Pique Newsmagazine 2812

MARCH 25, 2021 ISSUE 28.12

WWW.PIQUENEWSMAGAZINE.COM

FREE

FROM DESPAIR

A Whistler woman’s story of love and pregnancy loss

14

FESTIVAL FUN Gibbons Whistler reveals a revamped WSSF highlighting local talent

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PASS PRICES

WB winter passes will

be 20-per-cent cheaper next year

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BIG DEBUT

Whistler author Rebecca

Wood Barrett reveals her new book

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THIS WEEK IN PIQUE

42

46

36 Out from the shadows A Whistler woman’s story of love and pregnancy loss. - By Jessie Morden

14

FESTIVAL FUN

Plans are underway by Gibbons

26

TOURISM SUPPORT

Village of Pemberton

Whistler to run the World Ski and Snowboard Festival—virtually—and

council submits a resolution to the Lower Mainland Local Government

introduce some brand new events.

Association to ask for support with increased regional travellers.

15 SUPER SAVINGS

Vail Resorts announces that

42

FOR THE GIRLS

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pass prices are being cut by 20 per cent in part to try and increase

coach Meghan Hebert is being honoured with the prestigious Bobbie Steen

skier numbers.

Legacy Award for emerging female leaders in B.C. sports.

20

SURVEY SAYS

Municipality launches Community

46

BIG DEBUT

Whistler author Rebecca Wood Barrett

Life Survey with new email sign-up option. Results help track service

explores the idea of what might live under the snowbanks in her brand

performance and understand community priorities and needs.

new middle-grade book, My Best Friend is Extinct.

COVER As a child of a mother who was told she couldn’t bear children after a miscarriage before me, I hope that women struggling through this never lose hope. While I’ve always hated being called a “miracle,” like it or not, my existence is proof of such things. - By Jon Parris 4 MARCH 25, 2021

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THIS WEEK IN PIQUE

Opinion & Columns 08 OPENING REMARKS We have just marked the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of

#202 -1390 ALPHA LAKE RD., FUNCTION JUNCTION, WHISTLER, B.C. V8E 0H9.

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

Racial Discrimination—which reminds us to fight all types of discrimination every day.

Founding Publishers KATHY & BOB BARNETT

10 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR One letter writer this week suggests Vail Resorts should take a

Publisher SARAH STROTHER - sstrother@wplpmedia.com

second look at how buddy-tickets are issued, while another gives thanks for a kind act.

Editor CLARE OGILVIE - edit@piquenewsmagazine.com Assistant Editor ALYSSA NOEL - arts@piquenewsmagazine.com Sales Manager SUSAN HUTCHINSON - shutchinson@wplpmedia.com Production Manager AMIR SHAHRESTANI - ashahrestani@wplpmedia.com Art Director JON PARRIS - jparris@wplpmedia.com Advertising Representatives

13 PIQUE’N YER INTEREST Writer Andrew Mitchell spent most of his life avoiding the coffee habit, but now after a series of studies touts it as a “superfood” he’s acquiring the java habit.

62 MAXED OUT Max encourages you to think about what you would like to see on the empty lot at 4500 Northlands Blvd. Anything but parking.

AMY ALLEN - aallen@wplpmedia.com TESSA SWEENEY - tsweeney@wplpmedia.com Digital/Sales Coordinator AMELA DIZDARIC - traffic@wplpmedia.com Production production@piquenewsmagazine.com LOU O’BRIEN - lstevens@wplpmedia.com

Environment & Adventure

Arts & Entertainment Editor ALYSSA NOEL arts@piquenewsmagazine.com

35 RANGE ROVER The Earth cannot sustain the rate at which we are consuming it, writes Leslie

Features Editor BRANDON BARRETT - bbarrett@piquenewsmagazine.com

Anthony. It’s time for each one of us to do something to protect the Earth.

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

Lifestyle & Arts

Classifieds and Reception mail@piquenewsmagazine.com Office and Accounts Manager HEIDI RODE - hrode@wplpmedia.com Contributors G.D. MAXWELL, GLENDA BARTOSH, FEET BANKS, LESLIE ANTHONY, ANDREW MITCHELL, ALISON TAYLOR, VINCE SHULEY, LISA RICHARDSON President, Whistler Publishing LP

44 EPICURIOUS Fraser Carey, Whistler Community Services Society’s food security coordinator, is helping to change the way we think about food banks, one meal kit at a time.

48 MUSEUM MUSINGS Newsletters and newspapers have long existed in the resort. This week find out more about how the community shared information pre-1970.

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 2021 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).

ISSN #1206-2022 Subscriptions: $76.70/yr. within Canada, $136.60/yr. courier within Canada. $605.80/ yr. courier to USA. GST included. GST Reg. #R139517908.

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OPENING REMARKS

We hear you. We see you.

We stand with you.

THIS HEADLINE represents what I want all people who are racialized, who are discriminated against for their identities, cultures or their beliefs to know.

We are on a journey together and Pique is part of that. We do not have all the answers and we have made, and might again make, mistakes along the way. But we hear you, see you and stand with you.

March 21 marked the UN’s International day for the Elimination of Racial

BY CLARE OGILVIE edit@piquenewsmagazine.com

Discrimination, and predictably we heard from the province and the federal government on the issue.

Said B.C.’s premier John Horgan (NDP): “We know there’s more to do and the issue of racism will not be solved by these actions alone. Today, and every day, we must stand firm in our commitment for equality and justice.”

inclusive, and better Canada for everyone.”

This all comes as we absorb another mass shooting in the U.S., which looks to be targeted at people of Asian descent. And closer to home we learned this week that Vancouver’s former mayor Gregor Robertson’s new wife Eileen Park, who is of Korean heritage, received threats and vile comments on social media when their wedding pictures went public this week in Vogue magazine.

