Pique Newsmagazine 2747

NOVEMBER 19, 2020 ISSUE 27.47

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NOT-SO-KILLER KITTIES

THE MYSTERY OF MOUNTAIN DESPITE DECADES OF RESEARCH, MYTH

LIONS AND FEAR STILL SURROUND THE ANIMALS

14

PART AND PARCEL

The RMOW is

investing $10 million into housing

15

PROPOSED BUDGET

Council unveils

budget for 2021, including tax increase

40

MAKING WAVES

Sci-fi drama set to

screen at the virtual Whistler Film Festival

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THIS WEEK IN PIQUE

36

40

32 The mystery of mountain lions Despite decades of research, myth and fear still surround the animals. - By Sarah Gilman/High Country News

14

PART AND PARCEL

Hoping to address gridlock

28

BUDGET ON TRACK

The Village of

on Whistler Housing Authority waitlists, the municipality is investing $10

Pemberton’s annual finances are weathering the pandemic’s impacts

million to advance resident housing on Parcel A in Cheakamus Crossing.

according to its third-quarter reports.

15

36

DOLLARS AND SENSE

Council presents its

SNOW DAYS

The coaching staff at the Whistler

proposed budget for 2021, which includes a property tax hike to 4.89 per

Nordic Development Centre is preparing its 10 athletes for an uncertain

cent—but non-tax losses due to COVID-19 are lower than were projected.

winter at Whistler Olympic Park.

22

40

BUSINESS HEALTH

Local business The

MAKING WAVES

Between Waves, a sci-fi drama

Green Moustache was tapped to take part in a national study looking at

about travelling through parallel universes, is set to screen at the virtual

employee and business health during the pandemic.

Whistler Film Festival next month.

COVER In their elusiveness, mountain lions prove that old notion that we tend to fear what we don’t fully understand, and I think that’s even more reason to get to know them better (from a distance, of course). - gettyimages.ca 4 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

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THIS WEEK IN PIQUE

Opinion & Columns 08 OPENING REMARKS We are facing a larger-than-historical property tax increase this coming

#103 -1390 ALPHA LAKE RD., FUNCTION JUNCTION, WHISTLER, B.C. V8E 0H9.

PH: (604) 938-0202 FAX: (604) 938-0201 www.piquenewsmagazine.com

financial year thanks in part to the pandemic. Make it a point of educating yourself about Whistler’s budget.

Founding Publishers KATHY & BOB BARNETT

10 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR A letter writer this week observes snow play in a local

Publisher SARAH STROTHER - sstrother@wplpmedia.com

neighbourhood and takes heart from it as we continue to suffer under COVID-19 restrictions.

Editor CLARE OGILVIE - edit@piquenewsmagazine.com

13 PIQUE’N YER INTEREST Writer Brandon Barrett weighs in on the importance of

Assistant Editor ALYSSA NOEL - arts@piquenewsmagazine.com Sales Manager SUSAN HUTCHINSON - shutchinson@wplpmedia.com

transparency around COVID-19 in Whistler as the resort seeks to manage its message.

Production Manager KARL PARTINGTON - kpartington@wplpmedia.com

58 MAXED OUT Max catches up with the latest on the inquiry into money laundering in B.C. and finds

Art Director JON PARRIS - jparris@wplpmedia.com Advertising Representatives

the tale so far almost unbelievable.

AMY ALLEN - aallen@wplpmedia.com TESSA SWEENEY - tsweeney@wplpmedia.com

Environment & Adventure

Digital/Sales Coordinator AMELA DIZDARIC - traffic@wplpmedia.com Production production@piquenewsmagazine.com LOU O’BRIEN - lstevens@wplpmedia.com Arts & Entertainment Editor ALYSSA NOEL arts@piquenewsmagazine.com

31 RANGE ROVER Leslie Anthony tells us about probably the best COVID-19 recovery plan so far—the

Sports Editor DAN FALLOON - sports@piquenewsmagazine.com

Clean Coast, Clean Waters initiative to clean up marine debris and plastic waste from the central coast.

Features Editor BRANDON BARRETT - bbarrett@piquenewsmagazine.com Reporters

Lifestyle & Arts

BRADEN DUPUIS - bdupuis@piquenewsmagazine.com BRANDON BARRETT - bbarrett@piquenewsmagazine.com MEGAN LALONDE - mlalonde@wplpmedia.com

38 FORK IN THE ROAD Glenda Bartosh writes that exploring new and unusual recipes is a great

Classifieds and Reception mail@piquenewsmagazine.com

way to hit back at pandemic boredom and rev up your taste buds.

Office and Accounts Manager HEIDI RODE - hrode@wplpmedia.com

44 MUSEUM MUSINGS Never have so many lifts been built on the mountains than in the ‘80s. This

I.T. and Webmaster KARL PARTINGTON Contributors G.D. MAXWELL, GLENDA BARTOSH, MICHAEL ALLEN, FEET BANKS, LESLIE ANTHONY, ALLEN BEST, ALISON TAYLOR, VINCE SHULEY, LISA RICHARDSON

week’s column gives you the inside scoop.

President, Whistler Publishing LP SARAH STROTHER - sstrother@wplpmedia.com Pique Newsmagazine (a publication of Whistler Publishing Limited Partnership, a division of Glacier Media) distributed to over 130 locations in Whistler and to over 200 locations from Vancouver to D’arcy.

The entire contents of Pique Newsmagazine are copyright 2019 by Pique Newsmagazine (a publication of WPLP, a division of Glacier Media). No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the express written permission of the Publisher.

In no event shall unsolicited material subject this publication to any claim or fees. Copyright in letters and other (unsolicited) materials submitted and accepted for publication remains with the author but the publisher and its licensees may freely reproduce them in print, electronic or other forms.

Letters to the Editor must contain the author’s name, address and daytime telephone number. Maximum length is 250 words. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject any contribution. Letters reflect the opinion of the writer and not that of Pique Newsmagazine.

Pique Newsmagazine is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact (edit@ piquenewsmagazine.com). If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil. ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

This organization replaces the BC Press council (and any mention of it).

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OPENING REMARKS

The business of the budget MOST OF US CAN quantify how the pandemic has hit us in a personal sense.

There have been hard tangible impacts such as job losses, but there have also been impacts to our emotional intelligence that we may not know the full shock of for months and years to come.

Since March, we have ridden a roller coaster hoping that the end of this pandemic is just around the corner, or a vaccine is on

BY CLARE OGILVIE edit@piquenewsmagazine.com

the horizon (and this is looking a bit more hopeful now), but the ride is continuing and we cannot escape the costs of it.

That became apparent on a municipal level this week as residents had a chance

to what they suspected might be ahead and cut the proposed budget $12.7 million by scrapping projects or changing their scope. Now, these many months later and with COVID-19 still impacting us, the 2021 budget is a reflection of that.

It should be noted that at that time, the municipality was projecting that the nontax losses might be as much as $11 million.

And as virus cases surge in B.C., and Whistler faces a mini-lockdown in our health region, there is grave concern for the resort just days away from Whistler Blackcomb’s opening day.

The damage potential comes on two fronts: People won’t travel here due to regional restrictions, and, as more and more residents get the virus and are unable to work for up to two weeks, Whistler businesses will be hammered from a staffing perspective.

We also know that above all the resort needs to send a message of transparency

[A]s virus cases surge in B.C., and Whistler faces a mini-lockdown in our health region, there is grave concern for the resort just days away from Whistler Blackcomb’s opening day. to consider the proposed municipal budget plans for 2021.

At an open house held virtually on Nov. 16, there was no hiding from how the pandemic will impact our bottom line, as municipal staff told us that we took at least a $5.4-million dollar hit thanks to a drop in tourism and other non-tax impacts.

Back in May, the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) pivoted in reaction

and trust to those whom we hope will come here this winter season.

Travellers must know that we are facing the pandemic head-on with measures on every front to tackle it and keep them, as well as all who call Whistler home, as safe as we can. People must know that every business is following protocols from the provincial health officer and that frontline staff (and those in the back, too) is on board

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with the health measures.

Under the surface, meanwhile, the job of running the resort must continue and as part of this, staff is recommending a 4.89-per-cent increase in property taxes in 2021, significantly larger than the 2.8 per cent we saw for this year and the 2.9 in 2019.

However, it is likely it might have been much larger if Whistler’s reserves were not being called upon to help pay for budget items and shore up needed spending.

It may seem a small detail but the water pipes, sewer system—all the nuts and bolts of running this resort, which in a normal year sees more than 3 million visitors— depend on upgrades funded out of the reserves, so maintaining a tight handle on them is absolutely necessary for the longterm health of the community.

There are scores of projects in the proposed budget—take the time to look for yourself at www.whistler.ca/ budgetopenhouse.

There are big-ticket items such as the proposed spending on new employeerestricted housing, the public washrooms and the EV charging system, but there are also smaller items such as the tennis court reconstruction ($20,000), the upgrades to kennels at WAG ($90,000), and upgrades to the bus shelters.

Many of us use the shelters while travelling and though in recent years they appear to have been targeted less frequently by vandals, the upgrade will feature less glass. There are also proposed new shelters in Emerald with an eye to expanding services—that’s good news.

Everyone is focused on COVID-19 and its impacts right now, but our town’s budget is a cornerstone document and deserves consideration by all.

Take the time to consider it and give your feedback. n

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9

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dr. Bonnie Henry on masks and COVID-19 British Columbians have been nimble in adapting their individual actions to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities over the last 10 months, and it has had a big impact.

Our actions have helped keep our hospitals, schools and workplaces open—and protect the ones we love.

Such essential actions include maintaining a safe distance from others, cleaning our hands and staying home if we get sick. Using masks appropriately is another important example of an individual act that results in a collective good. Each of these is a layer of protection to guard against a virus that never rests.

Some people are asking when we will see masks mandated in B.C. The answer is that they already are. The mandate to use masks appropriately is a cornerstone of businesses’ and organizations’ COVID-19 safety plans, and is embedded in our healthcare facilities’ operational policies and restart protocols in other public institutions.

Despite how it might appear when we watch the news or go on social media, research shows that most of us in B.C. are doing the right things most of the time. Ordering universal mask use in all situations creates

unnecessary challenges with enforcement and stigmatization. We need only look at the COVID19 transmission rates in other jurisdictions that have tried using such orders to see what little benefit these orders by themselves have served. We also know that when orders and fines are in place, it is racialized people and those living in poverty or homeless who are most often targeted.

Each day, we are continuing to learn more about the virus and how it spreads. Right now, we are seeing rapid transmission in social gatherings where masks would not be

worn anyway, in certain workplaces and risky indoor settings, like group fitness activities.

Provincial health officer orders are always a last resort and we have used them carefully to address these recent trends.

The orders we have in place now complement our clear and expressed expectation that people will wear masks in indoor public places like shopping malls, stores, on ferries and transit.

Our orders also mandate that businesses and workplaces must have COVID-19 safety plans in place. These should include maskwearing in addition to: barriers; reduced

numbers of people in spaces; screening of workers and the public; and availability of hand cleaning and sanitation. Staff and customers must abide by these plans and businesses must offer virtual, online or contactless alternatives to customers who cannot wear a mask. COVID-19 safety plans are enforceable and something businesses and workplaces now plan for and have in place, in accordance with our orders.

We know that people want to do the right thing when they understand the reasons behind our thinking and have the tools they need to do what is asked of them. Mask use is important, and we need everyone to have the same understanding of our expectations.

Wearing a mask will never eliminate all risks, but it is a significant part of the layers of protection that can help protect us, our loved ones and our community. Now more than ever, it is a measure we must all take.

An order can never replace our personal commitment. We need to be responsible for our own actions—that is how we all pull together. I wear a mask, and I expect each of you who can to wear one, too.

Dr. Bonnie Henry // Provincial Health Officer

Take time to recognize the efforts of local health workers RE: “Upcoming weeks ‘critical’ for Whistler to get handle on COVID,” Pique, Nov. 12—while there is much for each of us to consider during what we hope is the final peak of this pandemic, one of Dr. Karen Kausky’s

Mahalo to everyone for continuing your efforts to stay safe by wearing masks & social distancing.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR comments [in the article] bears repeating: “We’ve also had a massive increase in the amount of testing that we’re doing, which is really difficult in a small community with not a lot of practitioners.”

Take a moment to consider how busy the Whistler Medical Clinic staff and its six doctors are during normal times, then add another 70 COVID-19 tests a day.

Recently, staff and physicians from the Whistler Health Care Centre and Town Plaza Medical Centre have been able to help with COVID-19 testing. Still, the pandemic is generating a lot of stress on our local healthcare system.

Let’s recognize the good work these people are doing.

Bob Barnett // Whistler

A slice of Whistler Rosemary and I were walking back home from a trip to the grocery store when we came upon four young guys in a small park. With all the great new snow, but the ski lifts not open, and itching to do something, they had built a miniature ski-rail.

They were taking turns being the skier with the other three doing any maintenance needed after each daring ride along the rail.

When we came along, the next skier was sitting down in the trees, on the steep slope beside the park. As far as I could judge things, everyone had made a few runs and they were on Round 3 or 4.

I re-positioned myself for the action and waited to see how the skier performed. He successfully completed a 180. Not bad for preseason tricks.

The world will survive, despite an electionloser or pandemics.

David Malaher // Whistler

Helping those with dementia prepare for the holidays The winter season brings along with it many different festivals and holidays and, for many Whistler residents, socializing with family, friends and our wider community. The current COVID-19 situation is presenting new

challenges and uncertainty to what can be an already stressful time—a feeling that is even more acute for people affected by dementia.

Remembering a grandchild’s name, being included in group conversations or visiting a new place are all experiences that may challenge a person living with the disease and affect their experience of the holidays.

To increase awareness and provide strategies to help local caregivers and people living with dementia prepare for the holidays during COVID-19, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is offering free webinars.

This year’s holiday gatherings will undoubtedly look different and that uncertainty can add additional challenges for people living with dementia, caregivers, family members and friends.

Nov. 25 will be the first of the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s new “Lived experience” webinar series, which is created by people with lived experience of the disease. In this webinar at 2 p.m., two people living with dementia will share the impact of COVID-19 on their preparations for this holiday season.

This session will focus on the experience that people living with dementia have and explore why it looks different, including the differences for someone who lives with a partner compared to someone who lives alone in the community.

The Society hosts free dementia education webinars every week for anyone affected by dementia or interested in learning more. The upcoming webinar schedule includes: • Virtual visits: Making the most of video calling (Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2 p.m.): Explore strategies to maximize success when video calling.

• Long-distance caregiving (Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2 p.m.): Practical tips for caregivers on providing meaningful caregiving support from a distance.

• Driving and dementia (Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2 p.m.): Learn how dementia may affect a person’s driving abilities and strategies to ease the transition for driving cessation. This webinar is for caregivers and people living with dementia.

To register for any of these webinars, please visit alzbc.org/webinars.

Carly Gronlund // Provincial coordinator, Vancouver n

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Write to us! Letters to the editor must contain the writer’s name, address and a daytime telephone number. Maximum length is 450 words. Pique Newsmagazine reserves the right to edit, condense or refrain from publishing any contribution. Letters reflect the opinion of the writer and not that of Pique Newsmagazine.

Be Calm.

Be Kind. Be Safe.

Dr. Bonnie Henry gershoncpa.com

Engel & Völkers Whistler

NOVEMBER 19, 2020

11

As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, trust that we are following the Canadian Real Estate Association protocols to safely assist Buyers and Sellers with their real estate business.

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PIQUE’N YER INTEREST

COVID is putting Whistler’s distinct brand of doublespeak to the test WHISTLER HAS, for decades, been an escapist’s paradise.

It’s something I’ve always admired about this place, the way it seems to attract the rebels and rule-breakers who’ve realized

BY BRANDON BARRETT there’s more to life than being chained to a desk 40 hours a week.

But that same penchant for escaping “the real world” means we’ve also created a kind of insulation against it—there is a reason it’s called the Whistler bubble, after all.

As a reporter, it’s something I noticed almost immediately upon landing here: There is a distinct difference between the way we talk about Whistler behind closed doors and what we say in public.

Whenever we cover a subject that could cast the resort in a negative light— homelessness, mental illness, substance use, sexualized violence, the list goes on— we too often get the same question from readers: Why are you reporting on this? As if tourists will instantly cancel their pricey

vacation here at the slightest hint that Whistler isn’t the perfect, family-friendly winter wonderland that it is marketed as.

As I wrote back in a 2014 column, something that is sadly still relevant today: “Normally if it bleeds it leads. In Whistler? If it bleeds, people want it buried.”

pandemic is necessary. The community’s health will always take precedence over tourism revenue, and that means sharing clear and relevant information.

Of course this applies to journalists like myself, but local business owners would do well to heed the message as well. The

Normally if it bleeds it leads.

In Whistler? If it bleeds, people want it buried.

And while the pandemic has pushed the conversation forward around things like mental health and inclusivity in a number of positive ways, the recent spike in COVID cases has reinforced that Whistler’s distinct brand of doublespeak is still alive and well.

Reporting on confirmed coronavirus cases, possible exposure sites, and related business closures in the midst of a global

province already sets out what you need to communicate to the public about the gamut of health and sanitary protocols in place at your business, but how you communicate to your customers around COVID is important, too, especially if your establishment happens to have a confirmed case come through its doors, as more and more local businesses have experienced in

recent days.

