the proposed Zoning Amendments will have an opportunity to be heard and to present written submissions for the Public Hearing.

Written submissions may also be made during the Hearing by emailing hearing@squamish.ca. Council will not consider submissions received after the close of the Public Hearing.

LOCATION MAP:

PORTION OF THE PROPERTY

WAYS TO PARTICIPATE IN A PUBLIC HEARING

AFFECTED PORTION OF LANDS: 40279 Government Road, Squamish BC

HOW TO VIEW THE PROPOSED REZONING

By Telephone

Participate by telephone during the Public Hearing by calling 1.604.449.3026 and entering the Access Code 146 367 8438.

A copy of the proposed Bylaw and related information that has been or may be considered by Council may be inspected online or at Municipal Hall.

• squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings

Dial *3 to ‘raise your hand’ indicating that you’d like to speak. You will be placed on a speakers’ list and alerted when it is your turn to speak. You will hear a message that “your line has been unmuted” when it is your turn to speak.

•

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

37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, British Columbia, from January 4 to 16, 2024 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays.

Questions? Contact the Planning Department: 604.815.5002

In Person You may participate in person during the Hearing in Council Chambers at Municipal Hall, 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, British Columbia.

All submissions will form part of the public record.

Please note that Council may not receive further submissions received from the public or interested parties concerning the Bylaw described above after the conclusion of the Public Hearing.

This is the first of two notices of Public Hearing.

Dated this 4th day of January, 2024 at Squamish, British Columbia.

squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings

Capacity in Council Chambers is limited and so participation electronically via WebEx, or by telephone is encouraged.

Watch the meeting without speaking If you do not wish to participate but would like to watch the meeting and hear the submissions, you can do so by watching the meeting at squamish.ca/live-meetings.

10 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

CHAMBER ED CHRIS FEHR RESIGNS

NEWS

Fehr has been with the chamber as executive director since March of 2023 ANDREW HUGHES

ahughes@squamishchief.com

T

he Squamish Chamber of Commerce has announced that its relatively new executive director, Chris Fehr, has resigned.

In a news release from Friday, Dec. 22, the chamber announced that Fehr was stepping down from the role but his last day is still several months away on April 18, 2024.

“It is with a mix of sadness and gratitude that we announce that Chris Fehr has resigned as executive director of the Squamish Chamber of Commerce.

Chris joined the Squamish Chamber in March 2023 and in that short time has helped develop key strategic partnerships, advocated for the business community on several areas affecting the Sea to Sky Corridor, and generated new revenue streams,” reads the release from Catherine Webster, the president of the board of directors for the chamber.

“The board is overseeing the replacement and transition process. We will soon share more details on the job search and look forward to finding the right individual to continue the Squamish Chamber along this successful trajectory.”

The chamber wished him

squamishchief.com

DARTS & DAFFODILS Bouquet of daffodils to Dan, Katrina, Ella.

Thank you so much for your help on the golf course trail.

Mases of daffodils to the first responders who rescued me from the golf course trail.

From Grateful.

Got something nice to say or some constructive criticism? Send your Darts & Daffodils: Email: news@squamishchief.com or drop off at The Chief office (38117 Second Ave.) during business hours. Deadline for submissions is Monday at 4 p.m. for Thursday’s paper. All submissions must be signed and include a phone number for verification. Maximum length is 75 words.

Darts are intended to be an anonymous critique between private parties. Darts must not directly or indirectly identify an individual or business.

FILE SUBMITTED PHOTO

Chris Fehr.

the best in his new role but did not share details of what it was.

For more information about the chamber, visit squamishchamber.com.

PHOTO BY AAFREEN ARORA

COUNTING EAGLES: The Squamish Environment Society’s Brackendale Winter Eagle Count is on Sunday. Each year, on the first Sunday after New Year’s Day, volunteers conduct the count.

Eagle Mountain—Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project update Construction is underway on the Eagle Mountain-Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project. As part of this project, we’re building a nine-kilometre tunnel beneath the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Area. This underground tunnel solution allows us to fulfill our commitment to Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) to avoid surface impacts to the estuary. The tunnel will extend from the Woodfibre LNG site to the BC Rail site, passing under Monmouth Mountain and 25 metres below the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary waterbed. Two tunnel boring machines will be used to construct the tunnel.

We’re currently undertaking site preparation work at both the BC Rail and Woodfibre LNG sites. We’ll begin assembling the

FortisBC Energy Inc. uses the FortisBC name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (23-041.25 12/2023)

tunnel boring machines for operation underground. During this time, crews are expected to start working 24 hours a day into 2026.

We don’t expect noise levels from tunnelling to exceed construction noise levels to date.

We encourage you to reach out to the FortisBC team at egp@fortisbc.com or call 1-855-380-5784. Inquiries are monitored and will receive a timely response.