Indeed we have seen anti-Asian sentiments skyrocket during this pandemic.

We all know the big picture, and over the last year we have seen the impact of racist attitudes against people of colour, with those against Canada’s First People’s some of the most disturbing.

What is needed is an understanding by each of us at an individual level that change is needed. Many of us believe we are aware of how we use language, images and behaviour to act in a non-discriminatory fashion (something Pique has been actively engaging in by considering how we reflect all our readers and users in our coverage). But this is something we have to be acutely conscious of in order to create long-term change.

“While we have made progress toward a more just and equal society, more still needs to be done, and the Government of Canada remains committed to this work…”

- JUSTIN TRUDEAU

And the government has told us that it is working to introduce B.C.’s first antiracism Act. Federally, Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said: “While we have made progress toward a more just and equal society, more still needs to be done, and the Government of Canada remains committed to this work…

I encourage Canadians to stand up against racism, discrimination, and xenophobia, whenever and wherever they occur. By working together, we can build a fairer, more

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Let me give you a couple of recent examples. A few weeks ago, Pique ran a lovely letter from a couple celebrating the life of their pet, a dog that was a rescue-puppy from the Pemberton region. In the letter and headline we said “Mount Currie mutts.” This phrase absolutely was in no way meant to be offensive or derogatory, and was in fact considered to be a term of endearment.

But we are wrong to think this, and it showed a lack of consideration, understanding and a sort of paternalist view that has no place

in Pique or any other publication today.

Some residents of Mount Currie reached out to me and explained how hurtful this term was to them, and also shared how this perpetuated a myth that the dogs that walk around Mount Currie are not cared for. Indeed, one person told me that a resident, more than once, has had to go to an animal shelter and ask for their dog back after someone driving through just took the pet away thinking it was a stray. I am deeply grateful to get this feedback, and I welcome it.

Pique wanted to follow up and write a news story about this issue, but those who reached me would not go public—and I recognize that this reticence stems from a long mistrust Indigenous peoples have of the media, something Pique has worked on for years to address.

My second example is linked to a letter to the editor this week commenting on a recent opinion column by a Pique reporter celebrating her pregnancy and offering some lessons she wanted to share with her baby from her own life experiences.

But from the letter writer’s perspective, what the column did was assume that the baby, a female, would grow up to identify as a girl. If parents do not give their children space to find their own gender as they grow, the outcomes long-term can be devastating for all, said the letter writer.

While I would argue that the column’s writer’s advice is valid for any sex identity, and as opinion is valid and authentically expressed, in reacting to it, this week’s letter writer made us think about the issue from the perspective of someone who had a different life experience.

It is the fact that these events occurred in the pages of Pique, where we are consciously aware of portraying our community fairly and accurately, that underpins the understanding that we each have to examine our outlook along this journey.

This is a journey of a lifetime and one that has to be done in partnership. So Pique is asking you, how can we do better? n

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Tim Lischkoff, CPA, CA / tim@gskllp.ca / 604-892-9100

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Bring-a-buddy ski system needs COVID-19 tweak Got a text message from Vail [Resorts] the other day encouraging me to use my “bring a buddy” discount passes of which I received two 50-per-cent off and six 25-per-cent off with my Whistler Blackcomb season pass.

I have two adult children (over 30) whose mug shots have appeared under my profile for 10 years. When you buy a “discount pass” you “assign a name” making them non-transferable and thereby eliminating any potential of scalping.

Herein lies the problem. Although I paid $99 each for the 50-per-cent-off and $140 each for the 25-per-cent-off passes, the rule is you have to accompany your “buddies” up the hill. You have to have a reservation for that day and be at the load with your buddies or, and I quote the Vail [Resorts] supervisor “we will charge you the discount back.”

The reason my adult children are able to come to Whistler on a Friday night to ski Saturday is because I vacate my home here to care three days each week for my 90-yearold mom in Burnaby. I choose the weekends because it’s much busier and thus I free up a spot for the working weekenders, and avoid my boys who are not in my “bubble,” which is my mom. By the time I return Monday, my house has had time for potential germs to be gone.

Vail [Resorts’] text encouraged me to “bring a buddy” skiing who cannot by [COVID-19] rules stay at my home, eat at the same table in one of the lodges, or ride in a gondola with me.

Truth is, I have not been able to see more than the backend of my Whistler Mountain Ski Club alumni son since he was nine years old, and he would have a “love-ya-Ma run” with me, but that would be about it.

While I was able to escalate and get an exception, I was assured it was not going to be permitted again. I have many friends who would happily give their Buddy passes to my kids as they view them as their friends too.

I don’t understand why [Vail Resorts] doesn’t want the $99 and $140 per day in a lean season. Seems like a no-brainer.

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On Saturday, March 20, at around 3:15 p.m., I was standing in a rather long line of mainly young people in front of the Great Glass Elevator Candy Store, to buy a happy birthday balloon—the last detail for my sister’s 65th birthday dinner at our place in Whistler.

A gentleman, accompanied by two young children, went to the front of the line and asked

I encourage great caution in getting over enthused about Sue Saw’s (“Question all levels of government on the pandemic,” March 11) letter regarding the pandemic, and the reinforcement of Dr. [Tom] DeMarco’s a week later [“We need herd immunity against brainwashing politicians”].

Both fail to meet the mark of clear analysis, even though the latter at least acknowledges that we have other crises to deal with.

Saw’s notion that we have “thousands of

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Kindness appreciated

Science is gold standard, not opinion

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Encouraging people to “bring a buddy” with them under the current Vail Resorts policy is a blatant disregard for provincial [COVID-19] rules and makes it virtually impossible for passholders to use them.

Cheryl Springman // Whistler

permission to jump the queue since what he wanted would only take a minute—an in-andout event.