I get that this pandemic has been devastating to the resort’s business community, and I fully empathize with entrepreneurs as they’ve continued to watch their margins shrink, their staff dwindle, and their prospects of a profitable winter look less and less likely with every new health restriction that gets announced.

Beyond the fact that being transparent about matters of public safety is simply the right thing to do, it also makes good PR sense. In a time when we are bombarded with COVID news daily, and social-mediafuelled misinformation is rampant, customers want to know they can trust you. More than that, they want to know that you care about them as people and not just dollar signs, and a surefire way to show customers you care is to communicate honestly and openly even if it could hurt your bottom line.

We can no longer slough COVID off as another town’s problem. The virus is here, as most predicted it would be, and residents and businesses alike have a choice to either bury their heads in the sand or get out in front of it. For the sake of our community and the uncertain winter ahead of us, I sincerely hope it’s the latter. ■

IT’S SNOWMOBILE SEASON! s U h t i W e r u t Adven

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NEWS WHISTLER

Demand for Whistler housing strong heading into winter RMOW BUDGETS $10M TO ADVANCE RESIDENT HOUSING IN CHEAKAMUS

BY BRADEN DUPUIS DESPITE

NEW resident-restricted housing buildings opening and a global pandemic effectively turning the world upside down, Whistler Housing Authority (WHA) waitlists have not receded this year— in fact, they’ve grown.

Heading into the winter, there are 1,236 names on the WHA’s rental waitlist (up from 1,074 last year) and 853 on the purchase waitlist (up from 836).

The beginning of 2020 saw two new WHA buildings filled (on Bear Paw Trail in Rainbow and Legacy Way in Cheakamus), but demand doesn’t appear to be dropping off, said WHA general manager Marla Zucht.

When the WHA posted a call for expressions of interest for its new building at 1330 Cloudburst in Cheakamus (occupancy expected this February), its inboxes were inundated.

“Just 72 hours after that, we’d already received 136 expressions of interest for the 45 new homes,” Zucht said.

“So they’re going to be hotly sought after.”

IN DEMAND With a $10-million investment from

the Resort Municipality of Whistler, the Whistler 2020 Development Corp. can move ahead with developing Parcel A in Cheakamus Crossing in 2021.

PHOTO BY BRADEN DUPUIS

14 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

There hasn’t been much turnover in existing stock this year, either, Zucht noted.

In 2019, the WHA saw 29 resales compared to 25 so far this year.

On the rental side, 22 people have moved out, compared to 17 turnovers last year.

As far as the waitlists, Zucht noted that the WHA still has to do its annual confirmation process, which could remove about 15 per cent of names (on the rental side at least) who have moved on or found something different.

“Suffice to say there is still a strong demand, and a need for more employee housing,” Zucht said.

The demand is still apparent on social media as well, with more than 50 people actively posting in the Whistler Housing Rentals for Locals Facebook group last week alone, said administrator Jen Biberdorf.

“The demand seems slightly lower this year, but as usual, higher than what’s available,” Biberdorf said. “The concerning thing I’m seeing is the increase in people who really need something as they can no longer travel. That kind of displacement is new and they will likely end up in a new community where they don’t know many people.”

While in most years, “there’s rarely anything left” after the Nov. 1 move-in date, Biberdorf said administrators of the group (34,000 members strong) refresh the

threads regularly.

“It’s common for people to contact those searching directly,” she said. “Financially it’s tight for people, so this may mean more spare rooms rented out!”

While it won’t ease demand this season, a $10-million line item in the Resort Municipality of Whistler’s (RMOW) 2021 budget (unveiled publically on Nov. 16—see story on page 15) is aimed at easing the WHA waitlist congestion.

The money will be used to advance two new apartment buildings on Parcel A in Cheakamus Crossing (a total of 100 units, with occupancy targeted for 2022) and will be fully repaid in 12 to 24 months, according to Eric Martin, board member of the Whistler 2020 Development Corp.

(WDC).

The WDC expects it can repay the debt— and some of the $9 million it still owes to the municipality post-Olympics—by selling off 18 market single-family and duplex lots, Martin said.

The lots are located south of Parcel A on Parcel D3.

After servicing costs are accounted for, the WDC is hoping to bring in “at least $15 to $17 million, net, in cash,” Martin said, adding that the WDC will pre-sell the lots to ensure significant deposits, “so before we spend the money on infrastructure we know we’ve got commitments.”

The WDC will advertise the lots this

spring, Martin added.

“A couple of councillors have mentioned to us [the importance of] availability for locals first, and we’re definitely going to look at that,” he said.

“And I think they’re going to be in the price range where they’re going to be quote-unquote affordable … compared to anything out there.”

For those hoping to buy a residentrestricted apartment through the WHA, it’s possible one of the two Parcel A buildings will be for-purchase—depending on how some grant funding applications shake out, Martin said.

Collectively, the WHA, RMOW and WDC have applied for three BC Housing grants worth $12.2 million—$10 million for construction and $2.2 million for infrastructure.

A decision on whether the buildings are for rental or purchase won’t be made until funding is announced—likely in the new year, Martin said.

If grant funding only comes through for one rental building, for example, “we would then do one as a rental, and then the other would be resident-restricted, forsale product,” he said, noting the stagnant numbers on WHA’s waitlists.

“It’s very significant, and we haven’t serviced [the ownership] market at all in more than 10 years.”

Read more at whistler.ca/housing. n

NEWS WHISTLER

RMOW taps reserves to ‘bridge the gap’ BUDGET PROPOSES 4.89% TAX INCREASE NEXT YEAR

BY BRADEN DUPUIS WHILE THE RESORT Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) will look to its reserves to “bridge the gap” opened by COVID-19, residents are still looking at another tax increase in 2021.

The RMOW is proposing a 4.89-per-cent increase to property taxes next year, and no increase to utilities or user fees.

“This is my third budget process as mayor, and I can assure you that we have spent a lot of time considering the priorities and service levels in light of our current reality,” said Mayor Jack Crompton at a virtual budget open house on Nov. 16, adding that in spite of the pandemic, RMOW infrastructure continues to mature, while services and costs see upward pressures as economic cycles fluctuate.

Even before COVID, the RMOW was putting a lot of energy into asset management, Crompton said.

“With that sense of what is out there that needs to be replaced, we are paying special attention to our reserve accounts through this budget process,” he said.

“What do we need to save in order to repair and replace those assets in the future?”

As for what to expect on next year’s tax bill, property taxes are value-based, “and so paid proportionately based on each property’s assessed value,” said director of finance Carlee Price, in a presentation at the open house.

“The proposed increase translates into an amount of $114.05 on a sample property … valued at just under $1.5 million.”

TAPPING THE RESERVES The pandemic has had a “severe and quite immediate” impact on non-tax revenues that are expected to persist into 2021, Price said, noting that full-year revenue is now anticipated to be about $5.4 million less than it was at the start of the fiscal year.

“Our goal throughout this period has been that core operations remain intact, and to continue to ensure that the community remains ready to welcome tourists,” Price said.

“The RMOW has aimed throughout to spend in a way that is focused on positive long-term recovery outcomes despite this current short-term dislocation.”

The municipality is benefitting in part from the strength of its reserves at the outset of the pandemic, Price added.

“Those savings that are put away each year become invaluable when something like a global pandemic hits. The RMOW can choose to draw some portion of the necessary funding support from reserves at this time,” she said.

As such, total reserves balances, hovering around $90 million in 2019, are forecasted to fall to just over $60 million by 2023.

“The reserves will ultimately need to be restored to healthy balances, and this becomes a part of our 2023 to 2025 fiscal plan,” Price said.

“In the near term, however, favouring reserve draws over higher tax requisitions feels like the right and balanced approach.”

The right Advice for Your Whistler property

PROJECT SPENDING The 2021 proposed projects list comes with an estimated $54.9-million price tag in 2021 (with about $3.77 million carried over from 2020).

While it’s a significant jump, on paper, from the $39 million proposed in 2020, the figure is inflated by a whopping $10-million, single-year investment in resident-restricted housing.

The $10-million investment will be used to advance housing on Parcel A in Cheakamus Crossing, and will be viewed as a line of credit, to be used only as required, and to be fully repaid in 12 to 24 months, according to Eric Martin, board member of the Whistler 2020 Development Corp (see story on page 14).

According to budget documents, key focus areas for 2021 include tourism recovery and community well-being; implementing the Big Moves Strategy on climate action; employee housing; First Nations relationships and community engagement. Find them online at whistler. ca/budget.

Aside from housing, water and sewer infrastructure upgrades make up much of the proposed project spend, with $8.2 million budgeted in 2021 for sewer main upgrades (and a total $15.5 million budgeted from the sewer fund overall).

Other big proposed spends in 2021 include $2.4 million for a Rainbow Park rejuvenation, $1.35 million for community wildfire protection, $1.7 million for village washroom buildings, $2.9 million for road upgrades, and $1.6 million for utility undergrounding projects in White Gold and Alta Vista (along with a further $9.9 million from 2022-2024).

Video of the open house will be posted to whistler.ca/budgetopenhouse.

A year ago, in first tabling the 20202024 budget, the RMOW‘s proposed project list included 162 projects, with a proposed budget cost of $39 million in 2020 (including up to $10 million carried over from 2019).

In May, as COVID-19 wreaked havoc on municipal revenue streams, council passed an amendment stripping $12.7 million from proposed project spending—but stayed the course on a planned 2.8-per-cent tax increase. n

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NEWS WHISTLER

Council to reconsider controversial White Gold beautification COUNCIL BRIEFS: MAYOR URGES COVID SAFETY—FOR THE SAKE OF THE SKI SEASON

BY BRADEN DUPUIS A RESIDENT-INITIATED project to bury the utility lines in Whistler’s White Gold neighbourhood will be reconsidered at the Dec. 1 council meeting.

The issue was brought back to the table

by Councillor Cathy Jewett, who originally voted in favour on Nov. 3.

Though the project was initiated by way of a formal petition from the neighbourhood, some residents have since argued the process—which required 50 per cent support representing 50 per cent of the total property value—was not fully transparent about the costs to some homeowners (see Pique, Nov. 5: “White Gold beautification gets go-ahead from council”).

Further, some said they never received an email from the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) during a four-day window

last month in which the RMOW said it allowed them to rescind their support for the petition.

“Included in our package tonight are letters from people from the neighbourhood, who originally signed the petition in favour of the undergrounding, and then had a change of heart, but never received the email that others did asking them if they’d had a change of heart,” Jewett said at the Nov. 17 council meeting.

“So that’s the basis of my reconsideration, is to ensure that these people that did have a change of heart are able to register that.”

By way of an amendment to Jewett’s resolution, Coun. Duane Jackson asked for more information to be included in an appendix to the Dec. 1 council report—including the project’s timeline, and what information was provided to residents and when.

“There was some suggestion that people may have changed their mind and it has not

BURIED GOLD? Council will reconsider a resident-initiated project to bury utility lines in White Gold following confusion among residents.

FILE PHOTO BY BRADEN DUPUIS

been recorded, and from what I understand [the petition process] has been well vetted,” Jackson said.

“It would be good for the transparency of the neighbourhood.”

Couns. Ralph Forsyth and John Grills voted against the reconsideration, saying the petition followed a legislative process as set out in the Community Charter.

“We followed a process initiated by the residents,” Forsyth said.

“For the same reasons that I supported it last time, I will support it this time.”

In an email, an RMOW spokesperson

clarified that the annual maximum tax increase for homeowners under the project’s proposed Local Service Area is $1,230.

And while the expected cost to individual homeowners for the undergrounding work ranges from $4,500 to $22,000, depending on the complexity of their property, “most of the homes remaining overhead are low complexity and the likelihood of a redirection of underground is expected to be low,” the spokesperson said.

“There is an overhead option for all

SEE PAGE 18

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NEWS WHISTLER << FROM PAGE 17 owners, which is estimated at less than $5,000.”

While homeowners technically can’t opt out of the project, the overhead option would allow them to install a pole on their property to run a power line above ground to their home.

Mayor Jack Crompton also suggested that staff share more clarifying information about the process directly with White Gold residents, though he added that the legislative process council is dealing with is “very small.”

“The provincial government requires a petition to be signed by the residents and brought to council, and I believe our staff went above and beyond trying to communicate with residents,” Crompton said.

“There are things we’ve learned, to be sure, and we’ll apply them moving forward.”

BE COVID SAFE—FOR THE SAKE OF THE SKI SEASON With rising cases locally and new provincial health orders limiting social interactions in place until at least Nov. 23, Mayor Jack Crompton is urging Whistlerites to be COVID safe—for the sake of the ski season.

“Now is the time to do everything we can to put brakes on COVID-19. Our community and this ski season depend on it,” Crompton said at the Nov. 17 council meeting.

“It is critically important that we

18 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

follow the recommendations of our public health officials.”

That means no social gatherings outside your “core bubble” (meant to be kept as small as possible), staying in your home community, keeping two metres of distance and wearing a mask if possible.

While there has been increasing talk about mask-use in B.C. and in Whistler— including a petition calling for making them mandatory that had garnered 125 signatures

please do it to the letter as requested, and remember, please be kind, be calm, be safe,” Crompton said, borrowing a phrase from provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry.

“Those are not words that are without purpose or meaning. Dr. Henry consistently talks about the importance of kindness, and how critical it is to a strong response that’s durable over time.

“If we spend our time finding out other people who aren’t doing things exactly as

“Now is the time to do everything we can to put brakes on COVID-19...”

- JACK CROMPTON

as of Nov. 17—the RMOW lacks the legislative authority to institute such a ban.

“At this point, mandatory masking is a decision that will be made by Vancouver Coastal Health’s provincial health officer,” Crompton said.

“It’s been a topic of conversation in the community for a long time. We are working with public health to explore all options to ensure safety alignment within the resort.”

There’s no cost for COVID-19 tests in B.C., Crompton added, and those who think they need a test should use the selfassessment tool at bccdc.ca.

“If you have been directed to self isolate,

we’d like them to, we lose the capacity to make the change that we’d like to see ourselves, so I really want to encourage us as a community to focus on how we can build COVID-safe practices in our own social circles.”

STILL NO TIMELINE FOR IN-PERSON COUNCIL MEETINGS A report considering options for how to host in-person council meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic was deferred on Nov. 17.

Council will now consider the report at

its first meeting in February.

Though staff presented three potential options (in-person at the Maury Young Arts Centre, with crowd limits, Plexiglas, mask requirements and enhanced sanitation; a hybrid in-person and virtual model; or strictly online), COVID case counts have taken a turn for the worse since council requested the report back in September.

“I think that this is an extremely unusual time in the life of our community … but British Columbia is facing some unique challenges and on Thursday (Nov. 19), our public health officer is going to make a decision about whether to extend a regional order that will impact us heavily,” Mayor Jack Crompton said at the Nov. 17 council meeting.

“So I think it’s probably the wrong time for us to make this decision.”

Council’s last in-person meeting was on March 3, and frustration with the virtual format was never more evident than during the four-hour marathon Nov. 17 meeting over Zoom, which featured a higher-thannormal volume of technical glitches.

“I think it’s ironic that we are talking about maintaining electronic meetings when, for instance, I’ve had to change computers once during this, I’ve had Zoom cut out three times, I didn’t even hear your motion pass the first time,” said Coun.

Cathy Jewett.

“This just shows the pitfalls … I found tonight to be technically one of the most frustrating meetings I’ve had since COVID began.” n

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NEWS WHISTLER

BC Parks commits to safety overhaul following WorkSafeBC orders SEPTEMBER INSPECTION FOUND CROWN AGENCY WAS PUTTING STAFF ‘AT RISK’ WITH OUTDATED PROCEDURES

BY BRANDON BARRETT BC PARKS HAS committed to an overhaul of its safety procedures weeks after a damning WorkSafeBC report found the Crown agency’s outdated or unclear safety and training protocols were putting staff at risk.

As previously reported in Pique, last month WorkSafeBC issued five compliance orders against BC Parks, all surrounding workplace safety and training protocol, following an inspection of the agency’s Alice Lake jobsite.

The WorkSafe report, dated Sept.

16, is “one of the most comprehensive reports we’ve seen,” said Stephanie Smith, president of the BC Government and Service Employees Union (BCGEU), which represents approximately 150 BC Parks staff.

“Our members have been raising safety issues in BC Parks for a number of years, so because of their perseverance, because of their solidarity, that resulted in the WorkSafe report,” she said.

BC Parks said it is now working with the BCGEU to review and update its Safety Management and Accident Prevention Program after WorkSafe said it had not received a copy of the agency’s safety manual despite requesting it and staff reporting it had been updated as recently as February.

“By not doing the annual review of this manual the employer is placing there [sic] employees and other workers at risk,” wrote WorkSafe inspection officer Lee Fletcher in his original report.

The orders also require BC Parks to form new local, regional and provincial occupational health and safety (OHS) committees that convene regularly and receive annual training.

Just weeks before WorkSafe’s inspection, BC Parks and the Conservation Officer Service formed a joint OHS committee that Fletcher wrote “doesn’t address the fact that the duties and functions within these various organizations are not necessarily the same.”

A ministry spokesperson said BC Parks is now working to ensure its new committee structure “is appropriate for the types of work and locations that BC Parks staff work

Alta Vista Utility Undergrounding Project The RMOW received a letter expressing the interest of Alta Vista residents to initiate a formal petition process consistent with s.212 of the Community Charter for the undergrounding of overhead utility services (BC Hydro, Telus and Shaw) in the Alta Vista neighbourhood.