Connect with us @fortisbc

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NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024 | 11

SLRD ADOPTS NEW ENGAGEMENT POLICY

Elected officials welcome the new policy, with one lamenting a lack of trust for the organization from the community SCOTT TIBBALLS

stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

T

he Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) has officially adopted a new engagement policy which will guide the organization, its staff and elected officials through a more robust public engagement process.

The policy, along with formal training and a toolkit for staff, is part of a raft of new measures to bring the SLRD’s engagement in line with best practices provincially.

To achieve that, the new policy will follow the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) framework, which is used by member municipalities in their own engagement approaches.

The IAP2 works on a spectrum of engagement, ranging from informing people on issues to empowering the public to decide on matters itself. The new SLRD engagement policy sets out how public engagement is applied to projects and helps define where the public can, should, or must be engaged.

Speaking to the policy and the various resources developed to back it up, the SLRD’s communication and engagement manager, Patricia Westerholm, explained the rationale behind the work done, and what the SLRD heard from the public during surveys.

“It was really clear from the survey results that we have a lot of opportunities to improve our work in this space,” she said at the Dec. 14 Committee of the Whole.

“The public were not satisfied with the level of engagement opportunities that we were offering, they didn’t feel like they had a lot of communication around opportunities when they were available, and that there were not necessarily creative opportunities to engage in SLRD decisions.”

Survey results did a lot to inform the SLRD: More than 58 per cent of respondents said they don’t believe the SLRD clearly communicates its decision-making processes; more than 55 per cent said they don’t believe it adequately considers community feedback; more than 61 per cent said the SLRD doesn’t communicate what can and can’t be influenced by community input; and 47 per cent don’t believe the SLRD even welcomes the public’s input at all.

Westerholm said the survey results show the community wants to be involved and to know more about projects underway, but there are barriers to engagement ranging from lack of awareness to timing and accessibility of engagement events.

“We know obviously that the public wants opportunities to participate and provide input.

The SLRD wants to encourage and facilitate that work, and there’s lots of room to improve, so we’re looking at the opportunities to provide more opportunities for engagement,” said Westerholm, adding that newly applied online

engagement tools are already helping move the dial on that item.

The response from SLRD directors was overwhelmingly positive towards the new engagement tools and policy, with discussion kicking off on a need to balance community expectations and desire to be engaged with the SLRD’s capacity to make engagement happen—and the cost of that engagement.

Squamish Coun. Jenna Stoner articulated her thoughts by drawing on the survey results.

“The survey results are interesting in that 20 per cent believe they should be empowered on at least some topics … and another 25 per cent believe they should be involved or collaborated with. That’s a really high-level expectation of engagement … the cost, the time, the capacity to do that is huge,” she said, stressing it’s not something the SLRD shouldn’t strive for, but the district needs to balance cost against those expectations given the community’s wellknown desire to limit tax increases. “[The engagement approach is] super robust and I think it’s where we want to be, but if I think about the operational side of implementation, it’s a little bit terrifying.”

Area D director, Tony Rainbow, also indicated support, and stressed the need for a solid engagement approach.

“Building trust is one of the things this will do, and we don’t have that at the moment,” he said. “In my view, based on interactions [with the public] in Area D … we are not a trusted organization.”

Rainbow said he believes the SLRD board of directors is also not a trusted body, citing a lack of engagement with the board from the public.

“The only voice that area residents have is through their area director. They don’t know the municipal directors and they have no opportunity to engage with them or very little opportunity to engage with them, and they see you as meddling with events that they don’t want you to meddle with. That’s the kind of comment that I get to deal with,” said Rainbow, explaining he is often defending the SLRD board and explaining the role of municipal directors.

“I am forever making that sort of defense, and I shouldn’t have to, because the way that the board operates should be in a way that the people get to see that happening,” he said, adding putting board meetings online has gone a long way to improve the situation.

The SLRD started streaming and recording its various meetings online during the pandemic. Previously, meetings had to be attended in person. The meetings are most often held in Pemberton.

Rainbow said with a new engagement policy and clear framework, more can be done to educate the public on the SLRD’s role and reach, and the public’s influence over its decisions.

Area C director, Russell Mack, said he agreed, citing his own experience.

“I spend a lot of time defending the regional district with my constituents. An awful lot of them … don’t have a clue what we do here, and they’re very negative about our existence,” he said.

“I think it’s extremely important to get that positive communication out there as to what we do, and how we work together and all that kind of stuff, because people out there, for whatever reason, they don’t pay attention unless it actually affects them.

“I think it’s really important to get a positive spin out there so they know if they need to ask a question, who to come and ask and all that sort of stuff. I don’t think we’ve been very good at that over the years. We’re moving towards that, and that’s a good thing, because I think that will really help our position.”