I stated that my aim to only buy a happy birthday balloon was not different.

He offered to buy the balloon if I supported his request. When he refused my cash, I returned to my place in the queue to wait for my turn. A few minutes later, the gentleman exited the store and headed towards me holding a Happy Birthday balloon. He handed it to me and refused payment, stating that he was in the spirit of giving.

I managed to get home and place the balloon, just in time before my sister arrived.

We had a nice celebration and everyone was touched by the story of the balloon.

It is always nice to witness that kindness is still alive.

Many thanks, sir, for your kindness. May karma reward you and yours.

Dorin Ruse // Whistler

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR esteemed multidisciplinary scientific opinions” reveals a trap we must all get more conscious of. The acceptance that personal opinion is—in some way—as important as analysis by those trained in a difficult discipline gets us in trouble at every juncture. Indeed, to return to DeMarco’s letter, we are “playing Russian roulette” with such issues as climate stability precisely because we have come through, or are in, an era where everyone’s opinion is taken as valid as any others. Science is not political, history is full of examples where opinion trumped clear analysis, and each time humanity lost.

I doubt if there is even a handful of people in our corridor who can even understand the mathematics necessary to predict the outcomes of a pandemic, and not many more that understand that statistics indicate that Dr. DeMarco has “not lost a single patient to the disease” is irrelevant.

I think we are fortunate to have had some clear science—perhaps delivered too kindly— by [Provincial Health Officer] Dr. [Bonnie] Henry, and if we were to make comparisons to what happens in Alberta or south of the border, the politicians here have been neither “brainwashing” nor “fear-mongering.”

Al Whitney // Whistler

Gender assumptions can devastate Firstly I’d like to congratulate your staff member on having a bun in the oven, truly ecstatic for them and their partner and wish them both an easy pregnancy and healthy baby.

Now, I picked up Pique for the first time in a while (as it’s just always in my daily trajectory here in Squamish) and I have to say, the first article I read was extremely disappointing, especially from the magazine I respect most in the corridor.

The [opinion column, “Lessons for a girl in 2021,” March 11] hurts me on various levels, so bear with [me] and I’ll explain.

Firstly, Pique shared what is essentially the insight to a gender-reveal party, these things are a serious plight in the transphobic world and it shocked me to even read it in a magazine that has been supportive of trans wellbeing.

I mean your staff gave my Boy In The Blue Dress project a full half-page [article] a year ago and the (journalist/editor) went out of their way to make sure all my pronouns [were] lined up correctly, as it was essentially the first time I came out publicly.

Allow me to elaborate for a mo’ on this point. I had to “come out” because I was assigned a gender. We know what a big deal it is to come out and it should be celebrated; it’s the dismantling of a being forced to live a lie that has dictated mine or anyone else’s life all because of the gender (or heteronormative sexual orientation) that was assigned to them at or before birth.

Now when I started reading [the March 11 opinion column] I was hoping the narrative would take a turn and be some sort of revelation to this awful affair that is revealing the gender of a fetus... it didn’t.

This brings me to my second and combinedthird point.

Theoretically… you have been presented with the sex of your child, [but neither] you, your partner nor a doctor can tell you the gender of your child, if they even have one, as only they will know.

Gender is a spectrum, it’s not male or female nor is it in conjunction with the sex. Sex and gender are totally separate things, there are two sexes and 72 genders.

Count your blessings if you have been comfortable in your gender and please just accept that others aren’t and that makes navigating this world difficult. The only time I’ll collectively speak for the entire community is when I say we have enough difficulties and they’d be made a million times easier if [people] just left us [to] simply exist.

This ties into my third point, although your article talks about the big, bad world and traumas your child will or might face, you yourself have also given it the biggest pressure of all by assigning a gender to them based on their sex.

This is [a] pressure kids do not need!

You are boxing[-in] your child before they’re even born and that is mainly why I [am] reach[ing] out. [T]his happened to me and I’ve been heavily suicidal up until I came out[—]amongst many other difficulties I face having to live with the gender the world, the government, the doctors and my parents told me I was and… forced me to live a lie for 29 years of my life.

Can you see how damaging this is?

Say you’re a man and you’re forced to wear women’s clothes all day, you’re not gonna like it are you? You can’t speak up about it or even wear the clothes you want, cause guess what, the world will eat you alive. [T]his is a difficulty that I fear for the future soul of this (editor/ journalist’s) child, one they have not mentioned and one they as parents might bring to the child’s life before they face the rest of the issues the (editor/journalist) had mentioned, or the ones that are an onset of forcing a gender on a child, like suicidal tendencies.

I write this to you not to attack the writer or Pique (as much as I wish people’s eyes never saw it), but more so for them to realize the potential weight and damage they are doing to a soul that has yet to enter this world by assigning their gender and putting them at risk of losing a lifetime of potential happiness and being the truest version of themselves.

I beg you, as someone who has lived a lie and missed out on so much, and fortunately evaded completing suicide numerous times, please do not force a gender onto your child and please, please just let them find it for themselves, if they even have one. They will tell you, and that day will be more special than giving them pink or blue clothes, I promise and I don’t throw around the “p” word lightly.

If you need someone to talk to about this, my door is always open.

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We need more vigilance, not less Dr. [Tom] DeMarco’s dismissal of COVID-19 puts him on the same team as Mr. Bolsonaro,

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.

Engel & Völkers Whistler

MARCH 25, 2021

11

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CONGRAT UL AT ION S T O THE S E L L E RS !

In less than a week the Sellers achieved a selling price well over the asking price! This is a challenging market, and identifying the right selling strategy takes experience.

If you’re considering selling, call or email me and I will guide you through the process!