A virtual community information session to discuss this project will be held via Zoom on November 21, 2020 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Check out the project website: www.whistler.ca/AltaVistaUtilities for more information, to sign up for email information updates or to access the Zoom information session links.

If you have questions in advance of the information session please contact Christine Boehringer – Project Manager at altavistaunderground@gmail.com. The project team will be happy to answer your questions.

Resort Municipality of Whistler whistler.ca/AltaVistaUtilities

20 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

in around the Province (sic).”

As park use has exploded in recent years, park rangers are responsible for a number of potentially risky activities, including rigging helicopters to transport materials, managing and disposing large volumes of human waste, and ensuring public compliance in increasingly crowded provincial parks.

In his inspection, Fletcher found that no standard training or operating procedures exist for workers “flying propane, lumber or honey pots from back country [sic] locations using a helicopter,” and that existing training records were “inconclusive.”

In response, BC Parks has informed all staff “to cease work that has been deemed unsafe (e.g. helicopter long lining) until proper procedures are in place and training is documented,” wrote the BCGEU in a separate email.

“We know when we see workplace accidents, oftentimes it’s because people haven’t been aware that they have the right to say, ‘This is unsafe,’” said Smith. “There is a very clear process to follow when you refuse unsafe work through WorkSafe. It is a regulation, so our job is to make sure people

are aware of that.”

Park rangers have also had to contend with the increasing possibility of violence from squatters illegally camping on Crown land, something that garnered a broad reference in BC Parks’ current standard operating procedures without any subsequent referral to an existing violence risk assessment or protocol.

BC Parks last completed a violence risk assessment in 2012, which Fletcher deemed “is not acceptable due to age and clarity to those using it.” The BCGEU said the province has committed to developing a violence prevention plan in addition to updating the risk assessment.

What the WorkSafe orders don’t address, said Smith, are the years of underfunding at BC Parks that have handcuffed the agency responsible for the sixth largest park system in the world.

“Our parks are the treasure of B.C., and we need to be investing in them in a way that keeps them viable and brilliant and there for generations to enjoy,” she urged.

“This is a good start, but the work is not finished.” n

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NEWS WHISTLER

The business of taking care of business owners LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR SAYS MORE PROACTIVE MEASURES NEEDED TO SUPPORT EMPLOYERS’ WELL-BEING THROUGH COVID

BY BRANDON BARRETT AS A NUTRITIONIST who regularly works with clients experiencing mentalhealth challenges, Nicolette Richer knows full well how important it is to keep your physical and emotional well-being front and centre in times of crisis.

Being the owner-operator of The Green Moustache, the all-organic vegan café that now counts five locations in B.C., Richer also knows how entrepreneurs can become so consumed with their business— especially during COVID—that they can ignore their own health.

“Entrepreneurs have to basically treat themselves the way they did before COVID hit, otherwise they are going to see their businesses falter from poor decisions due to that lack of mental and physical health,” she said.

Richer contributed her insights to a recent survey of Canadian business owners launched by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) to gauge the toll COVID-19 has placed on them, and the results reflect the myriad of situations entrepreneurs across the country now find themselves in.

While the study, conducted in late August, shows the resilience of business

owners, with 64 per cent of those polled saying that “all was well or that they had things under control,” it also found that 39 per cent felt depressed and two-thirds felt tired or low at least once a week.

Unsurprisingly, a majority—58 per cent— said the ongoing economic recession was their greatest source of stress.

Even just acknowledging the pressures entrepreneurs are facing is a positive step, said Dr. Joaquin Poundja, clinical psychologist with Montreal’s Douglas Mental Health University Institute, who was one of several mental health experts tapped by BDC to consult on the study.

“These people are typically high achievers, so I think they are at risk of closing their eyes to how they are really doing,” he said. “It’s important to say that out loud, that some of them have difficulties, because that is going to normalize it a little bit. Even for entrepreneurs, they will be more at risk if they feel they are not allowed to have difficulties … or mental health challenges.”

Notably, how business owners have coped with the pandemic depended largely on certain demographic factors. Underrepresented groups such as women, people of colour, and younger entrepreneurs, for instance, were more likely to report wellbeing and mental health challenges.

EST.2006

SUPPORTING ENTREPRENEURS Green Moustache founder Nicolette Richer says entrepreneurs need to maintain a heathy routine through times of crisis.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

“It’s not the first time that we’ve seen this in our research,” said BDC’s chief marketing officer Annie Marsolais. “If we take the example of women, they tend to have businesses in the hardest-hit sectors.

Think retail, wellness, hospitality, tourism, so their businesses have either been struggling or experiencing skyrocketing growth. In both extremes, it’s impacting their level of stress and anxiety.”

Women entrepreneurs also often take on household and childcare duties in addition to their business responsibilities, which, when so many are being forced to work from home, can compound stress levels.

“All of a sudden, we have three or four times the responsibility,” Richer said.

A mom herself who is of Indian, African and Austrian descent, Richer said biases unfortunately still persist that make it tougher for visible minorities to do business.

“Now being in this time when you’re trying to do everything by phone, you’re trying to do everything through all of these meetings, if you are a person of colour and needing money right now, the same statistics are going to hold out during COVID that it’s harder for a person of colour to do business in the world because essentially there are still biases that occur there,” she said.

One of the legacies Richer would like to see come out of this period is a stronger support system for Whistler entrepreneurs who may be reluctant to reach out for help, as was the case with a panicked business owner at the start of the pandemic.

“Basically nobody knew they were hidden away in their dark houses. They failed to reach out and contact anybody and nobody was really following up with them, she said.

“I think that’s the biggest thing we need: a way to reach out to entrepreneurs proactively, check in with them and ask the right questions if they are in a state of paralysis because of COVID.” n

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22 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

NEWS WHISTLER

Experts raise concerns over youth mental health WHISTLER COUNSELLOR WEIGNS IN WITH TIPS TO HELP CHILDREN THROUGH ISOLATION

BY ALYSSA NOEL A REVIEW OF studies on children’s mental health in the wake of infectious disease outbreaks and natural disasters is raising concerns about what could be in store for B.C. youth.

The review, led by Dr. Charlotte Waddell, the director of the Children’s Health Policy Centre at Simon Fraser University, is predicting a significant increase in the number of kids with anxiety, post-traumatic stress, depression, and behavioural challenges due to COVID-19.

“If we don’t address this, we are really talking about what will happen to our next generation of Canadian nurses and teachers and frontline workers of all types and we cannot turn away from this,” Waddell said.

“We cannot afford not to address this, to really keep the kids in the foreground.”

The review was released last week through the province’s children’s representative, Jennifer Charlesworth, who’s advocating for greater investment in mental health.

It analyzed 60 articles published over the last seven decades that looked at the impacts of past outbreaks like SARS and swine flu, as well as natural disasters.

One study, for example, explored the connection between infectious disease outbreaks and youth mental health. It looked at 369 children—20.9 per cent who had to isolate and 3.8 per cent who quarantined—then compared their post-traumatic stress symptoms to those who didn’t have to do either.

Of the children who had isolated or quarantined, 30 per cent had posttraumatic stress symptoms compared to 1.1 per cent of children who didn’t have those experiences.

While Whistler kids might have the added bonus of easy outdoor access during the pandemic, the concerns still ring true locally, said clinical counsellor Greg McDonnell.

“I think the next pandemic is mental health and, thankfully, the stigma around it is diminished and we’re talking about it and normalizing getting help,” he said.

Part of the reason kids are struggling during the pandemic is because of our inherent need for human connection.

“Human connection is the seed of all healing,” McDonnell said. “Without that, this is made all the more complex. And so we’re having to adjust what that looks like.

We adjust classes and sports and isolation.

It’s an adjustment.”

The key to helping your child through this time is threefold, he said.

First, normalize how they’re feeling, talk about it, and “then, lastly, manage your expectations,” he said. “The outcomes probably aren’t going to look like we hoped them to look.”

The review also found a strong correlation between parents being impacted by isolation and their kids following suit.

When parents met or exceeded the same post-traumatic stress threshold, 85.7 per cent of their children did too, compared with 14.3 per cent of kids whose parents did not.

“Kids are sponges and they’re looking to their models for how to respond to any novelty,” McDonnell said. “That novelty might be a fender bender or it might be driving through the Downtown Eastside and just witnessing what you witness there. It might be a pandemic. It might be family stress.

They’re modelling our behaviour in terms of our response to it. I get the feeling parents are doing the best they can out there in these complex times.”

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“We can’t afford not to address this, to really keep the kids in the foreground.”

- CHARLOTTE WADDELL

But it’s not all dire. The review concluded that the pandemic also presents an opportunity to focus on the social and emotional well-being of children and ensure their healthy development.

McDonnell said there are plenty of excellent counsellors and therapists in the Sea to Sky corridor. The focus needs to be on facilitating “discharge” so there’s less cumulative stress over time.

While Whistler might focus on physical discharge, or release, which is one facet, there’s also mental, spiritual and emotional discharge.

On top of that, “now is a great time to invest in who you’re going to be next as opposed to just sitting there frozen; a victim wondering what’s going to happen next,” he said. “For young adults, that’s how PTSD takes root—when you’re immobilized in the face of some event.”

Instead, kids should engage in “wild play” by getting outside, moving their bodies, and enjoying nature.

“I think we have to look at some old-time ways to engage kids,” he added. “Like board games, cards, things like that. That gives kids an alternative to screens. Screens are OK— we’re going to need them—but probably with some boundaries too.”

- With files from the Canadian Press, which produced parts of this story with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship. n

Resort Municipality of Whistler

Cheakamus Lake Road Wildfire Thinning Fuel thinning will take place starting November 30 to spring 2021 along Cheakamus Lake Road.

The road will be closed for the duration. Farside and AM/PM trails may require intermittent closures.

For safety reasons, please stay off the road and closed trails, follow signs and instructions of wildfire crew, and leash dogs.

Please visit project webpage for the latest information and closure dates.

Resort Municipality of Whistler whistler.ca/FuelThinning NOVEMBER 19, 2020

23

NEWS WHISTLER

Naturespeak: Wedgemount Glacier survey

BY KARL RICKER AND KRISTINA SWERHUN GLACIER MONITORING has a long history in the Whistler area. Karl Ricker has been monitoring Wedgemount Glacier for over 45 years, a project instigated by Bill Tupper and that also included Don Lyon on the original crew. The team’s first sighting of Wedgemount Glacier was from Wedge Mountain in 1965, when the glacier was floating on Wedgemount Lake.

Why monitor glaciers? Glaciers grow and shrink in response to changing climate, so their movements mark changes.

Monitoring data allows researchers to assess ecological and hydrological effects on species (including humans) living in the area or downstream. Researchers can also use the data to predict future changes and effects—like how shrinking glaciers will affect water availability.

Monitoring on Sept. 6, 2020, revealed that Wedgemount Glacier receded 30 metres between 2019 and 2020, which is almost five metres more than the 10-year average. The continued enlargement of Tupper Lake at the base of the glacier was also monitored. Born by glacier recession in 2013 as a small puddle but quickly enlarging, this year the area of Tupper Lake

SEEING GREEN Wedgemount Glacier and Tupper Lake.

PHOTO BY KRISTINA SWERHUN

was about four hectares—an increase of 18 per cent from 2019.

And the reason for this large recession?

We would need to go back 10 to 12 years to look for answers. That’s the approximate

time it takes for snow that accumulates at the highest part of Wedgemount Glacier (headwall) to make it to the bottom of the glacier (toe/snout) in an annual cycle of winter snowfall accumulation, glacier

movement under the force of gravity and summer melt. The recession recorded this year is likely due to lower than average snowfall or higher than average summer temperature around 2008 to 2010, or a

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NEWS WHISTLER 1990s it was 108 m; in the 2000s it was 143 m and in the 2010s total recession was 252 m (see chart). The increased rate of recession has significant implications for local hydrology and species that depend on glacier meltwater.

There are now three generations of researchers that are involved in Wedgemount Glacier Monitoring, a testament to how passion for the natural world can be passed from one generation to the next. In September, the crew included Karl Ricker (original team member), Rob and Ellie Tupper (son and granddaughter

of Bill Tupper) and Dave Lyon (son of Don Lyon). In previous years Graham Lyon (grandson of Don Lyon) has also been a part of the team.

After over 45 years of surveying, Karl is near retiring and will be handing off this monitoring project to a younger generation of researchers. The contribution Karl has made to our understanding of the natural world is unmatched. He has explored the mountains, valleys and regions around Whistler perhaps more than any other person alive. A remarkable naturalist, Karl has not only contributed glacier-

monitoring data but has also studied the flora and fauna of our region. He has contributed in huge ways to our knowledge of the animals and plants that inhabit and surround our community.

He has also been a tireless advocate for responsible development and sustainable practices that protect these spaces.

Thank you, Karl!

Upcoming Whistler Naturalists’ AGM: Wednesday, Nov. 25 at 5:30 p.m. via zoom. Email whistlernaturalists@gmail. com to register. n

Squamish MLA Jordan Sturdy wins judicial recount

CLOSE EYE Karl Ricker making calculations.

PHOTO BY KRISTINA SWERHUN

combination of both.

Looking back at 40 years of research, recession during each decade varies considerably and has been steadily growing.

In the 1980s total recession was 56 m; in the

THE BC LIBERALS have maintained their dynasty in the West Vancouver-Sea to Sky riding by just a sliver.

MLA Jordan Sturdy has kept his narrow lead in the judicial recount, cementing him as the representative for the Squamish area.

Sturdy took 9,249 votes 37.54 per cent of the vote—in the recount, giving him a microscopically larger lead of 60 ballots.

Previously, his lead was 41 ballots. The results were announced on Nov. 17.

Previously, on election night, Green candidate Jeremy Valeriote was ahead with 7,019 votes and he was projected to win the riding against Sturdy’s 6,415 ballots.

However, as mail-in ballots started

to be counted, Valeriote’s lead dimmed, and, in a major upset, Sturdy overtook the Green candidate. Ultimately, Valeriote took 9,189, amounting to 37.30 per cent of the vote.

Third place went to NDP candidate Keith Murdoch, who trailed with 6,197 votes 25.16 per cent of all votes cast.

Valeriote was quick to concede and offered his congratulations to Sturdy.

“I’d like to offer my congratulations to Jordan Sturdy,” Valeriote said in a news release.

“I am very grateful to all those who cast a ballot for me and supported my campaign, which experienced unprecedented momentum. I am very much looking forward to continuing to

build the Green vote in this riding over the next four years.”

Sturdy’s win is a close call for the BC Liberals, which have dominated the riding since 1991.

The incumbent MLA has held a seat here since 2013 and won his last election in 2017 by a comfortable margin.

The previous time the province went to the ballot box, Sturdy took 43 per cent of the vote with 10,449 votes.

The 2017 Green candidate, Dana Taylor took about 28 per cent of the vote with about 6,947 cast in his favour. Coming in third was NDP candidate Michelle Livaja, who amassed about 27 per cent of the vote with 6,532 ballots.

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NEWS PEMBERTON & THE VALLEY

Pemberton budget on track COUNCIL BRIEFS: FLOOD GRANT APPLICATION APPROVED

BY DAN FALLOON THE VILLAGE OF Pemberton’s (VOP) financials are on track, but an unexpected boost from the federal and provincial governments didn’t hurt.

Manager of Finance Lena Martin reported at council’s regular meeting on Nov. 17 that the VOP received funding through the COVID-19 Safe Restart Grant for Local Governments totalling $987,000. “[It’s funding] that we didn’t know we were getting,” Martin said. “It’s to assist with our COVID-related shortfalls. We have those across the board for multiple different things, but the grant is to cover revenue losses, facility reopening and operating such as for recreation, emergency planning and response, bylaw and protective services … and computer and technology costs.

We had some additional costs for laptops and setting up webcams and setting up meetings.”

Martin noted the grant is also flexible to cover other revenue losses.

“It’s going to be good for us. It’s going to carry us through the end of this year and into next year. As we look at our cash flows go up and down, it’s going to be of great assistance to us,” she said.

Martin noted that four departments were affected by the pandemic, but the news is mostly positive in large part because of the grant. Administration saw slightly higher costs for expenditures such as

CASH FLOW While application-fee revenue

declined in the Village of Pemberton’s third quarter, building permit income stayed steady.

FILE PHOTO BY JOEL BARDE

28 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

cleaning supplies, advertising, signage and equipment, which can be recovered through the grant. Building and development, meanwhile, saw application-fee revenue decrease, though building permit business was still strong. Recreation lost rental revenue with the extended community centre closure, though they were mostly offset by staff being laid off, and any losses are offset by the grant. Lastly, transit saw losses during the period where fares were not collected, though these losses could be recovered by transit funding, which is still

Martin said there is just over $485,000 in outstanding taxes and utilities, which Chief Administrative Officer Nikki Gilmore confirmed was roughly in line with other years. The Village will be sending out letters in the coming weeks looking to collect the remainder and Martin expects more tax revenue before the year’s end.

“We are still in line to finish the year without a deficit by postponing some of our larger projects and utilizing grants that we have available,” she said.

“It’s going to be good for us. It’s going to carry us through the end of this year and into next year.”

- LENA MARTIN

under review, or by the grant.

Mayor Mike Richman was pleased with the funding coming through.