The rest of discussion around the item hinged on setting expectations and the potential the new engagement policy has to

I think it’s really important to get a positive spin out there so they know if they need to ask a question, who to come and ask and all that sort of stuff.

RUSSELL MACK increase public education about the SLRD’s role and ability to affect change.

The board voted unanimously to approve the new engagement policy at the Dec. 14 board meeting.

Tsetspa7 Forestry LP Tsetspa7 Forest Service LP Black Mount Logging Inc. Richmond Plywood Corporation Limited In-SHUCK-ch Forestry LP Lessels May Leblanc • Leblanc Bros. Logging Ltd. Northwest Squamish Forestry Ltd. JV In-SHUCK-ch Development Corp.

A83924, A90770, A81015, A82698, A19209, A20482, A20541, A19215

Notice of Public Viewing Forest Stewardship Plan Replacement A replacement of the above noted Licensees’ Forest Stewardship Plan is proposed. Testspa7 is a First Nations owned company located within the Lower Lillooet River Valley, within the Sea to Sky Natural Resource District. This Forest Stewardship Plan covers the Tuwasus Creek, Sloquet Creek, Douglas Creek, Gowan Creek, and Rogers Creek areas.

As per Section 20 of the Forest Planning and Practices Regulation, notice is hereby given to all First Nations, Guide Outfitters, Trappers, Private Landowners, Water Users, Other Stakeholders, and the General Public to review the Forest Stewardship Plan so that your comments and concerns can be addressed.

This Forest Stewardship Plan will be available for public review and comment beginning on December 28th, 2023, for a period of 60 days.

The document can be viewed online by contacting wstaven@crgl.ca, or in person at the following locations: Chartwell Resource Group Ltd. #201 – 1121 Commercial Place, Squamish, BC V8B 0S5

Tsetspa7 Forestry LP 7338 Industrial Way Pemberton, BC V0N 2L0

Comments should be directed to Wes Staven, RPF, at Chartwell Resource Group Ltd. at (604) 390-3426.

12 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

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EDITORIAL

PLEASANTVILLE

W

e can’t always be trusted to do the right thing.

Case in point, who among us would volunteer to have a low-rise affordable housing complex go up next door rather than a single home?

Let’s face it, left to our own devices, most of us would rather live in a 1950s Pleasantville-type community with cars in every rancher’s driveway, dad mowing the lawn and kids playing in a sprinkler.

But the problem with that vision is that it leaves out too many who can’t afford it—and isn’t so great for the planet.

This isn’t to say people are bad. We mean well and understand that there is a housing crisis, but jeepers, does it have to mean our neighbourhood changes?

It does.

That is why we need policy to force the social good that benefits the whole rather than the few.

Thus, it is necessary that the provincial government is taking some housing decisions out of municipalities’ hands and imposing ‘gentle’ density.

Provincial legislation is coming into play that will eventually see sweeping housing changes in communities that boast over 5,000 people.

For example, three to four units will be allowed on lots currently zoned for single-family or duplex use.

Six units will be permitted on larger lots that are close to transit stops, thus ideally getting more folks out of their cars and onto public transit.

The government says that historic planning has meant there’s not enough middle-type housing— between single family and condo towers.

And planners and councils in community after community are shouted down by those of us who can’t see the social good past our own yards.

It is hard for members of councils and muni staff to stand their ground in the face of a small but angry group of citizens. And it’s hard to convince those who see development on the horizon that some of these big changes will be slow, but need to be started now if we are going to meet future housing needs.

“The housing crisis has made it harder for growing families looking for more space, seniors looking to downsize, and first-time home buyers who can’t find a home that meets their needs and budget,” said Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon, in a news release.

“This legislation strengthens the vibrancy of our communities, while building the type of housing that will help us address the housing crisis.”

Not to say residents should be or will be totally ignored. Residents have concerns that should be addressed—like the need for more amenities.

We will still have a say, but not in one-off meetings about individual builds.

“There will be more frequent opportunities for people to be involved in shaping their communities earlier in the process when official community plans are updated,” the gov says.

Ultimately, as in the Pleasantville movie, we may find that change, though unwelcome, can be positive.

IS ONTARIO JUST LIKE SQUAMISH? EDITOR’S NOTEBOOK

JENNIFER THUNCHER

O

ne of the many tasks I find rewarding in my job as editor is getting to judge journalism awards in other provinces.

Over the Christmas holidays, I judged the editorial category—staff opinion pieces—entered in the Ontario Community Newspapers Association Better Newspapers Competition.

It is a provincial competition akin to our BC & Yukon Community NewsMedia Association Ma Murray Awards , for which journalists, including us, are currently entering our best pieces from 2023.

(Winners announced this spring.)