Laura Wetaski • Engel & Völkers Whistler

Phone: 604-938-3798 Email: laura@wetaski.com #36 4314 Main Street, Whistler

Nick Davies, Whistler local and experienced family lawyer practising across BC andYukon.

Call at 604-602-9000 or visit www.macleanlaw.ca Maclean Law is headquartered in Vancouver with offices across British Columbia.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR President of Brazil, [former U.S. President Donald] Trump, and [U.K. Prime Minister] Boris Johnson in the first four months of the pandemic.

[Letter to the editor, March 18, “We need herd immunity against brainwashing politicians.”]

It is not coincidental that the U.S., Brazil, and the U.K. have the first, second and fifth highest COVID-19 death counts on the planet.

Fortunate for the doctor that he hasn’t lost anyone to COVID, but with respect, it is myopically self-absorbed to ignore the health care workers, friends and families of the 2.7

would otherwise fill those beds.

There is no doubt that the collateral damage from COVID restrictions is considerable, but it is far less than would have been the case without drastic measures.

The one thing I agree with in Dr. DeMarco’s letter, is that much blame can be laid at the feet of the media, but not for the reason that he gives (“creating and maintaining a constant state of hypervigilance regarding COVID”) but rather because of the confusion and distrust they have fostered in vaccines, face masks,

“At the end of the day, it is public skeptics like Dr. DeMarco who are causing people to disregard the seriousness of the situation...

- RICK COLEMAN

million who have died from COVID-19, not to mention the long haulers who suffer long-term debilitating COVID-19 symptoms.

Furthermore, in decrying the seriousness of COVID-19 compared to cancer, heart disease and other serious ailments, Dr. DeMarco implies that because the death rate for COVID-19 is less than those diseases, that we shouldn’t be so concerned and the world shouldn’t have taken the steps that it has to protect against transmission—what he dismisses as irrational overreaction.

But that wrongly dismisses not only the horrendous death count and that 80 per cent of COVID-19 recoverees continue to suffer serious symptoms for greater than three months, but that COVID-19 patients take up ICU and other hospital beds.

If prudent governments had not taken drastic measures, there would be more seriously sick COVID-19 sufferers filling up hospitals to the exclusion of those suffering from the types of ailments Dr. DeMarco names.

Italy’s COVID-19-full hospitals are a case in point: the immediate need to keep COVID-19 sufferers alive has squeezed out others who

and other safety measures.

At the end of the day, it is public skeptics like Dr. DeMarco who are causing people to disregard the seriousness of the situation and in turn, to disregard the measures designed to limit and eventually eliminate COVID-19 transmission, which, ironically will only prolong the disease, the social and economic restrictions, and the collateral damage he fears.

We need more vigilance, not less. And P.S.: Individuals who have the misfortune of having cancer, hypertension, diabetes or heart disease are at considerably greater risk of death from COVID-19 than those who do not.

Rick Coleman // Whistler ■

FOR THE RECORD In last week’s “Maxed Out” column we erred when describing a study by the CIHI. Pique referred to the deaths in longterm care residents when, in fact, we should have referred to the cases amongst residents. We regret the error. ■

Backcountry Advisory

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Serving sea to sky for 18 years

12 MARCH 25, 2021

AS OF WEDNESDAY MARCH 24 New snow last weekend and in the early part of this week accompanied by strong southerly wind has given the alpine and tree line elevation bands a nice refresh. As we move into the weekend the weather forecast in the Whistler area is calling for a more stable spring weather pattern. You may see a little bit of everything: Cloudy periods, some sunny breaks, and also isolated flurries.

The freezing level is forecast to range from 1,2001,600 metres, so you should continue to see winter conditions at upper elevations.

All that recent new snow will have been blown around in the alpine and tree line by predominantly south and southwest winds, so

be cautious of wind slabs that have formed on northeast and east-facing slopes.

Additionally, cornices continue to grow and become more overhanging when there are snow and wind inputs. When the sun comes out at this time of year, it packs a punch. That means cornices become weaker and are more prone to fail, and steep south-facing slopes start to sluff. So minimize your exposure to steep south-facing terrain and be extra cautious around cornices when the sun is out.

The best snow is likely found on higher elevation north-facing sheltered terrain. Enjoy the weekend and remember to check for the most recent forecast at avalanche.ca.■

CONDITIONS MAY VARY AND CAN CHANGE RAPIDLY Check for the most current conditions before heading out into the backcountry. Daily updates for the areas adjacent to Whistler Blackcomb are available at 604-938-7676, or surf to www.whistlerblackcomb.com/mountaininfo/snow-report#backcountry or go to www.avalanche.ca.

PIQUE N’ YER INTEREST

Jittery Joe I’VE NEVER BEEN a coffee guy. I disliked the taste and didn’t particularly want to acquire it. I’m not generally a fan of putting steaming hot liquids in my mouth. I don’t like wasting money on things I don’t really need—I’d rather save up for bigger things that I also don’t really need. Most importantly, I did not want to rely on coffee to function like a normal person.

BY ANDREW MITCHELL I saw what happened to all of my friends that got hooked on the bitter bean juice.

One minute they were normal plucky teens, the next they were grumpy zombies who couldn’t function until they got their first, second and sometimes third cup of coffee.

It started out as a way to look older and they wound up looking old. It didn’t seem all that appealing when I could get by just fine without it—and I had a surplus of nervous energy to begin with.

My anti-coffee stance continued through university, a time when most casual coffee drinkers get hooked. I always thought it was ridiculous that young people in the prime of their lives needed coffee so much that they’d walk around campus with their stupid

travel mugs carabineered to their Jansport backpacks, dodging into classes in between refills. They drank tankloads of coffee to stay up to finish their essays and cram for exams, then pounded mug after mug through the day, punching their coffee cards at every stop.