“It’s the only time since I’ve started in local government that I’ve heard big cities complaining that small towns got too much of the share of funding,” he quipped. “It was kind of nice to have the role reversal on that one.”

All told, Martin said, at the threequarter mark of the year, the VOP had collected 86 per cent of revenues while paying out 73 per cent of expenditures.

Taking out the revenues collected on behalf of other governments changes the figures to 83 per cent collected and 65 per cent paid, with some project charges and winter costs such as snow removal on deck.

FLOOD GRANT APPLICATION APPROVED Council approved a pitch to seek more funding for emergency preparedness.

Emergency program coordinator Sarah Toews presented regarding an application to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities’ (UBCM) Structural Flood Mitigation funding stream.

The funding would be used for the North Arm Channel outlet replacement, the Riverlands culvert gate and for hydrometric gauges on Green River and Miller Creek. The Pemberton Valley Emergency Management Committee has identified all three projects as high priorities.

“The three proposed projects aim to mitigate issues relating to backwater

flooding and flow changes caused by the Lillooet River and its tributaries. The rationale for these three projects consists of replacements to flood control infrastructure and increase emergency preparedness while also gaining insight to flow changes over time due to climate change,” Toews explained in her presentation.

In the case of the North Arm Channel, Toews noted that existing culverts and gates were installed in 2003, but are now leaking.

While the Pemberton Valley Dyking District (PVDD) can pump water over the berm, it is a high-risk activity and also less effective.

The Riverlands’ culvert gate leaks during rainy weather, which decreases its capacity and creates issues with area ditches, while gauges on the Green River and Miller Creek would improve floodplain modelling.

The projects are estimated to cost $650,000, a figure that accounts for in-kind project management from the PVDD. The funding stream can contribute 100 per cent of the cost up to $750,000. Council voted to approve Toews’ request to apply for $621,500.

Council will also voted to revise the resolution it passed on Nov. 3 regarding its application to the UBCM’s Evacuation Route Planning funding stream. At the meeting, council opted to apply for $25,000 “to undertake a joint project for an evacuation exercise in the Pemberton Valley and Squamish floodplain to test existing evacuation planning assumptions.”

However, council rescinded that motion in favour of a revised joint ask with the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and the District of Squamish for a $60,000 “consultant-led evacuation exercise in the Pemberton Valley and the Squamish floodplain affected areas.” n

NEWS PEMBERTON & THE VALLEY

SD93 provides more detail about proposed Pemberton school

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BY DAN FALLOON PEMBERTON RESIDENTS received more details on a proposed French-language school and community hub in the Tiyata development during an information session held via Zoom on Nov. 12.

The project first appeared at Village of Pemberton (VOP) council last month, as it needs an Official Community Plan (OCP) amendment and rezoning to proceed.

Council voted to notify its stakeholders and request the applicant, Conseil Scolaire Francophone (SD93), to hold the information session.

SD93 superintendent Michel St-Amant noted that, through École La Vallée, the division has been active in the community since 2004. However, the current school is housed in portables near Signal Hill Elementary School and only offers classes for those from Kindergarten to Grade 8.

The proposed school would go from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

“We need more space. We need the expansion,” St-Amant said. “We’re looking forward to having our own site and a home school.”

Project architect Craig Burns noted the school would be situated on a 10-acre (fourhectare) parcel near Pemberton Creek and Highway 99. The building would feature 7,000 square metres of floor space over

approval, he said the ministry is responding quickly and is supportive thus far, while his team has provided some level of design and analysis to keep the project moving.

“We were concerned that this would potentially derail the project, but we had a really positive response from the ministry,” he said. “They have indicated that provided we do all the correct design work and study and prove that it is a safe and viable place to add an intersection, then they would support it.”

Burns noted that a site map shown as part of the presentation was only a concept, but added that the school building will be set back from Pemberton Creek to minimize flood risk while the playing field would be in lower-lying areas.

Burns hesitated to put a timeline on the school opening, noting the primary focus right now is to secure the site. He noted, however, that construction timelines are more predictable, settling in the range of 20 to 24 months.

“That would be 18 busy months and then a buffer on the end,” he said.

Burns said the Village of Pemberton has been helpful in the rezoning process, noting the initial timeline estimate was five to eight months.

“We have learned that it’s possible to speed that up as long as we have all our answers ready, we do our homework and we work well with the Village and staff in order to get them the information they need ... for the various readings,” he said. “Five to eight

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7342 INDUSTRIAL WAY three storeys while housing 390 students and nearly 40 childcare spaces.

Other amenities include a gymnasium, a playing field, a hard outdoor playing surface and playground equipment. There may also be a community garden on the property.

Vehicle access would be from Highway 99 itself, as the private strata roads deadend at the property line. The connection to Highway 99 would be located halfway between the Portage Road intersection and Park Street intersection in Creekside.

“The road would be connected to, but not open to, the private strata road of the Tiyata development. Currently, these are strata roads and are not rated for public use,” he said. “The assumption, currently, is that there would be a gate between the two properties and that that would be accessible only for emergencies or possibly for an evacuation.”

While Burns didn’t have a timeline for Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure

months was the window, but I think we’ll be at the lower end of that, if not even shorter.”

All told, the project is early in the planning stages, Burns stressed. Should the Official Community Plan amendment and rezoning applications receive Village of Pemberton approval, further dominoes to fall include purchasing the property, receiving funding approval and completing design work before construction begins.

Burns encouraged interested parents to write to the Village to make their position known.

“This is a great idea, a great site and a great opportunity, but it would be really helpful if there was support from the community to help this along,” Burns said.

As the existing school currently operates in portables, St-Amant hopes to see the project move along quickly.

“We’ve got to make sure we have our new building as soon as possible,” he said. n

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NEWS PEMBERTON & THE VALLEY

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8358 Pemberton Meadows Road Potatoes, carrots, onions, apples, root veggies, garlic, wine, baking and crafts from choice Pemberton producers.

Farmstand open daily helmersorganic.com/farmstore deliveries and pick-up locations throughout Sea to Sky

TASTY EATS The N’Quatqua community garden saw a successful year with a huge bounty of various vegetables.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TERESA SAMPSON

After years of effort, N’Quatqua community garden comes to life UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF TERESA SAMPSON, GARDEN INSPIRES OTHERS TO GROW THEIR OWN VEGGIES

BY ALYSSA NOEL AFTER MANY YEARS of trying to kickstart a N’Quatqua community garden, Teresa Sampson is basking in the bounty of a successful season.

“It needed to be refurbished,” she said of the soil and the space. “It needed lots of nutrition to be put into the ground. When I first started, it was really sad. A lot of weeds were coming out. But this year was so awesome. It produced so much.”

The nine-by-21-metre garden, located in the Anderson Lake-adjacent community near the Health Station, produced sunflowers, corn, tomatoes, beets, two different types of beans, potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, zucchini, spaghetti squash, and kale—to name a few vegetables—this summer.

“What did best? This year was my first year growing pumpkins,” she added. “I’ve been trying to grow pumpkins for my kids here. They’ve always turned out small, but this year, they got so huge.”

Sampson wound up making eight deliveries to elders, single moms, and bachelors in the N’Quatqua Nation over the summer.

“A lot of people were quite amazed when I was pulling stuff out to deliver it to them,” she said.

Whatever was left over from that week’s harvest would go to the grocery store for community members to take.

Not only did the garden provide fresh food for the community, it also inspired many people—along with the COVID-19 pandemic—to try their hand at gardening. “[The pandemic] was an eye-opener

30 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

for a lot of the members,” Sampson said.

“They tried putting gardens in this year.

They’ve had some success … I’ve been trying to get people’s minds going; what they can receive from planting seeds.

With COVID happening, they’ve started to realize they don’t have to go to town to get veggies they need.”

For her part, Samspon logged plenty of hours in the community garden this summer—sometimes with help from her husband, sons, 84-year-old mother, and even her five-year-old granddaughter— with community members also dropping in to help.

There was something special about spending one-on-one time with people working in the dirt, she said.

“Every time they’d come out there, they’d see me and join me. It was like their little alone-time chat with me to ask me questions about the garden,” she said.

While it took five or six years of work to finally get a garden that was successfully producing, Sampson expects that with the land ready, next year will be a little easier.

“My hubby goes over there and rototills for me with the tractor then my boys go over and help fix the fence; my family does a lot of volunteer work there when I need stuff done,” she added. “My family does put a lot of work into the community garden because we really want to inspire the community with what they can receive from it.”

But, the work isn’t over for the season just yet.

“I picked the last bit of the carrots in the first snowfall that came,” Sampson said. “I still don’t have a break yet. I still have to put in the garlic. The ground is still really nice, so I’ll be getting over there.” n

RANGE ROVER

Waste not, want not BACK IN AUGUST, while governments across the country twiddled their thumbs over economic recovery and how best to activate the abundant idle capacity created by the pandemic, a unique partnership

BY LESLIE ANTHONY launched along the British Columbia coast— an effort that successfully created jobs while simultaneously protecting the waters that support so many other forms of employment.

It was probably Canada’s best COVID response plan—a model for the times, and an encouragement for ongoing endeavours.

The Clean Coast, Clean Waters (CCCW) initiative fund aimed to aid small-ship tour operators, First Nations, local communities and others through a $3.5-million cleanup of marine debris and plastic waste from the central coast, including the Great Bear Rainforest. The cleanup alone was worth the investment, but by also creating jobs, strengthening Indigenous partnerships, and supporting tourism-reliant coastal communities amidst the COVID-19 economic downturn, it fit perfectly with the government’s broader Pandemic Response and Economic Recovery initiative.

Though few need reminding of the background for this, here it is: globally,

CLEAN COAST Bluewater Adventures crew

members cleaning discarded fishing gear and other marine debris from a remote coastal beach.

PHOTO BY LESLIE ANTHONY

a garbage truck’s worth of plastic waste enters the ocean every minute—some 8 million tonnes each year; in 2019, the Great Canadian Shoreline Clean-up removed 163,505 kilograms of debris across the country, almost quadrupling 2018’s 47,076 kilos. Almost half (77,836 kg) the 2019 total was removed from B.C. shorelines.

Of course, if you’re thinking, “the government isn’t that smart—it can’t be just them,” you’re right. It’s no secret to anyone that B.C.’s coastal environment is the province’s greatest single tourism asset, attracting visitors from all over the world.

But we can give the government credit for a willingness to listen and innovate, and to do so by responding to a strong public call to action from coastal communities.

The listening was largely done by Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo, Special Advisor for Marine Debris Protection, and Parliamentary Secretary for Ministtry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy’s February 2020 report What We Heard On Marine Debris In BC. The report outlines the many challenges of removing marine debris on the coast, from logistics and costs to the complexities of collection, transportation, and disposal.

As a first-time cleanup of this scale, George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, also saw it as a great example of how our environmental and economic futures can and must be built on partnerships and reconciliation. As such, it was the first in a series of CCCW initiatives to create jobs for tour operators, cleanup crews, community educators and specialized positions like oceanographic data collectors.

Administered by the Wilderness

Tourism Association of BC, the Small Ship Tour Operators Association (SSTOA) conducted two marine debris removal expeditions of 21 days each, involving nine vessels from various marine-based tourism operators. The ships were fully provisioned and self-sufficient to avoid contact with remote communities. Over 100 crew, including scientists amassing various types of information, inspected and cleaned 1,000 kilometres of remote shoreline around 100 small islands. Supported by a tug and barge for debris collection and storage, as well as a helicopter, as much material as possible was recycled, reducing the amount sent to a landfill in Port McNeil.

According to Kevin Smith, president of Maple Leaf Adventures and a leader of the initiative, “When it became clear to operators that we’d all have to cancel a soldout season, we asked ourselves how we could use our skills to protect the environment that sustains us.” The CCCW was the answer. “It’s really rewarding to work with our colleagues, First Nations communities, the Wilderness Tourism Association and the Province of B.C. on projects that help the ocean we love and support our industry during this unprecedented time.”

For another initiative leader, Bluewater Adventures director, Randy Burke, it also fit the company ethos. Operating since 1974, Bluewater is an eco-tourism pioneer with conservation and education as its backbone, committed to carbon neutral operations with memberships in 1% for the Planet and Sustainable Tourism Canada, and that fosters longstanding partnerships with coastal First Nations.

“Everyone we talked to loved the idea

of getting boats and crews back to work and doing something positive for the coast.

I’m grateful the government was able to respond so quickly [to] make it happen,” said Burke. “Marine plastic is a huge issue on this coast and the planet. These expeditions certainly made a difference, but the problem is far bigger. We all need to be conscious of choosing sustainable options that support our collective future.”

Far from roads and communities, the Great Bear Rainforest’s outer coast is strewn with reefs, making working there challenging.

But the tour companies had the skills and vessels to tackle the rugged work.

“In these trying times, [it was] a rare opportunity and a good news story,” said Doug Neasloss, Stewardship Director with the Kitasoo-Xai’Xais Nation. “Marine debris is an ongoing challenge and a removal initiative of this scale is an undertaking that will provide significant environmental benefit to KitasooXai’Xais territory and beyond.”

The two expeditions spanned six weeks and had expected to collect 75 to 100 tonnes of marine waste. When the second one wrapped in September, however, some 127 tonnes of Styrofoam, plastics, and derelict fishing gear (representing half the total) had been removed.

Based on the amount of junk encountered, all partners agree that they hope it becomes a government-supported initiative on a more frequent basis—a reminder that building back better includes a little cleaning up.

Leslie Anthony is a biologist, writer and author of several popular books on environmental science. ■

NOVEMBER 19, 2020

31

FEATURE STORY

THE MYSTERY OF MOUNTAIN DESPITE DECADES OF RESEARCH, MYTH

LIONS AND FEAR STILL SURROUND THE ANIMALS

BY SARAH GILMAN High Country News

LAST WINTER,

I went walking on a grey afternoon between storms. Meltwater pattered the snow around the ponderosas. Fog wound through overhanging boughs. My dog, Taiga, strained at her leash. We turned up a ravine, climbing toward an outcrop above our home where we could watch clouds river down the narrow Methow Valley, on the east slope of Washington’s North Cascades.

I turned my head and froze. Through the trees, a brown shape closed in. Not coyote.

Not bobcat. Rounded ears; a long bow of tail.

Seeing itself seen, the cougar dropped to a crouch a few paces from me. It was still woolly with kittenhood, but big enough to send a chill down my spine. Its golden eyes locked on mine.

Time suspended for a moment; I watched from outside myself.

32 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

I grew up in cougar habitat on Colorado’s Front Range. Summer camp came with instructions on what to do if you saw one. In 1991, the year I turned 10, a cougar killed a young man for the first time in the state’s recorded history. When I was a teenager, two little boys died in attacks.

Later, backpacking and building trails in the state’s high Rockies, my friends and I told dark stories of cougars, making them the ghosts that haunted our adventures.

But I had never met one.

Now, I numbly ran through that old camp advice: Don’t run; make noise. I yelled and hoisted Taiga over my shoulder.

The cougar circled us, settled again. When I started to walk away, it padded after me.

I raised my voice to a scream. It paused, uncertain, then vanished into the trees.

I soon heard from others in our neighbourhood who encountered the cat—

on the trail, peering through a glass door. A husband and wife woke one night to noises like wind in a tunnel. In the moonlight beyond their window, they saw an adult cougar sing-songing to a young one, a sound, the man said, “like nothing I’ve heard before or since.”

The couple phoned Lauren Satterfield, a cougar researcher who works in the valley.

She set up motion-sensing cameras that revealed two juveniles and two full-grown cougars wandering among our forestscattered homes. Satterfield and her crew captured one of them—not the half-grown cat I met, but an adult female. They fitted her with a GPS collar, then released her to transmit secrets about her life.

The familiar woods felt upended. I walked them now with a sense of vertigo, disoriented by these fleeting brushes with a creature of foreign compass, who

navigated the serrated mountains and the tumbling tributaries of the Methow River, the small towns of Winthrop and Mazama and their Nordic skiing trails, according to experience and rules wholly its own. To recover my bearings, I called Satterfield and asked if I could follow her following cats.

SATTERFIELD IS DIRECT

and plainspoken, and was blunt about my odds of seeing anything more. Collaborating with the state Department of Fish and Wildlife for her PhD at the University of Washington, she’s studying how cougars are affected by wolves’ return to the state. I could join a collaring excursion, she said, but the cats are so elusive that, even with houndsmen and their tracking dogs, a team might collectively snowmobile 400 miles (644 kilometres) a day over a weekend and still

FEATURE STORY catch nothing.

That invisibility has helped cougars persist, argued Jim Williams, regional supervisor for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, in his book Path of the Puma.

European colonists obliterated the cats in most of the East and Midwest. But unlike wolves and grizzlies, cougars hid well in the rugged West, and their preference for hunting over scavenging protected them from poison and traps. After bountykilling programs ended in the ’60s and ’70s, the survivors reaped the benefits of rebounding deer and elk numbers, as well as growing public sympathy for predators. Cougar-hunting rules grew more protective. In the 1990s, voters ended cougar hunting altogether in California and banned the use of hounds for hunting them in Washington and Oregon. More than 90 per cent of Washington residents surveyed in 2008 saw cougars as an essential part of ecosystems, with an inherent right to exist. Today, an estimated 30,000 wander the West, overlapping with people nearly everywhere, mostly unseen and thus, unremarked.

But cougars’ invisibility has a downside.