For the Ontario awards I am judging, the pieces were published in 2023, in community newspapers with a circulation size that is about the same as The Squamish Chief; thus, it is like judging our sister papers.

It is inspiring to see the brave work being written by our colleagues. I always come away with ideas for my own opinion pieces.

Reading this batch, I also thought about how lucky Squamish is not to have had the problems described in some other communities. There was one piece about the 1959 Listowel Memorial Arena

collapse that killed two adults and seven boys playing hockey. That is quite a history to overcome.

Then there are the more current problems some face, such as the closure of factories, hospital emergency rooms, and community centres.

Glad we aren’t facing those issues.

Mostly, though, it is fascinating to see that so many other towns face the same challenges as Squamish.

Reporters at hyper-local publications like ours can become myopic. The gripes and joys start to feel very unique to us.

Some characteristics indeed make Squamish distinctive, like our intense climbing scene, windsport highs and woes, and our ever-popular biking network.

But most local complaints are repeated in towns of our size throughout Ontario.

There were editorials about traffic and speeding concerns, others about growing communities feeling the strain of more people, worry about the Meta ban on news, and pontification over the homelessness epidemic.

There were also commendable pieces that took on the lack of transparency from school boards and the RCMP, and others that called out the behaviour of some on council.

There were great pieces calling out policy that is trying to be so woke it is wrong, and others hoping NOTEBOOK: Continued on 13

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Ha7lh skwálwen cht kwis emút cht iy sts’its’áp’ cht iy kw’shétsut cht na7tkwa temíxw tl’a Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (We have good feelings that we live, we work and we play on the lands of the Squamish Nation)

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REFLECTING ON SQUAMISH: The estuary is looking very spring like, though it is winter.

SHOULD I SET SOME GOALS OR RESOLUTIONS FOR 2024?

GUEST COLUMN

KARINA INKSTER

T

is the season for many of us to consider settings goals for 2024. Here are three reasons you may want to commit to habits, instead: 1. Goals can reduce the happiness you feel right now.

When you’re working toward a goal, you’re essentially saying: “I’ll be happy as soon as I achieve X.” Focusing on smaller habits, rather than the goal itself, will help you to enjoy the day-to-day process of working toward a goal. It will also keep you grounded in the present, instead of focusing all your energy on the future.

2. When we fail to achieve a certain goal, we often feel bad

NOTEBOOK: Continued from 12 for more acceptance in the face of anti-trans rhetoric.

These are all things we can relate to in Squamish.

As I turned in my final scores, I vowed to aim in 2024, as we do here each year, for our writing to be brave, to give voice to the voiceless, to call a spade a spade, to offer solutions and

about ourselves, even if we’ve made immense progress.

Focusing on daily habits instead of on a particular outcome lets you notice and appreciate small wins: incremental steps toward achieving your bigger goal. This way, even if you don’t achieve your ultimate outcome, you can still appreciate your progress.

3. Goals can be overwhelming.

“Write a book” or “lose 30 pounds” can seem too daunting to even begin. When we do try to work toward a lofty goal, we often start out working so hard and so intensely that we give up within a few weeks.

“Write one page a day” or “walk 15 minutes per day” sounds (and is) much more manageable than “write a book” or “lose 30 pounds.” You’ll still get results – probably even better ones than if you’d committed to an abstract goal instead of a habit or process – minus the stress and overwhelm.

Karina Inkster is a qathet region health and fitness coach, author of five books, and host of the No-B.S. Vegan podcast.

celebrate wins, and to work through our stories to make readers in Squamish feel less alone in their problems.

Hopefully, we will sometimes entertain or make you laugh, too.

I don’t need to ask you to hold us to account, because I know our readers do—and we love you for it.

Happy New Year from our newsroom to your smartphone, laptop or iPad.

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.

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AREN’T THEY SUPPOSED TO BE SLEEPING?: UNDERSTANDING BLACK BEAR HIBERNATION

After reports of an active bear den in town, biologist Vanessa Isnardy sheds light on bear behaviour during hibernation season

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief.com

R

ecently, the Conservation Officer Service warned residents to avoid Squamish’s Mount Crumpit trails due to an “active” bear den in the area.

But aren’t black bears supposed to be hibernating? And what is hibernation anyway?

The Squamish Chief turned to independent consultant and biologist—and former Squamish resident—Vanessa Isnardy for some answers.

What follows is a version of that exchange edited for length and clarity.

Q: Why do bears hibernate?

A: Hibernation is an adaptation that many animals use to deal with food scarcity and lower temperatures. Unlike deer and moose that chew their cud—aka ruminants— and can survive winters on twigs and shrubs, bears require more nutrient-rich foods as their digestive systems are much simpler.

On the coast, bears will become lethargic and enter their dens to hibernate around November to December.