I had a friend who was getting a 10th cup free every three days. I couldn’t afford to eat some days and he was blowing $15 a day on coffee.

Weaklings! If I ever needed a pick me up I would just head to a dark, quiet corner of the library and sneak in a quick nap. (Or not so quick. I once took a quick nap on the top floor of the Dalhousie library then set off every alarm after I woke up at 2:30 in the morning and tripped over every piece of furniture in the building trying to find a way out. If you’ve never seen a picture of the Killam Library, Google it—that place was spooky as hell.)

Even today, I still think it’s silly that people will hop in their cars and drive two hours to Whistler so they can walk their paper coffee cups around the village—a certain percentage of which always seem to end up on the side of trails and in the bushes.

And yet, despite all of my years as a staunch anti-coffee advocate, it turns out I didn’t know beans. Coffee isn’t the addictive, magical elixir that people make it out to be.

Well, technically it is addictive and I guess the effects might seem magical if you’re exhausted and/or constipated. But it’s not, by

definition, an elixir—it’s a superfood.

An analysis of 127 different studies on coffee and coffee drinkers found that drinking 16 ounces of coffee a day—two big cups—can reduce your chance of getting cancer by 20 per cent, Type 2 diabetes by 30 per cent, Parkinson’s by 30 per cent and heart disease by five per cent (not huge but I’ll take it). I also have to believe that the laxative properties are also extremely beneficial.

But it’s not, by definition, an elixir—it’s a superfood.

After reading the study (Annual Review of Nutrition) I went from disliking the very idea of coffee to worrying about global bean production and whether it can keep up with the added demand. It took 40-plus-plus years on the planet, but I’ve finally started to drink coffee.

And I’m terrible at it. I put in too much oat milk because I don’t really like the taste.

I still don’t like steaming hot beverages so I generally let it sit around until it’s warm and separated. I can’t tell the difference between different bean varieties, brands, blends,

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roasts or grinds, and I’m not sure I want to.

But I’m drinking it anyway because the health benefits, if real, are worth it. Truth be told, I’m not as spritely in the mornings as I used to be, either, and I’d do almost anything to get back my old nervous energy. Keeping up the Whistler pace isn’t easy.

Every time I pour a cup, I wonder how stupid it is to pick up a new addiction this far along in life.

I’ve tried other health beverages over the years—juicing, drinking four litres of water a day, having a glass of wine with dinner, smoothies, kombucha, kefir, wheat grass—with mixed results. Sometimes I would feel a little bit better, but it was impossible to keep these things up long enough to benefit from any long-term effects. If you ever consumed everything you’ve ever been recommended to eat and drink in a day you would literally explode.

I have high hopes that coffee is something I can keep up because, as mentioned, it’s addictive and I won’t have a choice. I’m only a month into my science experiment, and I already feel like it’s not a choice anymore.

I tried going a morning without it and was yawning by 10 a.m.—not those little yawns either, it was the kind that can pull your 40-plus-plus back out.

I’m not sure where this whole journey will take me. My hands are shaking with anticipation. ■

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13

NEWS WHISTLER

New WSSF aims to showcase Whistler’s elite talent END-OF-SEASON BASH REIMAGINED AS ONLINE FILM FEST AND ART COMPETITION

BY BRADEN DUPUIS HAVING PURCHASED the World Ski and Snowboard Festival (WSSF) in November 2019, Joey Gibbons and the team at Gibbons Whistler had big plans for their first event as sole owner.

Then COVID-19 transformed Whistler into a ghost town in 2020, and the April festival—which coincidentally would have also been the 25th anniversary of WSSF— was wiped from the calendar.

“The festival for me, personally, has got lots of memories [associated with it]—I think a lot of us do here in town,” Gibbons said, adding that in normal years, WSSF typically serves as an end-of-season magnet, pulling everyone home to Whistler for unbeatable spring skiing and a party to match.

“And that’s why I think it’s such an important event, and yeah, we can’t do it like we used to be able to do it, so for this year our team is finding ways to continue to celebrate.”

Due to ongoing public heath orders around the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s WSSF will take place entirely online, with livestreams on three successive Fridays: April 16, 23 and 30 from 6 to 8 p.m.

CROWD PLEASER This year’s World Ski and Snowboard Festival will take place entirely online.

PHOTO BY MITCH WINTON / WSSF

14 MARCH 25, 2021

Longtime local favourite events like the 72-Hour Filmmaker Showdown, the Olympus Pro Photographer Showdown— and even sports events like the Big Air and Saudan Couloir Ski Race Extreme—will take a temporary backseat this year in favour of an event that combines elements of all of them.

The WSSF Rough Cuts Photo and

includes accommodations, gift certificates, and more.

There’s also the Whip Sheet Top Sheet Competition, a partnership with Foon Skis and Prior Snowboards, in which artists can submit original top sheet designs to be voted on by the world. Winners will get a custom board or pair of skis featuring their design, as well as have it available for

“There’s a lot of passionate people behind the scenes who really care about [the festival].”

- JOEY GIBBONS

Video Competition challenges snow sport crews from the Sea to Sky and around the world to create a two-to-five-minute film featuring any footage of skiing, snowboarding and/or snowsports shot in the last 10 years.

A panel of local filmmakers and athletes will serve as judges to select the top 10 local and top five global finalists, before livestream viewers get a chance to select their favourites each week.

Local crews will be competing for a $5,000 cash prize, while the global winner will receive the “Key to WSSF 2022,” which

custom orders on Foon Skis.

The traditional WSSF outdoor concerts have also been reimagined through “Sky Streams,” which will livestream DJ and live music sets from some of Whistler’s most iconic locations (the full lineup will be announced in the coming weeks).

It’s a drastic departure from an event that relies heavily on atmosphere and live crowds—will this new WSSF capture the spirit of the festival?