“Since mystery is the mother of exaggeration, the animal gradually acquired a reputation for prowess and lurking danger far beyond what it really deserved,” naturalist Claude T. Barnes wrote in 1960. Later, the West’s human population ballooned, sending more homes and recreationists into cougar habitat, and attacks on people rose from practically nonexistent to vanishingly rare. They total about 20 deaths in North America since 1890, and attacks on livestock and pets have risen, too—plenty enough to keep old terrors alive. In 1997, William Perry Pendley, then president of the Mountain States Legal Foundation and now acting director of the Bureau of Land Management, accused cougar defenders of condoning “human sacrifice.”

This mythologizing cuts both ways.

Without direct contact, it’s as easy to revere cougars as harmless avatars of nature as it is to cast them as monsters.

People whose families have lived in the woods for generations usually know a fair amount about cougars, said Satterfield.

But others simply “know that they’re there, and that’s all they know,” she added, unless they’ve tried to learn more.

Into that cougar-shaped hole in experience go all kinds of visions, blotting the animal from clear sight just as fully as do its proclivities for cover and darkness.

But with the help of camera traps, GPS tracking and other methods, science has drawn cougars partially into focus—and out of the shadows of story.

I MET SATTERFIELD

and field crew lead Nate Rice on a cold March dawn. Frost haloed the river-bottom vegetation.

Wind cheese-grated our faces as we snowmobiled along a ski trail, scanning among deer and domestic dog prints in the hard-packed snow for coaster-sized tracks—four toes with no mark from the retracted claws, lined over a large pad. Where dogs wend, Satterfield told

WWW.GETTYIMAGES.CA

NOVEMBER 19, 2020

33

FEATURE STORY SCIENCE MAY NEVER

me, a cougar walks deliberately, from kills at the mere sound of a human voice. fully dispel cougars’ slotted together like puzzle pieces across somewhere to somewhere. But the only mystery, but it can suggest better ways available habitat, and females nest “We would probably be dumbfounded if cat tracks we found appeared suddenly, smaller home ranges inside. To establish we knew how few encounters are even for us to make space for their lives. four shallow skins of ice, then vanished. recognized as such,” said Justine Smith, After years of study in collaboration a territory, young males must fight Defeated, we trucked the a wildlife ecologist at UC Davis. with universities, for example, in 2013, or leave; many die. That may be why snowmobiles to the rolling hills above Satterfield hopes to explore similar Washington became the first state to cougar populations level off at consistent the valley, abstract swaths of dun and dynamics here in the Methow, where restructure its sport hunt to preserve densities instead of exploding, as some white. Satterfield’s hands on the wheel cougars flow down from the mountains cougar social structure. Yet a lot of critics warn. A male and the females were chapped with cold, crisscrossed in winter, perhaps following mule deer research is still ignored or not believed, in his territory may also form a sort of with scars and scabs. The houndsmen seeking forage in the valleys—habitats said Department of Fish and Wildlife cougar neighbourhood, where individuals helping with the study were waiting for people also favour. Fitbit-like technology cougar and bear specialist Rich Beausoleil. occasionally share kills, perhaps on the us at a snowed-in road. assumption that the favour will be returned. on some collars helps her suss out how “We’ve made incredible progress in some “I’ll tell you one thing,” one of them “For an animal to exhibit reciprocity, it homes like mine affect cougars’ hunting, aspects of cougar management, but said after Satterfield passed him the for good or ill. They alert her crew to perception still outweighs science on so needs to be smart enough and have a brain telemetry antennae to check a collared location-specific bursts of speed, so they many fronts.” developed enough to interact based on cat that was nearby. “You’ll sure see the And though public cougar memory,” said researcher Mark Elbroch, can assess tracks in that spot, translating dogs run. I don’t know what it is out the animals’ remotely sensed movements appreciation has swelled, it’s distributed author of The Cougar Conundrum and there”—he glanced at the dark forest director of Panthera’s Puma Program. into readable language. unevenly between urban areas and the beyond the road—“the cats learn to fly or The upshot of these intricate By afternoon, though, Satterfield’s rural places where people are more likely something.” The hounds hauled at their interactions is that hunters may cause team had pursued only dogs through the to contend with the animals. Outsized leads, baying and eager to chase a cat social disarray if they kill too many cats, hills, doubling back and again until the fear remains. In Alberta, in 2008, for into a tree, where it could be more easily opening once-stable territories to an last was collected, still howling with the instance, researchers found that more tranquilized and collared. Let loose, they influx of younger cougars. That could search. The most dramatic chase was one than half of survey respondents believed raced in the direction opposite from the boost cougar activity in residential areas, we found drawn in snow. Bound marks that their risk of a cougar attack was one we’d expected. as well as complaints. led from the shade of a big ponderosa into at least as great as their risk of a car Chaotic as it looked from behind But there is also evidence of how little a wide depression, where one muscled wreck. That might be due to “cognitive four retreating dog butts, studies like most cougars want to do with humans— body collided with another. A spreading illusion,” where people overestimate Satterfield’s have revealed patterns in and how well they avoid us, even at close pink stain. A drag mark. And finally, the the occurrence of rare events because cougars’ lives. “What’s interesting to me range. Near developed areas and high spraddled remains of a deer, its ribcage they’re memorable. And no wonder: is how dynamic they are,” she observed. human traffic, cougars restrict their hollowed, its hooves skyward. All around, Many get wildlife information from “They navigate down in the river bottom activities to between dusk and dawn, tracks in blood and shadow—magpie, the media, which typically covers only and all the way to these slopes up here. when people hunker inside. Even close to raven, eagle—the traceries of wingtips extraordinary cougar behaviour, like They’ve been able to find a way to live homes, they heavily favour wild prey over brushing the drifts, a roil of life pouring attacks on people. in everything from Patagonia to Florida easier-to-catch domestic animals. Studies in after the cat’s kill, shown clear on the In California, the number of swamps, to the desert, to the forests here, to have shown they will flee from hard-won canvas of winter. complaints resulting in permits to kill western Washington.” They chirp like birds cougars climbed steadily to their kittens. And they’re individuals. with human population “As soon as someone says they never do ‘X,’ ” growth from the ’70s through she said, “some animal out there is going to the ’90s. Then, after cougars go do that exact thing.” killed two people in 1994, Ambush predators, cougars are they ballooned—something undeniably spooky, sometimes researchers attributed less to a stalking silently for an hour or more rise in cougar activity than to before springing onto their quarry and hyper-vigilance stoked by fear. delivering a crushing bite to neck or Something similar may throat. Cougars also build worlds: By be happening in Washington. keeping deer, their primary prey, on the The state logged nearly twice move and populations in check, they help as many cougar reports in vegetation thrive, sheltering a host of 2019 as in 2018, largely due other species. In the Greater Yellowstone to a jump in unconfirmed Ecosystem, cougar-killed carcasses have sightings. Cougars could be been shown to sustain 39 species of changing their movements scavenging mammals and birds, and 215 because of changes in prey, species of beetle. and the state has stepped The cats have their own social order. up efforts to encourage Older males maintain large territories reporting. But it’s also

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34 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

FEATURE STORY notable that a cougar killed a person in Washington in 2018—the second in state history. And like California in the 1990s, the state steeply increased the number of cougars it killed in 2018 and 2019 for attacking livestock and pets.

Those removals are concentrated in the state’s conservative northeastern corner, where wolves’ return has frazzled local nerves and left some feeling powerless. At a March 2019 wildlife commission meeting, area residents testified for two hours that a “serious overabundance of predators” was obliterating deer, slaughtering domestic

accept visceral, actual proximity—and what that entails?

In theory, I’d say yes. My cougar encounter had come to feel lucky, and beautiful. But stepping into the woods with my dog at night, I remembered the fix of its inscrutable gaze. I had learned ways to lessen chances of trouble: Leash dogs; don’t feed deer; fence the attractive dry space under porches; keep pets indoors and chickens, goats and sheep in covered enclosures at night. “It’s like buckling your seatbelt,” as Satterfield said. I was starting to realize, though, that my gathering facts

hills a few miles from my place. The couple who lived there, devoted wildlife watchers, told us they had noticed perfect tracks down their snowy driveway the previous fall.

“Most people aren’t surprised, but they’re usually interested in finding out what the cat was doing there,” Satterfield said. That’s part of what makes carnivore work challenging and engaging, she added. “People care, whether they like them or hate them, or they’re somewhere in the middle.”

We paced back and forth on a

me: The river is a travel corridor with good cover and lots of deer. Still, each time I walked alone, I glanced behind me. That awareness was both uncomfortable, and a gift. It is easier to know a place as sentient if you feel it watching you back. Easier, too, to understand you play a part in its fate.

Last November, I caught up with Satterfield in her final field season.

My neighborhood’s collared cougar still wandered the valley, she told me, showing me a camera-trap photo on her phone. In it, the cougar stood sidelong, the bright night-coins of her eyes lit

about cougars wasn’t the same as coming to understand them. The complicated mix of awe and fear I felt had little to do with what a cougar is likely to do, and everything to do with what it’s capable of doing. Layered with this was the guilty knowledge that, if something happened, it could easily be my fault—and the cat would be the one to pay.

scrubby hillside near the two-week-old signal until we smelled the sourness of vegetation spilled from a deer’s stomach.

Then, behind some bushes, a pile of wind-dulled hair and bone fragments.

Satterfield jotted on a data sheet and we walked in widening circles, looking for a skull, a pelvis, any shard of story.

There was nothing but a flock of juncos and some scat—the lion and the land keeping their own council, the invisible presence of the one rendering visible the wholeness of the other.

Later, I began to notice tracks in the snow. I found them along the road to my house, atop my own at the riverside. I knew the cat’s path had nothing to do with

by the flash. It was my first glimpse of her. Perhaps, I thought, she felt herself watched, and, seeing no one, hurried into the night with a chill down her own spine.

Then again, she seemed to look directly at me. I couldn’t shake the feeling that she had seen me before.

WWW.GETTYIMAGES.CA

animals and threatening people. The commission initiated an early revision of the cougar hunt, raising worries that the state would increase hunting in places where it already regularly exceeds guidelines set to preserve cougar social structure.

“We are at a precipice now with large carnivores,” said Anis Aoude, Washington state game division manager. With many species recovering, the next generation of biologists will face difficult questions: “How do they live on a landscape that’s dominated by people? Is that even possible in some places?” Cougars need big, wild land, but they’re better than most at living alongside humans. We are everywhere, increasingly. Can more of us

We’ve got you covered.

ON OUR FINAL DAY TOGETHER, Satterfield Satterfield backtracked possible cougar meals, indicated by multiple GPS points sent from the same location over time. We were on the trail of the cat she had collared in my neighbourhood. Satterfield pulled the truck up to a rustic home in sage

Sarah Gilman is a Washington-based freelance writer, illustrator and editor.

She first wrote about her experiences with Satterfield and cougars for The Methow Valley News and The Last Word on Nothing.

This story was originally published in High Country News on March 1. Read the original at hcn.org/issues/52.3/northwildlife-the-mystery-of-mountain-lions. ■

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35

SPORTS THE SCORE

Whistler Nordic Development Centre readying for 2020-21 STORED SNOW AGAIN BOOSTING ATHLETES’ TRAINING

BY DAN FALLOON THE WHISTLER Nordic Development Centre is embarking on the 2020-21 season with hopes, dreams and contingencies.

Head coach Etienne Letondeur said that unlike last year, snow isn’t a concern, with 1.5 kilometres of stored Callaghan Gold snow, plus hearty precipitation in recent weeks since Whistler Olympic Park officially opened for athlete training on Nov. 14.

“It’s pretty awesome,” he said.

That said, nearly everything else about the upcoming campaign is on shaky ground, but in his role, Letondeur is preparing his athletes for anything.

“The team is looking pretty promising this year. Of course, with the COVID situation, everything is a little up in the air. We don’t know what races we are going to have access to but we are training hard, training full time,” he said.

Letondeur is keeping his fingers crossed that the team will be able to compete at the season-opening race in Canmore, Alta. in early December en route to qualifying for international races in Europe. However, with case counts rising in B.C. and elsewhere, nothing is guaranteed.

If racing opportunities end up being

TRAINING DAYS Members of the Whistler Nordiic Development Centre take part in early season training at Whistler Olympic Park.

PHOTO BY ETIENNE LETONDEUR

36 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

severely limited, the season could look much different.

“We might just shift the focus and do more of a training year this winter and aim for long-term goals,” he said. “They train with us because they want to achieve long-term goals and eventually be part of the national team at some point and go to the Olympics.

“It can be potentially good to spend the winter focusing on training instead of racing. That could pay off in the long term.”

As for the venue itself, park managing director Tim Hope said that the stored Callaghan Gold snow was looking good, and the snowfall on Nov. 13, a day before opening, only helped.

“We prepared Callaghan Gold for this past weekend, and we did receive a good amount of natural [snow], which helped the condition even more,” he said.

While conditions earlier this week presented some challenges, the cooler

“We don’t know what races we are going to have access to but we are training hard, training full time.”

- ETIENNE LETONDEUR

Being an outdoor sport, Letondeur said training is not too different, though with recent health orders, coaches have to ensure more distance between athletes, such as biathletes shooting in every other lane.

This year’s team comprises of 10 full-time athletes, with the bulk of them returning from the 2019-20 squad. With a strange season ahead, Letondeur said the familiarity between all involved should help.

“We can make sure we focus on reaching the next steps with them,” he said. “Next year, we’ll try to recruit a younger group of athletes and potentially have two training groups.”

temperatures forecasted ahead should help get the track back to where he’d like it before the public opening day of Nov. 27.

Hope stressed that the park instituted pandemic protocols when opening for summer operations, and those have been reinforced for winter.

“Like every other business, we’ve had to adapt our workplace safety features and our safe work practices,” he said. “There’s been more training for our seasonal staff that are coming onboard and we have more protocols for the rental process and first aid.”

While events such as ladies’ ski nights

will not happen this season, Hope said the average visitor can expect similar service to what they’ve seen previously.

“If you are a recreational skier and you want to come out, it shouldn’t be that much different,” he said. “It’s a socially distanced place by design, to a point. We have various trailheads and starting points. There’s not a real reason to bring people together, other than the day lodge, and we’ll have processes and plans in place to help facilitate a safe experience.”

While there will be capacity caps in place for indoor facilities, with the park spread over 1,100 hectares, Hope said he anticipates safely welcoming similar numbers of guests to past years.

“I believe there’s going to be a lot of interest. We know that,” he said. “We’ve made provisions to provide additional parking, should we need it.”

Hope said the park has “put a pause” on tobogganing to start the season in order to focus on skiing and snowshoeing, but noted it still may return at some point in the winter.

In town, the Resort Municipality of Whistler is awaiting consistent winter conditions in order to open the Lost Lake Trails. Passes purchased by Nov. 22 will be mailed to the buyer, while those purchased on Nov. 23 or later will be available for pickup at Meadow Park Sports Centre seven days later. Full details and a contactless waiver are available at whistler.ca/culturerecreation/facilities/lost-lake-nordic-trails/ contactless-waiver. n

SPORTS THE SCORE

Matteau Rushbrook earns BC Hockey scholarship

EARLY BIRD SEASONAL SNOW REMOVAL

DEAL

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BY DAN FALLOON EVEN THOUGH Camie Matteau Rushbrook can’t badger the opposition with Brock University’s women’s hockey team this season, she’s still finding ways to win.

The Whistler Minor Hockey Association alum, who played the past two winters with the BC Female Midget AAA Hockey League’s Greater Vancouver Comets, recently earned BC Hockey’s Ted Hargreaves Scholarship, worth $1,000.

Matteau Rushbrook saw the news through an association newsletter, which revealed a bevy of scholarship winners. She recognizes the tough position BC Hockey is in, as it usually announces such news at its annual Congress. The event was cancelled due to COVID-19.

“It definitely helps out a lot,” said Matteau Rushbrook, who scored six goals and 19 points in 32 regular season games with the Comets last season. “I am currently going to school in Ontario, so I had a lot of extra travel costs and university is a big expense.”

According to BC Hockey, the scholarship is awarded in memory of Nelson-based coach Hargreaves, who “was an integral part of hockey development and coaching. He also combined his passion for hockey with his artistic abilities, illustrating instructional manuals for Hockey Canada.”

Matteau Rushbrook said she hadn’t heard exactly what put her over the top, but said her long-time involvement in the organization was likely a boost.

“It’s really nice to see that they are appreciating my involvement,” she said.

Matteau Rushbrook is currently in her first year at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ont. where she’s studying sports management and a member of the women’s hockey team.

She said she was drawn to the school by its one-of-a-kind sports management program, which will help her as she strives to become a player advocate, while she was eager to join a team that was tied for third in the 2019-20 regular season before falling in the first round of the playoffs.

“The coaches and their philosophy really seemed to fit really well with what I believe,” she said.

The Badgers were also thrilled to secure a commitment from Matteau Rushbrook.

“Camie is excellent at working the corners and going hard to the front of the net,” Badgers assistant coach and director of recruiting Brad Nicholson said in a release announcing Matteau Rushbrook’s commitment in July. “Camie is adept at retrieving loose pucks and winning battles

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RISING COMET Whistler’s Camie Matteau Rushbrook, who was recently awarded a BC Hockey scholarship, celebrates with her Greater Vancouver Comets teammates during the 2018-19 season.

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along the boards. We are looking forward to the grit Camie will bring to our team.”