During this hibernation period, a black bear’s heart rate may drop to 10 beats per minute, and their body temperature drops about 3 C. During this time, they do not eat, drink, urinate or defecate. They may occasionally rouse, adjust their bedding, and return to sleep. In late January or early February, pregnant females will give birth to hairless and blind cubs weighing only about 400 g. She will nurse and care for them until they emerge in late April. Bears without offspring may emerge earlier in April.

Q: Where are dens in Squamish usually?

A: Their dens are often in the cavity of a large diameter tree, or they may also use a fallen log or shrub pile, rock cavity, or they may excavate their own.

Dens can be hard to spot, especially when they are covered in snow. Early in the season, the area will look disturbed as bedding has been gathered, and the entrance may have claw or bite marks. The inquisitive nature of dogs may lead to them discovering a bear den before the owner.

Along with the year-long presence of wolves and cougars in the Squamish area, it is always best to keep our pets on established trails with us and on a leash.

High-quality black bear dens, such as the cavities of large trees, should be protected whenever possible, as they may be reused.

PHOTO BY CARLOS CARRENO/GETTY IMAGES

A bear pokes its head out of its winter den.

While black bears may hibernate in valley bottoms, grizzly bears tend to hibernate at higher elevations. Coastal grizzly bears may use tree cavities like black bears or dig under an old tree and use the root mass as a roof. Farther inland, grizzly bears will seek steep north-facing slopes and dig horizontally into the face. They prefer soils suitable for digging with matted vegetation to create a stable roof and thick, insulating snow. Unlike black bears, grizzly bears rarely reuse the same den, but may return to the same area if the conditions are ideal.

Q: Do bear families have a den together, or is it usually just a sow and her cubs or a bear alone?

A: Male bears are not involved in raising cubs and always hibernate alone when mature.

In fact, male bears are known to kill cubs to force females back into estrus [fertility] so they can mate.

Black bear cubs will stay with their mothers throughout the summer and den

with her another winter. For grizzly bears, they often den together for a third winter.

Q: How is hibernation different for black bears than other wild animals?

A: Some may confuse hibernation and torpor.

Many animals, such as hummingbirds and bats, undergo daily torpor—conserving energy at night by reducing their metabolic rate and body temperature and returning to foraging during the day. Animals that undergo repeated bouts of torpor over long periods and rely on energy reserves are considered hibernators.

Bears rely on their fat reserves, while smaller animals may gather food reserves and hibernate differently.

Chipmunks will undergo torpor over the winter in their dens but will also rouse to eat some of their stored food. If they have abundant food stores or a milder climate, they may not go into torpor as often.

Torpor and hibernation should be considered continuums along a spectrum

with many variations in strategies and timings, not only amongst species but along climatic conditions.

Q: How can humans disrupt local black bears’ hibernation?

A: If bears continue to have easy access to food, either through unsecured garbage, compost, fruit or bird seed, then this may delay hibernation. Occasionally, some bears may stay active late into December and early January. This leads to humanbear conflicts, which can put both people and bears at risk. Bears may also rouse in early spring to check conditions. They may re-enter their dens and return to hibernating if they don’t like what they see. It is important not to disturb bears while they are in their dens and to be aware that they can be woken from their sleep. Female bears may also defend their vulnerable cubs that cannot run away or climb trees to escape potential predators—this includes humans and our canine companions.

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024 | 15

JENNA STONER NEW HOSPITAL BOARD CHAIR Local councillor takes the helm from Whistler Coun. Jen Ford SCOTT TIBBALLS

stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

T

he Sea to Sky Regional Hospital District (SSRHD) has seen a reshuffle at the top, with the chair and vice chair switching places at the Dec. 13 board meeting.

Whistler Councillor Jen Ford, who has served as chair of the board for the last five years, has passed the torch to Squamish Councillor Jenna Stoner, who steps into the role after a year as vice chair.

“While health-care delivery is very much the responsibility of the provincial government, Regional Hospital Districts are a unique entity that aim to advocate and deliver on local health-care priorities within the region,” said Stoner in an email.

“I sought this role because health-care is such a critical issue across the Sea to Sky and I believe that the SSRHD can play an important role in advocating for local priorities and building strong partnerships to deliver on those priorities.”

Stoner said she hopes to continue the SSRHD’s direction over the last few years in

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Jenna Stoner.

building relationships with Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), local health-care delivery partners, and other regional hospital districts to improve healthcare needs and

delivery.

“I hope to build on this work, so that we can help to realize some of the immediate space and equipment needs in the corridor. VCH is in the midst of their Sea to Sky Master Planning process, so I also see that as a big opportunity in the coming year to work together to define short-, medium- and long-term needs across the Sea to Sky.” Securing a new CT scanner at Squamish General Hospital and getting more office space at the Pemberton Health Centre are two of the projects Stoner sees as priorities.