“It’s hard to say … personally, I feel the spirit has always been [derived from] the people coming together,” Gibbons said. “So

can you have that same thing online?”

Maybe not in the communal, celebratory sense, but there are other aspects of Whistler and the WSSF that translate quite well to the digital format.

Gibbons pointed to the level of talent he’s seen on the mountain this year as an example.

“I’ve never seen so many people hucking backflips off of Air Jordan in my life. The kids these days are just taking things to a whole other level,” he said.

“It’s all happening here, and I guess we’re just hopeful we can celebrate that talent digitally, and people will appreciate it.”

Started in 1995, the WSSF has seen many owners and iterations in its 26-year history, but Gibbons is optimistic that crowds will be cleared to return next year, and that the 2022 edition will be closer to its roots.

“I think we want to bring [some of the old events] back … There’s a lot of passionate people behind the scenes who really care about [the festival],” Gibbons said, adding that both Whistler Blackcomb and the Resort Municipality of Whistler continue to be big supporters of the event (not to mention the dozens of other local sponsors and volunteers).

“That’s what’s so cool about it, I find, is that it doesn’t really matter who you ask,” Gibbons said.

“Everyone seems to be like, ‘Yeah, I’m in.’”

Head to wssf.com for more. n

NEWS WHISTLER

Vail Resorts to cut Epic Pass prices by 20% MEANWHILE, WHISTLER BLACKCOMB UNVEILS PLANS FOR THE REST OF SPRING

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NEXT SEASON’S Whistler Blackcomb (WB) passes will leave a little more money in your pocket, Vail Resorts announced Wednesday, March 24.

The company is reducing the cost of all of its Epic Pass products by 20 per cent for the 2021/22 season.

“The ski industry, our Company and skiers and riders everywhere just navigated the most challenging season we have ever encountered,” said Rob Katz, chairman and chief executive officer of Vail Resorts in a release. “Because of the growth and loyalty of our pass holders, we were able to ensure this season was a success, with full operations across our 34 North American resorts, even amid a pandemic.”

The price reset is part of a drive to have as many skiers and riders as possible choose a pass option ahead of the season and it is hammering down on other pass products available in the market right now.

The Epic Pass—which comes with unlimited access to WB, Park City, and more— will be priced at $1,018, down from $1,273 this season. The Whistler Blackcomb Unlimited Pass will be $1,119, down from $1,399.

Edge Cards, meanwhile, will start at $175 for a two-day card, down from $219; $367 for a five-day Edge Card, down from $459; and $631 for a 10-day Edge Card, a decrease from $789.

The Epic Day Pass will come in at $109.58 for a one-day pass or $93.20 a day for a seven-day pass.

According to the release, these prices were last seen during the 2015/16 season— before Vail Resorts bought WB for $1.4 billion in August of 2016.

“The new prices announced today not only provide value to existing skiers and riders, but we also believe they will contribute to the growth and vitality of our sport as we bring new people and higher engagement into the industry, which we think is imperative,” said Katz.

“We also believe these lower prices will benefit our financial results based on new learnings from the past few years.”

In the release Katz said that the launch of the Epic Day Pass two years ago has highlighted skiers and riders that were not identified as Vail Resorts customers previously. Company results show that when people moved from day tickets to pass products they used the mountains more.

In addition to reducing the cost of accessing the mountains, Epic Pass products provide pass holders other on-mountain discounts—go to Epic Mountain Rewards for more. All 2021/22 pass products will come with Epic Coverage, at no additional cost, which provides refunds for personal

events like job loss, injury or illness, as well as for certain resort closures, including closures due to COVID-19.

Passes for the 2021/22 are on sale now at epicpass.com.

Meanwhile, if you want to ski or ride Whistler Mountain this season, you better head uphill by April 18.

Last week, WB released the details of its spring operations, including the news that Blackcomb Mountain will remain open from April 19 until the end of the season on May 24.

Like in past years, spring hours will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“We’re going to run the Excalibur Gondola [to give] access from the main village, Upper Village, and Base II,” said Jennifer Smith, West Coast corporate communications manager for Vail Resorts.

“The [Blackcomb Day Lots] parking lots will all be open with free parking.”

With spring skiing set to get underway, WB is reminding skiers and riders that there are still Public Health Orders in place. “We really do want to stress for people it’s still very critical that they continue to follow the Public Health Order,” Smith said. “We know there’s a slight change in that we can gather with a consistent group of 10—that’s intended to be your bubble an a few more family members-type thing—while we see the light at the end of the tunnel there, we have all our safety protocols in place— masks and physical distancing on the hill.”

WB is also reminding people that the upcoming 4 p.m. closure is a strict one, for everyone’s safety.

“We become an industrial worksite after hours. It can be extremely dangerous for skiers and riders, but also for our people,” Smith said.

To that end, they have established designated uphill routes for backcountry travellers to avoid any safety issues, she added. (It can be found here: whistlerblackcomb.com/the-mountain/ about-the-mountain/backcountry.aspx.)

“We know people will be out there, so we’ve given them a specific route so we know and that’s how we adapt our industrial worksite,” Smith said.

Meanwhile, Vail Resorts CEO Rob Katz sent out a letter March 19 stating that the company doesn’t plan to have a reservation system next season.

“For anyone worried that the absence of a reservation system will lead to longer lift lines, we have extensive learnings from this season around lift-loading efficiencies and are implementing new strategies to materially reduce wait times,” Katz wrote.