Both sides will have to wait to fully appreciate one another, though. Matteau Rushbrook said that though there was some initial hope of starting a campaign in January, there will be no 2020-21 Ontario University Athletics season at all.

“Right now, we have limited ice, but we’re on the ice three days a week, we get in the gym twice a week and we still have a whole bunch of virtual activities,” she said.

“We still have training and we’re still able to improve and get better for next season.”

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“It’s been tough coming in and not being able to play, so it’s been kind of tough to get to know everyone,” she said.

Matteau Rushbrook noted that she lived in residence when she first went east, but soon moved off-campus into a house with some of her teammates.

“That was really good to get to know them better in that sense, but unfortunately, there isn’t much opportunity to get to know them as hockey players,” she said. “But as people, it’s great to have good teammates, good coaches. Everyone’s making sure that we’re doing all right being away from home for the first time.” n

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37

FORK IN THE ROAD

Antsy in your pantry?

LONG WINTER NIGHTS, A LONGER SECOND WAVE: WHEN A LITTLE ZING WILL DO FEELING A LITTLE ANTSY these days? Or what’s left of them, what with the old sun pulling a real downer by hitting the deck at half past four.

Don’t forget those d-e-e-p mountain shadows, which have long been the bane of Whistler this time of year. (Sorry! Sorry!

Sorry!, spoken à la John Cleese in Fawlty Towers. I know it’s a tourist town, and we’re

BY GLENDA BARTOSH on the down-low saying things like that out loud, but maybe the upside of way fewer tourists is licence to break out of the box, eh?)

Add in the black dog of the second wave dog-dog-dogging us as we try to outswim the tsunami, and you have the perfect combo: Dark winter days; long winter nights; more isolation... What more could a gal ask for?

How about adding a little zing to life, starting with our taste buds? After all, they say the tongue is the back door to the brain.

Intuitively, in this cozy but darkened household, we’ve been eating some very cool, or I should say, zingy, but decidedly off-beat things lately. Never mind the comfort food.

It’s been barbecued Persian eggplant dip and Peruvian papas à la huancaina.

HEAVY LIFTING One way to combat that antsy,

pandemic-weary feeling is to mix up your dinner plans with some international cuisine.

GETTY IMAGES

38 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

It all started when I dug out one of my treasured little, and I do mean little (they’re not much bigger than a deck of cards) New Internationalist Chunky Cookbooks, which, like the name implies, and the organization actually does, shine a spotlight on the culture and issues of some of our world’s most intriguing, overlooked places. More on that in a bit, but suffice to say that ideas on food and culture from countries like Algeria, Haiti and Morocco don’t exactly make it into many Twitter feeds these days.

That said, I saw exactly what we’ve been doing at home lately described in a recent article in Vancouver’s stalwart Georgia Straight. It was all about tips on surviving pandemic fatigue written by Glenn Sumi, long-time pop culture media contributor, including to Toronto’s NOW Magazine.

Glenn’s a good writer, so don’t hold it against him he’s based in Toronto. But if you’re wondering what his byline’s doing in the Straight, Ontario-based Media Central Corp.—”Media for the Free Generation”—which includes publishing services for the “cannabis platform,” already owned NOW and bought the Straight in February, coincidentally just as COVID started roiling around.

Sorry for that rabbit hole, but that’s what pandemic central is doing to our brains. Sending us down them.

If you’re lucky when you plunge down one, you’ll come up with some tasty off-thewall tidbits and other unexpected delights that will give you an adrenaline rush, or at least some relief from your ennui. For

according to Glenn’s article, that’s exactly what we need these days.

“The fact is, we need a certain amount of stimulation in our lives,” says Steve Joordens, a psychology professor at the University of Toronto-Scarborough, in Glenn’s piece. “It’s part of optimal arousal theory...” Consider your old life, when you might go out a few nights in a row and then want to stay home, or vice versa. Doing the same thing over and over wears us out, along with all our bodily changes from pandemic stress.

Thankfully, there are all kinds of ways to “arouse” yourself and your eating without breaking the bank or your bubble.

It’s easy just to type in a few ingredients or concepts into a search and see what you come up with. There’re time-honoured faves like The Spruce Eats and The Minimalist Baker (all her recipes take a single bowl and 10 or fewer ingredients to make), as well as other sites off the beaten trail. Usually DuckDuckGo, which doesn’t track your cookies, comes up with more of the latter compared to Google.

Think of it as new fun, track-free rabbit holes to plunge into.

Other quirky places to branch out with on your food trips include publications with a conscience and international reach.

Try The Guardian, which regularly features wide-ranging vegetarian recipes to flatten the carbon curve.

New Scientist, the venerable science weekly that also comes out of the U.K., runs a great feature—”Science of cooking” by Sam Wong. We flipped out over the ease and outrageously good results of Sam’s dulce

de leche (“candy [made of] of milk”), that gorgeous, sensual caramel sauce from Latin America you can never get enough of.

Simply take a tin of condensed milk, put it into a large pot of water so it’s completely covered, and simmer it for two to three hours, depending how dark you like your caramel. When it’s done, use tongs to remove the tin. Make sure you let it cool completely before opening it, otherwise the dulce de leche will shoot out everywhere.

As for New Internationalist’s Chunky Cookbooks, they’re a brilliantly curated collection focused mostly on simple (and inexpensive) ingredients you can easily get your hands on. Their international authenticity is 14-karat—author Troth Wells specializes in world food cookbooks.

Using Vegetarian Main Dishes, we’ve made great meals, including papas à la huancaina from Peru, which nicely zapped our synapses and time-travelled me mistily back on various Latin American trips; and Yemesirkik, the fragrant lentil wat, or stew, from Ethiopia that might make you more mindful of the civil war breaking out there.

If you can’t get your hands on a Chunky Cookbook, you can always search these recipes on the web. Either way, I guarantee you’ll shake a few ants out of your pants.

Glenda Bartosh is an award-winning journalist who encourages you to support quality periodicals like Pique and the ones mentioned here—during the pandemic and always. n

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ARTS SCENE

Travel to parallel planes—and one stunning island—with Between Waves FEATURE DEBUT FROM TORONTO WRITER AND FILMMAKER VIRGINIA ABRAMOVICH SCREENS AT THE WFF ON DEC. 12

BY ALYSSA NOEL SETTING PLAYED A huge role in Between Waves.

While taking in the spectacular views of the island of São Miguel in the Azores might be an escape for travel-deprived viewers (i.e. everyone), it’s also where the story for the film was born.

“I was in the Azores because my husband’s family is from there, so we go once in a while to São Miguel, the island where we filmed,” says Virginia Abramovich, who directed, co-produced, and co-wrote the sci-fi drama. “It’s the most beautiful place I know. [I thought,] ‘I have to tell a story here.’ The way the island felt like it healed me; there’s such a healing energy to the island. This idea of this person going through turmoil—this island as a reflection of her turmoil—but through it, she gets healed by something there.”

Between Waves, which will screen online as part of the Whistler Film Festival on Dec. 12, follows Jamie, a woman who is visited by her quantum physicist lover,

GREAT DEPTHS Between Waves finds its main characters caught on parallel planes.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

40 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

Isaac, who’s been presumed dead.

On those visits, he pleads for her to join him in a parallel plane.

While working in the sci-fi genre can allow a writer the freedom to invent rules, adhering to those rules can also become tricky, Abramovich says.

“There’s one thing I only thought of when I was editing,” she says, with a laugh. “I was

While travel, sweeping drone shots, and a complex storyline might make the film sound big budget, Abramovich says only a pareddown crew shot the São Miguel scenes. (The rest of the film was shot in Toronto.)

“I knew I wanted to shoot it and do it in a contained way,” she says. “At our leanest, we were 13 people in the Azores.

I’m very grateful for the crew … Everybody

“We worked together to build the character … It was a very collaborative experience writing this where she contributed to the character then owned the character.”

- VIRGINIA ABRAMOVICH

like [Isaac] goes in and out of water. He should be wet every time he comes out. But I never bumped on it during the script. Even when we were filming, there were a lot of things people were bumping on that we fixed.”

However, many of the multi-verse theories in the story are actually rooted in quantum physics theories, she adds.

“I didn’t make up a lot of this stuff,” she says. “But then I had to figure out how it would become logical.”

did more than one job. Everyone was into the story and wanted to support me as a filmmaker and wanted to help me make my first feature, so that was great.”

One example was lead actress Fiona Graham, who plays Jamie. Abramovich first met her at a film festival back in 2014 and every time she went to New York—where Graham lives—the two would connect. As she started the script for Between Waves, she had the actress in mind.

“When I started writing the story, she helped me build the character of Jamie,” she says. “We worked together to build the character … It was a very collaborative experience writing this where she contributed to the character then owned the character.”

The film will be part of the Whistler Film Festival’s virtual offerings this year, with streaming available starting on Dec. 12. While it was hard to watch the COVID-19 pandemic prompt festival after festival to cancel initially, Abramovich is happy to see her debut feature finally get out there.

“It played in L.A. and Portland,” she says. “I would’ve loved to go to Whistler.

I’ve been before; it’s an awesome festival.

It does feel like it got buried by COVID, but I hope this festival and other things will make people see it because it doesn’t have any famous actors, nobody knows me as a director, it would be nice to get it out there.

I hope now that some festivals are noticing it and it’s going to be online, I hope it does pick up and people see it.”

To find out more about the film, visit betweenwavesfilm.com.

For tickets to the Whistler Film Festival (which is largely online, but also hosting limited in-theatre screenings of some films), running from Dec. 1 to 20, visit whistlerfilmfestival.com/. n

MICRO EXHIBITION ON DISPLAY UNTIL NOVEMBER 22 Exploring Land and Ideas The Art of Takao Tanabe and Jack Shadbolt The West Coast of British Columbia is exceptionally beautiful. The province’s natural wilderness, rugged mountains, and expansive oceans provide vital sources of inspiration for many B.C. artists.

Jack Shadbolt and Takao Tanabe have played crucial roles as both artists and teachers in bold and innovative styles. Works by both artists have been paired to demonstrate the development of unique aesthetic styles that depict visions of physicality and imagination.

Left: Takao Tanabe, N.W.T. 1/97: Beaulieu River, 1997 Right: Jack Shadbolt, Alternative Transformations: After Rain, 1996

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ARTS SCENE

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Local performer lends talents to online charity fundraiser CATCH ZADA PERFORMING FOR CANADIAN HUMANITARIAN ON NOV. 20

BY ALYSSA NOEL LIKE MANY MUSICIANS around

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the world, Zada Szocs (who goes by the stage name ZADA) has spent her pandemic lockdown wisely.

The 17-year-old Whistlerite is at the tail end of creating her debut EP. “It’s been great,” she says. “COVID shows you how focused you can be on a project.

It shows how people can connect from distances great and far.”

While she doesn’t want to pin herself down to a single genre, ZADA describes her sound as “R&B, neosoul.”

The four-song release, meanwhile, lyrically, tackles everything from female empowerment to the Black Lives Matter movement.

“And then I have a self-discovery song—a normal teenager trying to figure out what’s going on inside their head,” she adds. “[It’s] a lot of personal, looking-into-yourself.”

To help hone her vocal and songwriting skills, ZADA has been working remotely with both a vocal coach in L.A. and with the Songwriting School of Los Angeles.

“What I really learned from working with everyone is looking around you and seeing how you process that and how it comes out on paper,” she says. “How you can make things around you creative … I love music and playing music, but I have an equal amount of passion for writing.”

While ZADA initially started out playing trumpet, it wasn’t long before she found herself drawn to piano instead—now her instrument of choice.

“I didn’t start singing until probably seven years ago. It took me a little bit to get into that,” she adds.

She had a short stint with a girl band

in Vancouver, and still plays with another, but more recently decided to break out on her own.

“I’m trying to focus more on being a solo artist, which is where I feel the most free,” she says. “I’ve always wanted to write. Any time I’ve worked with other people, I’ve tried to position myself in the writing position.”

Although she hopes to release a single in December, and the EP possibly in the spring, locals will be able to hear a sampling of those songs—all for a good cause—when ZADA performs at an online charity fundraiser for the organization Canadian Humanitarian on Nov. 20.

The Alberta-based organization has a place in her heart because it helps disadvantaged children in Malawi, Guatemala, and Ethiopia, where she’s originally from. Her family has also been involved with the group for nearly 14 years.

“I have a big connection to Africa, so any time I see something like that where I can represent my country, I like to do it. We go back with my family once in a while,” she says.

The fundraiser—dubbed Hope for Tomorrow—will livestream from her piano and she will sing three or four original songs.

“I’ve done open mics, but no online shows,” ZADA says. “It’s going to be fun. I love the idea that you can connect with more people in a sense.”

Alongside ZADA, singer-songwriter Andrew Allen, who has volunteered with the organization, will also perform.

There will also be door prize draws, a silent and live auction and other fundraising.

“In the past, we’ve worked with them and gone to schools and supplied books,” ZADA says. “They asked me if I wanted to do it and I said, ‘That would be wonderful.’”

The fundraiser takes place online on Friday, Nov. 20 from 6 until 8 p.m. For tickets, visit trellis.org/hope-for-tomorrow. n

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STEAK . SEAFOOD . SUSHI Located above the Hilton retail shops overlooking the Village stroll

WHISTLER QUESTION COLLECTION

IN THE PAST 10 YEARS, Whistler Blackcomb has installed several new lifts on both mountains, replacing older lifts with new ones (such as the new Blackcomb Gondola and Emerald Express) or moving existing lifts to replace others (such as the Crystal and Catskinner chairs on Blackcomb Mountain). While it may seem like there have been a lot of changes in the last decade, the greatest change in lifts in the area was actually seen in the 1980s. A total of 21 lifts were built, six on Whistler Mountain and 15 on Blackcomb. Eight of these lifts opened in the 1980-81 season alone.

On Whistler Mountain, skiers had been skiing down to the site of Whistler Village and catching a bus or a ride back

today. The Village Chair was replaced in 1988 by the Whistler Express and, instead of requiring four exposed chairlifts, the 10-person gondola took skiers and sightseers alike straight from the Whistler Village to the Roundhouse. In 1999, the installation of the four-person Fitzsimmons and Garbanzo Expresses eliminated the need for the Black Chair. The Olympic Chair was shortened in 1989 and now operates as a beginner chair.

It is one of the few fixed-grip lifts still used on Whistler or Blackcomb mountains.

Blackcomb Mountain opened its first five lifts (named One through Five) in 1980.

Lift Five was a two-person chairlift designed for beginner skiers, located at Base II, then the hub of Blackcomb operations. The development of the Upper Village and the opening of the Magic Chair in 1987 moved beginners to the new Blackcomb base and Lift Five was removed.

The Olympic Chair was shortened in 1989 and now operates as a beginner chair. It is one of the few fixed grip lifts still used on Whistler or Blackcomb mountains. to the gondola base at Creekside for over a decade. In 1980, Whistler Mountain opened three triple chairlifts starting from the village, breaking from its tradition of naming chairs for colours for the first time since opening in 1966.

The imaginatively named Village Chair began at Skiers Plaza and ended at Olympic Station. From there, skiers had a short run down to the aspirationally named Olympic Chair. At the top of the Olympic Chair, they could then ski over to the Black Chair, which let them off at the top of what today is the top of the Garbanzo Express. Reaching the Roundhouse required skiing down to another chair, either the Green or Red. Of the three lifts, only the Olympic Chair continues to operate on Whistler Mountain

Four triple chairs took skiers from Skiers Plaza to the top of the Rendezvous.

Over time, these lifts began to be called by names as well as numbers: Fitzsimmons/ One, Cruiser/Two, Choker/Three, and Catskinner/Four. To ride all four chairs could take over half an hour, a long journey if the weather was not great. In 1994, Lifts One through Three were replaced

by Blackcombâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first gondola, Excalibur, and the four-person Excelerator Express.

Lift Four remained the only original lift operating on Blackcomb until it was replaced in 2018.

Though only one of the eight lifts installed in 1980 remains, the year marked the beginning of a busy decade of lift-building for both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. n

PARTIAL RECALL

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1

3

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1 TIME TO REMEMBER Staff Sgt. Paul Hayes placing the wreath on behalf of the RCMP at the Cenotaph and the RCMP contingent who were in Red Serge that day. PHOTO SUBMITTED. 2-4 ONE THING IS BETTER IN 2020... By the time you’re reading this, there will be one week or less left until Whistler Blackcomb’s scheduled opening day of the 2020-21 winter season, and the Vancouver Coastal Health region will be nearing the end of an initial two-week-period of tightened health orders intended to slow the rapidly growing number of COVID-19 cases. To no one’s surprise, this winter will be different than any other in the resort’s history. But despite the overall doom-and-gloom that’s defined 2020, there is always a reason to be thankful, and a bright side to look toward. Right now, we’re thankful for snow! Ahead of opening day, we’re using this space to take a look back at the first day of the 2019-20 ski season, when Whistler’s biggest problems were drier-than-usual conditions and a clear, sunny forecast. How naïve we all were. So, as you double-check your personal stock of face coverings and get your gear ready for the season ahead, enjoy this throwback to November 2019, when you could share a gondola with strangers and walk into the Roundhouse for lunch on a whim. As the weirdest winter on record kicks off, keep praying to Ullr for a season full of physically distanced powder days, and remember that as bad as things are, there is always a bright side. PHOTOS TAKEN ON NOV. 28, 2019 BY MEGAN LALONDE.