Stoner was acclaimed as the new board chair at the Dec. 13 meeting, with now-former chair Jen Ford acclaimed as vice chair.

“I think it’s a good time for [Stoner] to step into the role and share some of the load,” said Ford.

“We’ve done a lot of really great work with Vancouver Coastal Health and the Hospital District, and with all of the foundations in the corridor, so it just made sense.”

She highlighted progress made building relationships with other regional boards, and securing a trauma room at the Whistler Health Care Centre as items she is most proud of in her time as chair.

Ford served as chair from 2019 to 2023—the same years she was working closely with, and

I hope to build on this work, so that we can help to realize some of the immediate space and equipment needs in the corridor.

JENNA STONER

then on the executive of, the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.

Ford currently serves as past president with UBCM, while Stoner was recently elected as third vice president there.

The Sea to Sky Regional Hospital District, which includes Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, and the SLRD’s Areas C and D (around Pemberton and down to Britannia Beach) exists to borrow funds and finance construction projects and equipment purchases at health-care facilities within the hospital district boundary.

Britannia Mine Museum gratefully acknowledges their community sponsors:

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CEDAR PIDGEON WINS CANADIAN CHAMPIONSHIP The 17-year-old local also placed tenth at Youth Worlds in South Korea DAVID SONG

dsong@wplpmedia.com

C

edar Pidgeon loves to climb. She’s pretty good at it too.

The Squamish native rose up to become 2023’s Canadian National Lead Climbing Champion in her age group, besting runner-up Sophie Buitendyk and bronze medallist Molly Dreher. It was a hotly-contested final at the Richmond Olympic Oval, with all three female podium finishers unable to secure their 39th hold. Yet Cedar had outperformed her opponents in the semifinals, netting her gold.

“Hard work actually gets you places,” she said. “If you’re willing to put in the time and the effort and the—I don’t want to say dedication because it’s a little bit cringy, but yes, dedication—then you can actually achieve your goals. It’s a good milestone for me and I’m excited for future training and competitions at that level.”

Cedar remarks that she started climbing virtually as soon as she could walk. She loves it because of its versatility: unlike other sports, which can involve repetitive movements and activities, climbing presents a dynamic challenge based on the discipline and venue at hand. Lead climbers, boulderers and speed athletes must excel at different skills, and the various indoor gyms on Earth are supplemented—and usually upstaged—by nature’s wealth of mountains and rocky faces.

Some people focus on the regimented indoor competitive side of climbing, but Cedar makes sure to branch out.

“I think having a dual relationship with climbing inside and outside is really healthy for my involvement with the sport,” she said.

“It keeps me from plateauing mentally. A lot of my really, really close friends in climbing, they do both. I can climb with them in competitions and try to be on the same level as them, but then we can also go outside, screw around and just enjoy nature.”

LIKE MOTHER, LIKE DAUGHTER Thomasina Pidgeon, Cedar’s mom, began climbing in her mid-to-late twenties but didn’t enter her first contest until her forties. That’s indeed an exceptionally late start, but the elder Pidgeon doesn’t regret her path as climbing has taken her from Europe to

PHOTO BY JIWOONG HONG

Squamish climber Cedar Pidgeon reaches for a handhold.

Australia to the United States. It’s also given her a common language with her now 17-year-old daughter.

“Cedar works really hard,” said Thomasina.

“It wasn’t always like that—when she was younger, she just climbed for fun. But lately, in the last year and a half, she’s been a lot more focused than she was before, and I think she’s perhaps more inspired by paying attention to other climbers that are on, say, the World Cup circuit.”

One of Cedar’s formative international experiences took place at the International Federation of Sport Climbing Youth World Championships in South Korea. She’d written herself a note at eight years of age expressing her desire to attend that very event, and it came to fruition last August with a tenth-place effort.

Not a shabby way to fulfill a childhood dream.

“It was really fun, really rewarding,” Cedar said. “It was my goal that whole year, so I was really happy when I qualified [with a bronze medal at the Canadian Youth National Championships]. Going to Korea was really fun because I just got to bond with the rest of the team and climb among a bunch of other kids my age from all around the world.”

“She’s done better than I ever have,” admitted Thomasina with a laugh. “It’s cool to see her become more confident and believe in herself more. I think that kind of thinking just translates to everything else, and success breeds success. She learns from other people’s mistakes really easily. People make mistakes all the time, especially in climbing, and you can [pick up on it] if you pay attention.”

According to Thomasina, who is both parent and coach to her only child, Cedar once held a bit of a fixed mindset with regard to sport. Yet learning to think outside the box and improve on her weaknesses had paid dividends. The two enjoy a harmonious relationship, albeit one occasionally marked by the normal arguments between mother and daughter.