The letter also said Vail Resorts has doubled its staff of customer service representatives since December and plan to quadruple their staff by May. “Our goal is to ensure that we can quickly answer your calls and messages and get you the information you need,” it reads. n

N

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15

Engel & Völkers Whistler

NEWS WHISTLER

More Whistler frontline workers now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine HEALTH AUTHORITIES HAVE BEEN CONTACTING BUSINESSES TO ARRANGE IMMUNIZATION

BY BRANDON BARRETT ADDITIONAL frontline workers in Whistler are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, part of B.C.’s efforts to target highrisk populations and locations.

Intended as a supplement to the agebased vaccines that began being rolled out March 15, the confirmed supply of AstraZeneca/SII vaccine for the coming weeks has allowed health authorities to start immunizing frontline workers, provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said in a March 19 statement. “As more vaccine becomes available, we will be able to expand to even more people on our frontlines.”

Initially, local staff in shared accommodation was targeted, but some frontline workers not living in shared housing are now eligible as well, and health authorities have been in the process of contacting resort businesses to arrange immunization.

“We can confirm that Earls has been approached with the opportunity to get our staff vaccinated as part of the Whistler community blitz,” wrote Earls Whistler GM Kevin Wallace in a March 19 email. “As we await accessibility to the COVID vaccines, we are speaking with our employees about this opportunity and ensuring they have all the relevant information necessary to make this decision for themselves.”

After news emerged earlier this month that some workers in COVID hotspots like Whistler were being immunized ahead of certain high-risk groups, such as first responders, schoolteachers and grocery store employees, many questioned B.C.’s approach.

Then, last week, the government announced that more than 300,000 frontline workers across the province would be eligible for the AstraZeneca/SII vaccine, beginning in April.

“We’ve been pushing for that since early January,” said Rob Farrer, a B.C.-based director with the National Police Federation, the bargaining unit representing approximately 20,000 RCMP members. “We very much welcome the news that they will be added to Phase 2 [of B.C.’s immunization plan], and we’re hoping it will be in the early part of Phase 2 to make the members of our communities as safe as possible.”

In the Sea to Sky, seniors aged 70 and up and Indigenous people aged 55 and up are also now eligible for the latest round of immunization. Mount Currie, however, is

well ahead of the curve, with approximately 850 Lil’wat Nation members having already received their first dose.

“That’s about 75 per cent of people 18 and over,” relayed Lil’wat Nation Chief Administrative Officer Kerry Mehaffey, adding that the early rollout was likely tied to a cluster of COVID-19 cases the Nation had been dealing with over the holidays. “We started getting the doses in February and delivered them in partnership with Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) at our new Lil’wat Health and Healing building.”

As more residents receive the vaccine, Mayor Jack Crompton is urging locals to continue doing their part to protect the wider community.

“We need to remain vigilant,” he said.

“It’s been my hope and expectation that the people vaccinated will be part of our continued effort to respond to COVID-19.

They have to be.”

Age-based vaccines can be arranged by calling 1-877-587-5767. The phone line is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Frontline workers are reminded that health authorities will contact employers directly to arrange immunizations, and calling the age-based booking line will not provide access to the AstraZeneca/SII vaccine program.

“We are working with all of the supply we have available to maximize our protection and we are using every last drop,” said Henry last week. “We also must focus on the individual actions that we need now more than ever to keep each other and our families and communities safe.”

Meanwhile, the health region including Whistler recorded 58 new COVID-19 cases between March 7 and 13, the most recent data at press time provided by the BC Centre for Disease Control.

The transmission rate is up from the week of Feb. 28 to March 6, when 32 new lab-confirmed cases were tallied.

Comprising Whistler, Pemberton, Squamish, Lions Bay and parts of the southern Stl’atl’imx Nation, the Howe Sound health region tallied a total of 1,406 cases between Jan. 1, 2020 and Feb. 28, 2021.

There has been no Whistler-specific case numbers provided since March 4, which VCH had been sending out as the resort contended with an outbreak early in the year. Notably, the health authority does not typically provide numbers in small communities when the caseload falls below a certain threshold, which it says is to help protect medical privacy.

Pique has requested the latest Whistler case numbers from VCH and will update this story online if we hear back. n

#SpringBreakGoals Skiing.

Outdoor playdates.

Family swim timeslots.

Card games.

Geocaching.

Fortnite.

Whatever your #SpringBreakGoals, Make sure COVID-19 isn’t part of them.

Please continue to avoid all indoor gatherings with people not part of your household.

Whistler.ca/covid19

MARCH 25, 2021

17

NEWS WHISTLER

Cheakamus Phase 2 rezoning adopted COUNCIL BRIEFS: COMMUNITY LIFE SURVEY BEGINS ON MARCH 29

BY BRADEN DUPUIS CONSTRUCTION IS SET to begin on the second phase of Cheakamus Crossing after Whistler council adopted a rezoning bylaw for the land on March 16.

The bylaw comes with a series of conditions that must be met, on which Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) staff has worked with applicant the Whistler 2020 Development Corp. (WDC), said planner John Chapman in a presentation to council.

The conditions include: dedication and detailed design of a new park for the neighbourhood; an extension of Mount Fee Road, along with two new bus shelters; registration of environmental protection covenants (restricting development within 30 metres of the Cheakamus River, or within any streamside or wetland areas); securing access to recreation trails in the area; and securing progressive green building commitments for all new developments on the land.

“Staff have worked with the [WDC] to craft agreements to satisfy the zoning adoption conditions,” Chapman said.

“WDC has confirmed [its] consent to these agreements, and this will enable adoption of the bylaw.”

As the Riverside Trail crosses three parcels, “a statutory right-of-way will be established in those locations to ensure ongoing public access and access for maintenance as necessary,” Chapman said, adding that the Ridge Trail, which crosses Parcel E, will get similar treatment.

That said, development of Parcel E is still several years off.

“There is a covenant on this land restricting development until further planning is done, which will include a further environmental review to identify significant natural features, identify any sensitive ecosystem areas, and ensure that a statutory right-of-way will be established for the Ridge Trail, which crosses this parcel,” Chapman said.