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Think-It-Over GALLERY EXHIBIT | On Now - December 13, 2020 Maury Young Arts Centre, Whistler | artswhistler.com/gallery Discover how Sea to Sky artists interpreted six words, crowd-sourced from the community, to describe what’s been on our minds in 2020.

Visit the Gallery or explore our 3D virtual tour at artswhistler.com.

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Pot

Inti

ial ent

cy ma

R

Humility

ience esil

e stic

Learning

Ju

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www.whistlersweatershop.com 46 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

ASTROLOGY

Free Will Astrology WEEK OF NOVEMBER 19 BY ROB BREZSNY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Back in 1974, poet Allen Ginsberg and his “spirit wife,” Aries poet Anne Waldman, were roommates at the newly established Naropa University in Boulder, Colo. The school’s founder asked these two luminaries to create a poetics program, and thus was born the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics. Waldman described its ruling principle to be the “outrider” tradition, with a mandate to explore all that was iconoclastic, freethinking, and irreverent. The goal of teachers and students alike was to avoid safe and predictable work so as to commune with wild spiritual powers, “keep the energies dancing,” and court eternal surprise. I think that would be a healthy approach for you to flirt with during the next few weeks.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Any legal actions you take are more likely to be successful if you initiate them between now and the solstice than if you’d begin them at other times. The same is true for any contracts you sign or agreements you make: They have a better chance to thrive than they would at other times. Other activities with more kismet than usual during the coming weeks: efforts to cultivate synergy and symbiosis; attempts to turn power struggles into more cooperative ventures; a push to foster greater equality in hierarchal situations; and ethical moves to get access to and benefit from other people’s resources.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Never follow an expert off a precipice. Nor a teacher. Nor an attractive invitation. Nor a symbol of truth nor a vibrant ideal nor a tempting gift.

In fact, never follow anything off a precipice, no matter how authoritative or sexy or appealing it might be. On the other hand, if any of those influences are headed in the direction of a beautiful bridge that can enable you to get to the other side of a precipice, you should definitely consider following them. Be on the alert for such lucky opportunities in the coming weeks.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Malidoma Patrice Somé was born into the Dagara tribe of Burkina Faso. After being initiated into the Dagara’s spiritual mysteries, he emigrated to America, where he has taught a unique blend of modern and traditional ideas. One of his key themes is the hardship that Westerners’ souls endure because of the destructive impact of the machine world upon the spiritual world. He says there is “an Indigenous person within each of us” that longs to cultivate the awareness and understanding enjoyed

by Indigenous people: a reverence for nature, a vital relationship with ancestors, and a receptivity to learn from the intelligence of animals. How’s your inner Indigenous person doing? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to enhance your ability to commune with and nurture that vital source.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Psychologists have identified a quality they call NFD: “need for drama.” Those who possess it may be inclined to seek or even instigate turmoil out of a quest for excitement. After all, bringing a dose of chaos into one’s life can cure feelings of boredom or powerlessness. “I’m important enough to rouse a Big Mess!” may be the subconscious battle cry. I’ll urge you Leos to studiously and diligently avoid fostering NFD in the coming weeks. In my astrological opinion, you will have a blessed series of interesting experiences if and only if you shed any attraction you might have to histrionic craziness.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “Give up the notion that you must be sure of what you are doing,” wrote philosopher Baruch Spinoza. “Instead, surrender to what is real within you, for that alone is sure.” Spinoza’s thoughts will be a great meditation for you in the coming weeks.

If you go chasing phantom hopes, longing for absolute certainty and iron confidence, you’ll waste your energy.

But if you identify what is most genuine and true and essential about you, and you rely on it to guide you, you can’t possibly fail.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “A little bad taste is like

a nice splash of paprika,” said Libran fashion writer Diana Vreeland. “We all need a splash of bad taste,” she continued. “It’s hearty, it’s healthy, it’s physical.

I think we could use more of it. Having no taste is what I’m against.” I understand that her perspective might be hard to sell to you refined Librans. But I think it’s good advice right now. Whatever’s lacking in your world, whatever might be off-kilter, can be cured by a dash of good, funky earthiness. Dare to be a bit messy and unruly.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): To convey the spirit of the coming weeks, I’m offering you wisdom from two women who were wise about the art of slow and steady progress.

First, here’s author Iris Murdoch: “One of the secrets of a happy life is continuous small treats, and if some of these can be inexpensive and quickly procured so much the better.” Your second piece of insight about the wonders of prudent, piecemeal triumph comes from activist and author Helen Keller: “I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sagittarian statesman Winston Churchill said that he was always ready to learn—even though there were times when he didn’t enjoy being taught. That might be a useful motto for you to adopt in the coming months. By my estimates, 2021 could turn out to bring a rather spectacular learning spurt—and a key boost to your life-long education. If you choose to take advantage of the cosmic potentials, you could make dramatic enhancements to your knowledge and skill set. As Churchill’ s message suggests, not all of your new repertoire will come easily and pleasantly. But I bet that at least 80 per cent of it will. Start planning!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In accordance with upcoming astrological indicators, I’ve got some good advice for you courtesy of your fellow Capricorn David Bowie. You’ll be well-served to keep it in mind between now and Jan. 1, 2021. “Go a little bit out of your depth,” counselled Bowie. “And when you don’t feel that your feet are quite touching the bottom, you’re just about in the right place to do something exciting.” For extra inspiration, I’ll add another prompt from the creator of Ziggy Stardust: “Once you lose that sense of wonder at being alive, you’re pretty much on the way out.” In that spirit, my dear Capricorn, please take measures to expand your sense of wonder during the next six weeks.

Make sure you’re on your way in.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Most of us aren’t brilliant virtuosos like, say, Leonardo da Vinci or Nobel Prizewinning scientist Marie Curie. On the other hand, every one of us has a singular amalgam of potentials that is unique in the history of the world—an exceptional flair or an idiosyncratic mastery or a distinctive blend of talents.

In my astrological opinion, you Aquarians will have unprecedented opportunities to develop and ripen this golden and glorious aspect of yourself in 2021. And now is a good time to begin making plans. I encourage you to launch your year-long Festival of Becoming by writing down a description of your special genius.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In 1969, humans flew a spaceship to the moon and landed on it for the first time. In 1970, the state of Alabama finally made it legal for interracial couples to get married. That’s a dramatic example of how we humans may be mature and strong in some ways even as we remain backward and undeveloped in other ways. According to my astrological analysis, the coming months will be a highly favourable time for the immature and unseasoned parts of you to ripen. I encourage you to get started!

Homework: Name something you feel like begging for.

Then visualize in great detail that this something is already yours. Report results to FreeWillAstrology.com

In addition to this column, Rob Brezsny creates

EXPANDED AUDIO HOROSCOPES

In-depth weekly forecasts designed to inspire and uplift you. To buy access, phone 1-888-499-4425. Once you’ve chosen the Block of Time you like, call 1-888-682-8777 to hear Rob’s forecasts. www.freewillastrology.com

NOTICE OF WAIVING OF PUBLIC HEARING ELECTORAL AREA A Marmot Land Use Contract Discharge Public Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 467 of the Local Government Act that a Public Hearing will be waived regarding the following bylaw: 1.

Squamish-Lillooet Regional District Land Use Contract Authorization Bylaw No. 143, 1978 (“LUC Bylaw”), Amendment Bylaw No. 1687-2020

As per section 546 of the Local Government Act, a land use contract may only be discharged with the agreement of the owner of any property that is described in the bylaw as being covered by the amendment. On June 24, 2020, the SLRD sent out an information letter to owners of 69 lots that are currently under the LUC bylaw, which also included a consent form. Property owners were instructed to send back a completed consent form to indicate interest in removing the LUC Bylaw in favour of the underlying zoning. Overall, the SLRD received consent to discharge the LUC Bylaw from 22 of 69 lots.

The remaining 47 lots will continue to be subject to the LUC Bylaw until June 30, 2024 when all land use contracts will be automatically terminated as per section 548 of the Local Government Act. The proposed Squamish-Lillooet Regional District Land Use Contract Authorization Bylaw No. 143, 1978, Discharge Bylaw No. 1687-2020 (the “Proposed Bylaw”), as attached, proposes to discharge the LUC Bylaw from title of 22 lots, and, once discharged from the LUC, these 22 lots will be subject to the Zoning Bylaw.

Join Us

VCH Virtual Open Board Forum Vancouver Coastal Health’s Board of Directors and senior leadership invite you to our virtual Open Board Forum. This meeting is dedicated to our communities in Sea to Sky, Sunshine Coast, Powell River and the Central Coast including Bella Coola and Bella Bella.

Open to the public, our virtual Open Board Forum is an opportunity to join a conversation with our Board and for us to hear from you. The Board Chair and senior leaders will provide updates on COVID-­‐19 as -­‐ more than ever -­‐ we want to stay connected to our communities in our Coastal region.

The meeting will stream online and we invite you to send questions in advance to ce@vch.ca. To join us, please email us at ce@vch.ca and we will send you a link to the streaming Open Board Forum a few days before the meeting. *Please note that this Open Board Forum has been moved from the originally planned date -­‐ October 7, 2020.

EVENT Vancouver Coastal Health Virtual Open Board Forum

DATE Monday, November 30th 6:30 to 8:30 pm

LOCATION Online. Please send an email to ce@vch.ca and we will send you a link to the streaming Open Board Forum a few days before the meeting.

We look forward to connecting with you.

HOST FAMILIES NEEDED IN WHISTLER! You have an amazing opportunity to open your home to an international student. Enjoy a unique cultural experience while sharing the beauty of Whistler.

Receive $1,500/month

INFORMATION & SUBMISSIONS? The proposed bylaw and relevant background documents may be inspected on page 64 of the following Board Agenda: https://slrd.civicweb.net/document/126366 Third reading of Bylaw No. 1687-2020 is scheduled for November 25, 2020. All persons who believe that their interest in the property is affected by the proposed bylaw shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to present written submissions respecting matters contained in the bylaw. Written submissions (mail or email) must be received at the SLRD office no later than 9 am Wednesday November 25, 2020.

Squamish-Lillooet Regional District Box 219, 1350 Aster Street, Pemberton, BC, V0N 2L0 • www.slrd.bc.ca P: 604-894-6371 • TF: 1-800-298-7753 F: 604-894-6526 • E: info@slrd.bc.ca

Hosting opportunities can be a few days, one semester, or a full school year - we will work with you to find the right fit.

CONTACT US TODAY! Janet Smillie International@sd48.bc.ca 604-892-5228 ext. 134 www.high-school-canada.com Ask about our $500 referral bonus!

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Spa Attendent Full or part-time with some evening shifts. Responsible for the safety and cleanliness of the hotel’s spa facilities including an outdoor pool and hot tub and lobby area. Must have previous guest service experience and an ability to multitask.

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NOW HIRING Grocery Clerks Produce Clerks Deli Clerks Meat Clerks Bakery Clerks Juice Bar Clerks E-mail or drop in your resume to: bruce_stewart@nestersmarket.com please cc ian_fairweather@nestersmarket.com or call us at 604-932-3545 PERKS • Competitive wage – Depending on expereince • Access to medical and dental benefits for full time applicants • Percentage discount from store bought goods • Flexible and set schedule

TRAVEL CONSULTANT 4 x 10 Hour Days Per Week, Year Round Position With Benefits Travel Consultants have a passion for ensuring that guests have the best possible vacation experience in Whistler. The main goal of Travel Consultants is to sell an entire Whistler vacation package, including accommodations, activities and transportation.

The successful candidate is an enthusiastic individual who can share their passion for Whistler and close the sale. Excellent communication skills, commitment to customer service, and knowledge of Whistler is essential for this role.

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Come Grow Sport with us at our Whistler Olympic Legacy Venues Whistler Athletes’ Centre (High-Performance Training and Accommodation) Positions for this venue are currently filled Whistler Sliding Centre (Bobsleigh, Luge & Skeleton) Facility Operations Worker

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HR Coordinator/Executive Assistant – Permanent, Full-time position Are you a natural?

Become one of the Village of Pemberton’s most valuable natural resources: our people.

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) the HR Coordinator/Executive Assistant supports a wide range of human resources issues and provides confidential administrative assistance to CAO, Mayor and Council. This position is responsible for the preparation of HR policies and procedures, full-cycle recruitment, performance management, labour relations, and all facets of the Village’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Program.

Qualifications include post-secondary education in Human Resources management or related field and a minimum of five years’ experience in a Human Resources Generalist role.

Experience working in local government/unionized setting is preferred. A CPHR designation and post-secondary education in Public Administration would be considered an asset.

If you would like to be part of a small team making a big difference, let’s talk. Please send your resume and cover letter to recruiting@pemberton.ca by Friday, November 27, 2020.

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VillageOfPemberton

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Chief Building Official (Full Time, Permanent)

DISPATCHER/ DISTRIBUTION SUPERVISOR

We are looking for an energetic, results-oriented individual with great customer service and interpersonal skills and a can-do attitude to join our busy oversee plan checking and building inspections. The operating environment of the Chief Building Official is split between the Regional District office and the field, where the Chief Building Official travels throughout the Electoral Areas of the Regional District, conducting field work which includes inspecting construction to ensure that design, material, workmanship and safety features meet or exceed standards and conform to accepted plan specifications established by the BC Building Code and SLRD bylaws and regulations.

The ideal candidate will be an upbeat team player with great attention to detail who possesses:

Can work a 4 or 5 day week including Friday - Sunday

Certification from the Building Officials’ Association of BC – minimum Level 1.

Thorough knowledge of the methods, material, tools and equipment used in building construction, repair and alterations.

• Comprehensive understanding of the BC Building Code, which includes the ability to read and interpret building plans, recognize requirements and accept or reject plans as required.

• Knowledge of geotechnical matters as they relate to building safety.

• An understanding of the statutory duties of the Building Official pursuant to the Local Government Act. • Ability to deal diplomatically and communicate effectively with elected officials, staff and customers, using good oral and written communications skills.

• Ability to exercise sound judgment, tact and diplomacy in the interpretation, application and enforcement of all regulations, acts, standards, codes and bylaws.

• Ability to work independently and assume responsibility for technical decisions.

• Graduation from a post-secondary institution with a diploma in Building Technology along with related field experience, or a building trades Journeyman with experience is preferred but not essential.

• Related experience in a local government setting is preferred.

For further information, please see the full job description at www.slrd.bc.ca/employment.

Potential to have a driver route as well, with reliable vehicle

Compensation will be determined commensurate with knowledge, skills and ability, includes a comprehensive benefit package and Municipal Pension Plan and offers the ability to work a compressed work week (nine-day fortnight).

Seeking a reliable individual to oversee the dispatching and package distribution for a large delivery operation in Function Junction.

The person best suited for the position…

Has a positive attitude is a fast-paced multi-tasker Always Reliable and available year-round

Call or email mail@wplpmedia.com or 604-815-3685 to see if this is the right opportunity for you.

• •

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume with a covering letter by email to: Nathalie Klein, Executive Assistant Squamish-Lillooet Regional District nklein@slrd.bc.ca Please reply by 5 PM on November 22, 2020.

We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest. However, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

NOVEMBER 19, 2020

51

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Communications & Projects Coordinator (Permanent, F/T)

Career Opportunities at the District of Squamish Economic Development Specialist - Temporary Full-Time Senior Financial Services Specialist - Permanent Full-Time Recreation Facility Attendant 1 - Casual/On-Call Recreation Facility Attendant 2 - Casual/On-Call Janitor - Casual/On-Call Building Inspector - Casual/On-Call

To find out more, please visit: squamish.ca/careers

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DO YOU jobs@pembertonvalleylodge.com LIVE IN Competitive PEMBERTON? wages, THEN WHY health benefits, casual COMMUTE environment TO WHISTLER?

The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) is located in southwestern BC and consists of 4 member municipalities (Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, Lillooet) and 4 electoral areas. The region contains some of the most spectacular forests, waterways, and mountains in the province and affords an endless range of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Headquartered in Pemberton, which is the approximate geographic centre of the region, the SLRD delivers a wide range of regional, sub-regional and local services to its residents. Services include land use planning, solid waste management, building inspection, fire protection, emergency preparedness, 911 services, recreation, water and sewer utilities, regional transit, trails and open spaces as well as financial support for various community services.

The SLRD is seeking an experienced individual to perform communications, grant administration duties, community outreach and project management planning and implementation in support and under the direction of the Director of Environmental Services. This is a new permanent, full-time position with diverse responsibilities. At this time, it is anticipated that this position will initially be remote due to the COVID pandemic but will, in accordance with the SLRD reopening plan, eventually be located at the SLRD office in Pemberton.

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Candidates must have marketing and graphic design skills, experience in project implementation and superior communication and public engagement skills with the ability to work within deadlines.

The successful candidate will be responsible for: •

Developing and implementing departmental communications plans.

•

Coordinating the development, design, production and delivery of a variety of printed and electronic information and marketing materials.

•

Monitoring, analysing and reporting on metrics related to various communications and public engagement activities, including web and social media analytics.

•

Developing, delivering, evaluating and reporting on community engagement Solid Waste Regional Management campaigns.

•

Coordinating community relations, engagement and education.

•

Reviewing various grant funding opportunities, compiling information, writing grant applications and completing grant reporting requirements.

•

Performing other related work as required.

For further information, please see the full job description at www.slrd.bc.ca/employment.