“My mom is one of the people who has had a huge impact on me,” said Cedar. “I mean, she’s the reason I started climbing and she’s been my coach for my whole life, but more recently, she’s been more involved.”

There are many routes that the young Squamolian can take from here, both on and off the wall. She isn’t ready to commit fully to a professional career, but hopes to take a run at the World Cup in the future.

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604.892.9161 AD RATES REGULAR CLASSIFIED ADS 3 Lines $9.00 - Each additional Line $2.50 BIRTHDAY AND ANNIVERSARY 1X4 - $31 GARAGE SALES $25.00 INCLUDES KIT WITH SIGNS, BALLOONS, DIRECTIONS AND CLASSIFIED AD. BOLD, ALL CAPS, WORDS, UNDERLINED, CENTERED ADS: $1.50 Per Line

BOOK YOUR AD

604.892.9161 classified@squamishchief.com

OR IN PERSON DEADLINE MONDAY 4:00 PM

REQUIREMENTS:

• Valid Class V BC Driver’s License • Criminal Record Check

Please send resume to info@atwelldental.com

604-849-2296 squamishchief.com

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WOULD HAVE:

• Self-motivated • Organized • Fluent in spoken and written English

Position available: previous dental/medical reception experience preferred.

• Proactive Building Manager

LOOKING FOR AN AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICE

WOULD BE INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY AND IS:

Dental Reception/ Administration

• Pet Friendly Complex

DIAMOND HEAD MOTORS • A good work ethic • Their own tools • A high school diploma

CLASSIFIEDS.SQUAMISHCHIEF.COM CRAFT FAIRS/BAZAARS CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

• Near Bus, Shopping & Schools

CLASSIFIEDS.SQUAMISHCHIEF.COM

Free ad design, colour and options. Contact a sales rep today.

EMPLOYMENT

• Common Laundry & Storage

EMPLOYMENT

Get the added punch to make your business ad standout with a classified display ad.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024 | 17

This position is full time.

Benefits include medical and dental.

Please email your resume to: dhmaccounting@yahoo.com.

We would like to thank all applicants; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Currently Hiring:

Vacasa’s forward-thinking approach and industry-leading technology help set us apart as the largest full-service vacation rental company in North America.

We are seeking individuals with a passion for providing exceptional vacation experiences for our Owners and Guests.

We offer competitive wages and benefits: Travel allowance for Squamish/Pemberton-based employees OR Ski Pass/Activity allowance, Extended Medical, RRSP match, Fun & Safe Work Environment-Great Team, opportunities to grow and more.

Housekeeping Supervisor (**SIGNING BONUS** $1000 FT) $24.50 per hour

Owner Relations Manager (Full-Time, Year-Round) Annual Salary $55,000

Guest Service Agent (Full-Time, Year-Round) $23.25 per hour

Apply online today! https://www.vacasa.com/careers/positions or email: paul.globisch@vacasa.com or call to find out more details at 604-698-0520 We thank all applicants for their interest but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Certified Heavy Duty Mechanic, Certified Commercial Truck Mechanic, 3rd or 4th year Heavy Duty Apprentice $40-$50 per hr. depending on experience and extended benefits after 3 months

Must have a valid BC driver’s license.

Send resume to kelly@kjcltd.ca or call 604-892-7874

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER.

TAKE A BREAK

18 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

ACROSS 1. Like some cheese 5. Beast of burden 8. Ran 12. Babble 13. Actor Costello 14. Drama part 15. Musical staff symbol 16. Hairdo 17. Shaft 18. Right-minded 19. Citified 21. Sleeve 23. Run away 27. Snapshot 30. Strike suddenly 31. Host Leno 32. Lenient 33. Resound 35. Astound 36. Valuable dirt 37. Small cask 38. Foot woes 40. More taut

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Pen Examine Kind of rug Mix Charged atom Clock Minute amount Signal yes No good Promising Hazardous curve Blushing colors

DOWN 1. Circle sections 2. Grand party 3. ____-steven 4. Beat 5. Record 6. Tart 7. Solar ray 8. Former French coin 9. Smoked salmon 10. Pipe joint

Sandra or Ruby Appearance Granny’s chair Partly open Chess piece Storm centers Parcel Rabbit’s cousin Yoked animals Sharp turn Leading lady Pearl maker Mist Passes along Hisses Bee house In the thick of Firms up Lancelot’s title Also ____ a living!

March 21-April 19

LIBRA

Even if you’ve just returned from vacation, you’ll hear about a group trip that could interest you. You could also consider going on a romantic getaway with your significant other.

Sept. 23-Oct. 22

TAURUS April 20-May 20

May 21-June 20

Oct. 23-Nov. 21

Nov. 22-Dec. 21

Dec. 22-Jan. 19

A professional or personal proposal will require careful consideration. What’s more, your doctor may suggest new treatments that are far more effective for your well-being.