Compensation will be determined commensurate with knowledge, skills and ability, includes a comprehensive benefit package and Municipal Pension Plan and offers the ability to work a compressed work week (nine-day fortnight).

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume with a covering letter by email, no later than December 7, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. to: Angela Belsham, Director of Environmental Services Squamish-Lillooet Regional District abelsham@slrd.bc.ca We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

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NOVEMBER 19, 2020

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Interested in Innovative Indigenous Health Care?

We want to hear from you.

At Southern Stl’atl’imx Health Society, we believe the keys to First Nations health can be found in our cultural and land. This is reflected in our commitment to providing Stl’atl’imx–enhanced services, from land-based therapies to cultural family service programs. We’re looking for compassionate, creative and flexible health professionals to join us in delivering and creating ‘ ‘ innovative health and wellness services to our 500 members in NQuatqua, QaLatku7em, Skatin and Tipella.

Clinical Counsellor (25 hours/week)

Family Preservation Worker (Full-time)

The Clinical Counsellor is responsible for providing comprehensive, short- and long-term culturally-appropriate, therapeutic, substance abuse, mental wellness, addictions, and related services to adults and families. This position works within the context of a client-centered, family-centered, and community-based perspective in accordance with established standards of professional practice, and the vision and values of the SSHS.

The Family Preservation Worker implements culturally appropriate programming that supports the development and enhancement of families. Prevention and early interventions to reduce the number of children in care is the focus of this tole. The Family Preservation Worker may also take the lead role in coordinating resources that enhance families, such as parenting workshops, counselling, treatment options, cultural healing activities and in-home support.

Our ideal candidate will have the following qualifications:

Our ideal candidate will have the following qualifications:

• •

• • • • • • • •

• • • •

Completion of a Masters in Social Work or equivalent degree At least three (3) years of experience working with individuals and families with mild to moderate mental health and substance abuses challenges Demonstrated experience working with concurrent disorders Demonstrated experience and understanding of the modalities that support clients to manage the intergenerational impacts of long-term trauma Demonstrated skills in analysis of systemic issues impacting clients Demonstrated cultural competency and sensitivity of First Nations Peoples

Bachelors of Social Work degree Experience working with vulnerable children, youth and families Experience and ability to work with family groups Experience implementing programs and special events Knowledge of the Child, Family and Community Services Act Demonstrated trauma-informed practice Demonstrated skills in analysis of systemic issues impacting clients Demonstrated cultural competency and sensitivity of First Nations Peoples

Family Support Worker (Full-time)

Child Maternal Health RN/LPN (Full-time)

The Family Support Worker implements culturally appropriate programming that supports the development and enhancement of families. This role supports families in working collaboratively with support services, external agencies, schools, health services and MCFD when required. The Family Support Worker may also take the lead role in coordinating resources that enhance families to work better together.

The Maternal Child Health RN/LPN provides maternity and newborn care through support groups , one-on-one sessions and home visit. From developing birthing plans to helping with infant care, the Child Maternal Health Nurse works to support growing families. Assisting clients to connect with other services as required is an important part of this role, as is resolving any client concerns regarding support services.

Our ideal candidate will have the following qualifications:

Our ideal candidate will have the following qualifications:

•

• •

• • • • • •

Social Service Diploma or equivalent (can be in process) or a combination of experience, education and training (3-5 years) Experience working with vulnerable children, youth and families Experience and ability to work with family groups.

Knowledge of the Child, Family and Community Services Act Demonstrated trauma-informed practice Demonstrated skills in analysis of systemic issues impacting clients Demonstrated cultural competency and sensitivity of First Nations Peoples

• • • • •

Registered and licensed with the BC College of Nursing Professionals Education and experience in Maternal Child Health, Pediatric Nursing, Maternity Nursing or other related field Experience working in First Nations health or public health environment Experience working with families in the pre/post pregnancy stages of life Standard First Aid and CPR Level “C” Certification is considered an asset Neonatal Resuscitation and Breastfeeding Education is considered an asset Cultural competency and sensitivity of First Nations Peoples

SSHS is a progressive First Nations health society committed to program innovation and excellence in service delivery. We offer a collaborative, respectful work environment and attractive compensation packages that include Extended Health benefits, generous vacation leave, pension matching, and professional development opportunities. Relocation expenses can also be negotiated.

For a full job description for any of the above positions, please contact Fran Hopkins at fran.hopkins@sshs.ca. For more information about SSHS, please visit: www.sshs.ca. First Nations, and other Indigenous people, are encouraged to apply.

NOVEMBER 19, 2020

55

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 49

NOVEMBER 19, 2020

57

MAXED OUT

You can’t make this stuff up…

STORIES ARE TOLD about the days of yore in Tiny Town when money laundering was big small business for Harry McKeever.

Actually it was laundering money, as in money earned by owning the town’s only laundromat, the eponymous Dirty Harry’s Laundromat.

Harry, it’s said, lugged around sacks of coins earned from his earlier vending machine business and the coin-operated laundry machines. It sounds a lot like a client I used to have when I had clients. He owned apartment buildings and each was stuffed with vending machines and laundry

BY G.D. MAXWELL rooms. His car, a big Cadillac of course, looked like it had been tricked out by some low rider because of the weight of all the coins in the trunk. It was, he said, a very lucrative, very cash business. Who’s to say otherwise?

Certainly not the former BC Liberal government, or so it seems.

Earlier this year, with nothing much to do because of the pandemic, Premier John Horgan launched the Commission of Inquiry into Money Laundering in the province called the Cullen Commission. It’s called that because the Commissioner is Austin Cullen, BC Supreme Court Justice.

Justice Cullen was appointed to the Court in 2001, around the time the Liberals under Gordon Campbell came to power, and was named Associate Chief Justice in 2011, around the time Christy Clark took over.

I can’t be sure that’s important, but at least it underscores the point that Justice Cullen is not, at least politically, beholden in any way to the current NDP government.

Given some of the hair-raising testimony the Commission has heard, it might be, though.

The Commission grew out of repeated reports that B.C. was a hotbed of money laundering—the act of turning tainted, as in criminally tainted, money into nice, clean money, the kind you and I might have after we get paid by our employers, assuming we don’t work for a criminal syndicate.

Its mandate, in as few words as possible, is to make findings about the scope and growth of money laundering in B.C., who might have acted or failed to act to keep it from happening or help make it happen, and how we might close down the laundry.

Hair started rising rapidly last week when retired RCMP officer Fred Pinnock, testified that senior cabinet ministers in the Liberal government of the day were up to their eyeballs in suds. He testified not only was the government not interested in cracking down on organized crime’s involvement in money laundering at casinos, they were counting on it to fatten government coffers.

I guess as provincial taxpayers we might find that admirable, but as my old friend Mark used to say, “We’re all just whores.

58 NOVEMBER 19, 2020

GETTYIMAGES.CA

The only difference is what we’re willing to do for money.”

Allegedly, what former solicitor-general and minister of public safety, Kash Heed, and the solicitor-general before that and deputy premier, Rich Coleman, were willing to do went beyond just turning a blind eye to money laundering. They are alleged to have embraced it and stymied efforts to thwart it.

It’s probably important at this point to say I’m not making this up. As a writer, if I submitted a story where two guys called Kash and Rich were senior government

fight the urge to call Kash and Rich Mr. Pink and Mr. Brown.

OK, that’s better. Now if you’re wondering about Mr. Pinnock’s bona fides, he ran the RCMP’s illegal gambling enforcement team for a couple of years. He took medical leave late in 2007 and retired not long after, following 29 years with the force. He said he was fed up with his senior RCMP officers’ lack of support for his efforts to go after high-level money laundering through B.C.’s casinos, preferring instead to have him pursue hot cases of illegal bingo, slots, lotteries and other nickel-and-dime

I’m not optimistic the Cullen Commission will wind up putting striped prison garb on anyone.

ministers with an alleged interest in facilitating money laundering, I’m pretty sure any editor with half a brain would make me change their names. Things like this made me give up writing fiction—I can’t make stuff up as good as it sometimes already is.

And as good as this is, it gets even better.

Mr. Pinnock testified Mr. Heed’s hands-off attitude was put in place by Mr. Coleman and others in cabinet at the time. He also testified, wait for it, that senior Mounties were in on it.

Let that sink in for a moment while I

nonsense. I guess there’s only so much satisfaction you can take busting illegal 50-50 draws when you know a tsunami of offshore money is going through the spin cycle under your nose.

Not surprisingly, this wasn’t the only instance of indifferent politicians and blindjustice law enforcement. The Commission also heard from another ex-Mountie out of Richmond who testified municipal politicians and his bosses wouldn’t approve a plan to form a unit to go after money laundering at the River Rock Casino.

Nothing to see here, folks.

Naturally, Mr. Pink and Mr. Brown were unwilling to comment on Mr. Pinnock’s testimony.

But I’m having a tough time getting my mind around the “Senior Mountie” angle in all this. The Mounties are a federal and national police force. They’re not beholden to provincial or municipal politicians. Why would senior Mounties play along with politicians who: a) don’t determine the arc of their careers; and b) would be serious notches on their guns if they brought them down for nonsense like this?

That leads me to two possible conclusions. Either Mr. Pinnock is mistaken about their involvement or there was some inducement other than their careers in play.

The only way we’ll answer that conundrum is to follow the money and see where it leads.

I’m not optimistic the Cullen Commission will wind up putting striped prison garb on anyone. I’ve been to too many of these rodeos to believe anything like that will happen and, frankly, the Canadian criminal justice system is too timid for me to believe such an outcome is even possible, let alone likely. In the end, there will be lessons learned, apologies made, guilt avoided and justice frustrated and more likely than not, business as usual.

Heck, it’s almost more likely the government of B.C. would embrace money laundering as a way out of the pandemic monetary blues. Come to think of it... Naw. You can follow the Cullen Commission for yourself if you’re looking for true life, reality TV entertainment in these pandemic times, including archived video of previous sessions, at https://cullencommission.ca/ n

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604-616-6933 Maggi Thornhill *PREC

WHISTLER CAY HEIGHTS 6318 Fairway Drive Luxury New Custom Home features 5 beds, 5 baths, media room & office. Double garage & HRV heating w built-in A/C. Beautiful mountain views & 2 spacious covered decks. Unique under construction opportunity in an exclusive central location. $5,998,000

PEMBERTON MEADOWS 8354 Pemberton Meadows Road Imagine a 3.5 bdrm/2bath country home with a wrap around deck, that sits on 3 acres in park like setting with mature trees, flowers and veggie garden. Spectacular views all around, including Mount Currie. $1,399,000

604-905-8199 Brigitta Fuess

604-932-0751

NEW TO MARKET

SQUAMISH – DOWNTOWN 509 The Lauren – 38013 Third Avenue This light & bright one bed + den/one bath is like new with upgraded appliances, light colour scheme & views! Cozy up to the electric fireplace. Oversize, overheight, secure parking, storage, rooftop community patio & bike room. $489,000

Katherine Currall

SQUAMISH - DOWNTOWN 38349 Eaglewind Blvd Driveway big enough to park in!!

1330 sq ft, 3 bdrm, 2.5 bathroom, 2 car tandem garage, built 2017, mountain views, gas fireplace, the list continues! davidwiebe.ca $745,000

604-966-1364 David Wiebe *PREC

PEMBERTON 2009 Tiyata Blvd Enjoy small town living & peace of mind in this open concept 4 bedroom , 3 deck, single garage home.

Built to exacting standards backed by 2-5-10 warranty. Full website - http://9.digitalopenhou.se $859,000

604-966-8874 Ken Achenbach

Whistler Village Shop

Whistler Creekside Shop

Squamish Station Shop

36-4314 Main Street · Whistler BC V8E 1A8 · Phone +1 604-932-1875

325-2063 Lake Placid Road · Whistler BC V8E 0B6 · Phone +1 604-932-1875

150-1200 Hunter Place · Squamish BC V8B 0G8 · Phone +1 778-733-0611

whistler.evrealestate.com

whistler.evrealestate.com

whistler.evrealestate.com

Engel & Völkers Whistler *PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION ©2019 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

604-966-7640

3D Tour - rem.ax/8624forest

8624 Forest Ridge Drive

3D Tour - rem.ax/3282arbutus

$2,999,000

Thisisaperfectfamilyretreatwith5bedroomsandalargerecreationalroom,3.5bathrooms, stunningmountainviewsfromtheopenplanlivingspaceandmasterbedroom.Thehuge sundeckhasbeenexpandedforfabulousoutdoorentertainingandstepsdowntoabeautiful swimmingpool,irrigatedlawnandgardens,barn,paddocksandoutdoorridingring.

Sally Warner*

5.5

604.905.6326

3282 Arbutus Drive

3D Tour - rem.ax/3800sunridgeplace

$2,499,000

Bright family home within walking distance to Whistler Village with beautiful Blackcomb Mountain views. Open concept floor plan is perfect for entertaining.

Flex room could be used for an office or bedroom plus master bedroom are situated on the main level. The upper level showcases 3 bedrooms with a loft.

Ursula Morel*

7

604.932.8629

3800 Sunridge Place

Priced well below replacement, 3800 provides the perfect Multi Generational home where family and friends can connect and rejuvenate. Planned to perfection for sharing; the home offers 5 bedrooms, media room, family room and office in a private location. Available for showings by appointment.

Ann Chiasson

3D Tour - rem.ax/23gleneagle

#23 - 4636 Blackcomb Way

$1,988,000

3

604.935.2214

#3 - 2024 Innsbruck Drive

$559,000

Nightly rental zoning makes this the best investment opportunity while still allowing you the freedom to live there full time or rent it monthly. Enjoy the easy access, and the bright fresh feel of mountain village living. With one bedroom and loft there’s room for friends and family to visit. GST is not applicable on this sale.

Bruce Watt

1

604.905.0737

#101 - 3050 Hillcrest Drive

$899,000

#315 - 7350 Crabapple Court

Chris Wetaski

$539,900

Fabulous opportunity to own this top floor, 3-bedroom, corner unit, in this completely green built complex. This southwest facing property offers lots of natural light from the energy efficient triple pane windows, and fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and Mount Currie.

Dave Beattie*

Dave Halliwell

3D Tour - rem.ax/57eagle

#57 - 6127 Eagle Ridge Cres.

$1,450,000

604.902.2033

#312 - 3317 Ptarmigan Place

$1,200,000

Thisunithasahadawonderfulrenovationthatisclean,brightandmodern.Highgloss cabinetryinthekitchencomplimentsthelargeporcelaintilesandhighendapplianceswhich areroundedoutwithaglassfrontedwinecooler.Metroseries5lightbarwithchromelamps pouramplelightoverthePampaglassdiningtablemadeofbrushedstainlesssteel.

Dave Sharpe

2

604.902.2779

3D Tour - rem.ax/8349needles

3 bed, 3 bath, 1423 sf renovated townhome in Whistler Cay Heights. An amazing family home walking distance to Whistler Village. New kitchen & appliances, w/d, bathroom, carpet, furniture, paint, refinished hardwood floors ++. 2 parking spaces (1 open/1 covered). Video tour at rem.ax/57Video. Call today to view.

Denise Brown*

3

604.932.7727

2

604.938.2499

3D Tour - rem.ax/312greyhawk

Privacy and convenience at Wedgewooods! Build your dream home up to 4,628 square feet plus a separate auxiliary building of 2,152 on this 1.88-acre property. Lot 7 on Riverside in Phase 1 of Wedgewoods is a short drive from Whistler. Appreciate the privacy and depth of this lot, surrounded by majestic mountains.

604.905.8855

$1,075,000

A very desirable, two bedroom two bath, open style floorplan. The home was completely renovated in 2019, the improvements include; new vinyl windows, interior doors, heated wood and tile flooring, custom kitchen cabinetry with quartz countertops, and high quality Kitchenaid and Bosch appliances.

SOLD

9024 Riverside Road

5

604.932.7651

3D Tour - rem.ax/101altavista

With3bedroomsplusarecroom&3fullbaths,there’splentyofroomforfamily&friends.

Updatedandfullyequipped,thisisaturn-keyoffering.Offeringunlimitedownerusagewith theoptionofshort-termrentalincome.Locatedinthesouthwestcornerofthecomplex& frontingontothefirstfairwayoftheFairmontChateaugolfcourse.

Bob Cameron*

$7,395,000

3

8349 Needles Drive

$2,699,000

Large 1 bedroom suite and your very own 4 bedroom 2.5 bath chalet for your family to enjoy this season! Post and beam construction with vaulted ceilings, sky lights, maple hardwood floors, gas fireplace, large picture windows with expansive mountain views.

Doug Treleaven

WHISTLER OFFICE 106 - 7015 Nesters Road, Whistler, BC V8E 0X1 604.932.2300 or Toll Free 1.888.689.0070 *PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

If you are a home owner, buyer, tenant, landlord, or small business in need of help during this time, please see our updated list of resources at: remax-whistler.com/resources

604.905.8626

6

#221 - 2222 Castle Drive

$1,399,000

Unit 221 features a very functional floor plan on two levels with a spacious vaulted ceiling in the living room, wood burning fireplace, real hardwood flooring and large sunny deck off the dining room. There is also a private hot tub on the ground level patio to unwind in after a fun filled day in the mountains.

James Collingridge

604.902.0132

3

PEMBERTON OFFICE 1411 Portage Road, Pemberton, BC V0N 2L1 604.894.6616 or Toll Free 1.888.689.0070