AQUARIUS

You’ll feel the urge to refresh your wardrobe and improve your appearance to boost your self-confidence. You need to enhance your self-esteem if only to advance in your career.

Jan. 20-Feb. 18

Stress can be good for you. It’ll give you the motivation and strength you need to finish all your projects. Don’t forget to relax and rest after this intense time.

PISCES

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22

Get ready for a busy week! You’ll take concrete steps forward on a certain project. You’ll clarify certain aspects of your love life and be exceptionally passionate with your partner or a potential new flame.

CAPRICORN

Choosing a fulfilling career is crucial to safeguarding your health. You’ll suddenly be inspired to explore new ways to improve your situation.

LEO July 23-Aug. 22

You’ll receive positive news about a career advancement.

You may have the chance to take on new challenges that will motivate and greatly enrich you.

SAGITTARIUS

Despite having numerous obligations, you’ll be tasked with organizing an event that brings together many people, with a focus on pleasure and conviviality. In your love life, you might find your soulmate and make big plans.

CANCER June 21-July 22

You may spend a great deal of time driving your children or loved ones to various activities or attending your own commitments. You might even consider changing your vehicle for one that’s more comfortable or performs better.

SCORPIO

You must take the time to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision that could turn your life upside down.

Change will be good for you.

GEMINI

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.

SCRIBBLE BOX

HOROSCOPE WEEK OF JANUARY 4, 2024 - JANUARY 10, 2024 ARIES

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.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS:

A family situation will take up a good chunk of your time. This is also a good time to consider buying a property or planning some major renovation work on your home.

Feb. 19-March 20

A new professional challenge will present itself to you. This will have a positive impact on your future. You’ll have to deal with a glaring lack of time. However, this will push you to get more organized.

The Parish of

YOUR PLACE OF

St. John , the Divine Squamish

Holy Communion and Morning Worship

Sundays at 10:00 AM Rev. Cameron Gutjahr

1930 Diamond Road 604-898-5100 www.squamishanglicanchurch.ca info@squamishanglicanchurch.ca

Exalting Jesus, Equipping His Followers, Engaging the World

Worship Service Sundays 10am on our website and Facebook Live

Coram Deo

Reformed Presbyterian Church

2262 Read Cres.

604-898-3737

2:00 Lord’s Day Worship Service Held at Centrepoint (United Church) 38014 Fourth Ave

www.squamishbaptistchurch.org

Coramdeorpc.org

See Website for Service times and location

Share your PLACE OF WORSHIP with Squamish for $10.25/week - Call today to book your spot 604.892.9161

squamishchief.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024 | 19

PHOTO COURTESY OF EVELYN SCHELLENBERG

THE GIVING KIND: The Squamish Women’s Hockey Academy Holiday Cup Food drive gathered so much food that two vehicles were needed in order to drop all of it off at the food bank, said Schellenberg, who founded the academy. This fundraiser was part of the first women’s academy hockey tournament, held Dec. 6, 13, and 20. “It was a very close race, but the green team slightly edged out the red team and filled their net, so they got the goal to start the final game, where they ended up winning the cup,” Schellenberg added.

Thank you!

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/38117 Second Ave/ Downtown Squamish

Abigail & Mae

Asher

Bryce

Diego

Erik

Isabel

Jamie & Olivia

Jonah

Keinan & Liam

Lilly

Mya

Neela

Olive

Peter

Terry

Thomas

Viena, Sela & Mac

Zach

20 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024 A20

9

squamishchief.com

99

Beef Strıploın Steak

lb

Grass Fed, Fresh, 22.02/kg

Kettle Brand Potato Chıps

ea

Selected Varieties, 50g

Tree Island Yogurt Selected Varieties, 325g

Selected Varieties, 198g

4

10

99

3$ for

3

99

Good Leaf Farms Mıcrogreens

ea

Tofıno Kombucha

Selected Varieties, 355ml

5

2$

for

detox

PRESCRIPTIONS WHILE YOU SHOP 8am to 6pm, 7 days a week, 604.892.0226

See all of our flyer offers online. nestersmarket.com

Fresh new beginnings are in the air! Give your body and its hardworking systems a much-needed refresh. If you want to give your organs and organ systems a little seasonal pick-me-up, Nesters has whole body cleanses that range from 7 to 30 days. All designed to help you eliminate harmful toxins and achieve optimum health and wellness.

On sale now.

Nesters Market Squamish 710 1200 Hunter Place, 604.815.0733 Prices effective at Squamish Nesters from Thursday, Jan 4 to Jan 10, 2023. We reserve the right to limit quantities.

Sale limited to stock on hand. Some items subject to tax, plus deposit, recycling fee where applicable.