As it relates to green building requirements, Chapman noted there is an

BUILD IT Councillor Duane Jackson during a recent walking tour of Cheakamus Crossing. With council’s adoption of a related rezoning bylaw, construction will soon begin on the first of two new employee apartment buildings.

PHOTO BY BRADEN DUPUIS

existing covenant on the lands requiring a connection to the District Energy System (DES) for interior space and domestic hot water heating.

“We crafted a [new] covenant that provides options moving into the future to maximize building energy and efficiency performance, and balance the costs as well,” he said.

Multi-family buildings in Cheakamus Phase 2 will utilize the DES for hot water

SEE PAGE 20

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heating, but will have the option to opt for alternative energy sources so long as they build to a higher energy standard than is required in the building bylaw, Chapman said.

“For the smaller Part 9 or singlefamily and duplex buildings, we expect that they will elect to forego connection to the DES due to inefficiencies, and in

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NEWS WHISTLER << FROM PAGE 18 exchange they would again be required to build to that higher energy performance standard,” he said.

“This is a flexible, adaptable scheme to ensure that we’re getting the best performing buildings through this multiphase, multi-year build out.”

In response to a question from Councillor John Grills about the total capacity of the DES, general manager of infrastructure James Hallisey noted a recent study showed the system has enough capacity for Phase 2, excluding Parcel D2, which is at a higher elevation.

“There is some assumptions about those buildings being built to a higher energy standard than what’s been built in the past, but there is also the ability to expand our heat recovery out of the wastewater, to some extent,” Hallisey said.

“There is piping and a space allocated at the wastewater treatment plant for another heat exchanger to extract more heat from the wastewater if we need to do that.”

Despite the project’s compressed timeline to date, “I think everyone’s arrived at a good solution,” said Coun. Duane Jackson.

“I think we’ve got more work to do, particularly on the energy side, and I think that James [Hallisey] and his engineering team are working on the cost/benefit analysis, and understanding sort of best practices going forward,” Jackson said.

20 MARCH 25, 2021

“And certainly WDC is investing in that knowledge so that they can inform council on future projects, how best we can meet our energy needs and still maintain affordable housing.”

For Mayor Jack Crompton, walking

“This, for me, is a very proud vote that we will cast here.”

- JACK CROMPTON

around the site and seeing it start to come together—and considering the contributions of all the Whistlerites to date—is a proud moment.

“This, for me, is a very proud vote that we will cast here,” Crompton said.

“It moves us in a very positive direction, and I’m grateful to everyone that’s had a part.”

COMMUNITY LIFE SURVEY BEGINS MARCH 29 The RMOW is launching its annual Community Life Survey (CLS), and giving respondents the chance to sign up for the

online survey for the first time.

From March 29 to April 19, a random phone survey will canvass 300 permanent residents and 200 part-time residents, followed by an online survey for residents from April 24 to May 10.

Residents can register to have the survey sent straight to their email inbox until April 19.

“I encourage you to participate if you’re called for the phone survey. It takes approximately 15 minutes and your responses will help to inform municipal decision-making. This is particularly important as we plan for COVID-19 community recovery in the coming months,” said Mayor Jack Crompton, in a release.

“Alternatively, you can have your say by signing up for the online survey, which we’ll email to you. We’re excited to offer this convenient option to help ensure that we receive a wide range of responses from all demographics in the community.”

Results from the CLS help the RMOW and council track service performance and understand community priorities and needs, as well as help guide policy development at municipal hall.

This year’s results will also inform Whistler’s post-COVID-19 recovery strategy.

Read more about the RMOW’s community monitoring efforts at whistler. ca/municipal-gov/community-monitoring.

Register for the online survey at whistler.ca/survey.

WHISTLER WAY REZONING ENDORSED Council also endorsed a rezoning for the lands at 4005 Whistler Way at its March 16 meeting.

The land currently holds the Aava hotel and an unused restaurant building, said planner Clancy Sloan in a presentation to council.

The rezoning seeks to add density to allow additional staff and operational amenities on the second floor of the unused restaurant building.

“The proposal would allow level two to be developed to provide 330 square metres of gross floor area for change rooms, showers, personal storage, a mealpackaging area, and communal staff and training areas,” Sloan said.

“The proposed changes only include addition to the staff and restaurant operational amenities. They do not increase the seating capacity of the building. Staff can ensure that any bylaw prepared for this rezoning is worded to limit the use of the additional GFA.” With council’s endorsement, staff will prepare the necessary zoning amendment bylaw. A public hearing will follow.

“This is a large investment to [upgrade] a building that has underperformed really since it was built,” said Coun.

John Grills. “It will be nice to see this structure operating the way it was built to be operated.” n

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21

NEWS WHISTLER

Plant-based bakery BReD named as finalist at Small Business BC Awards ED AND NATASHA TATTON ONE OF FIVE FINALISTS IN BEST YOUTH ENTREPRENEUR CATEGORY

BY BRANDON BARRETT ED AND NATASHA TATTON , the husband-and-wife team behind the organic, plant-based Creekside bakery BReD, are used to being told no. In fact, you could say they thrive off the naysayers.

When they opened their shop in Whistler’s original ski village, “there was actually quite a backlash from locals saying, ‘Why are you opening in Creekside? No one goes to Creekside. Nothing works in Creekside. All the food and beverage comes and goes,’ and it was just negative, negative, negative,” Natasha recalled. “We just thought, ‘Yeah, well, we’ll show you.’”

Now, almost two years to the day from their opening, and the Tattons have done well to prove the doubters wrong— and their success hasn’t gone unnoticed.

This week, the Small Business BC Awards announced the couple as one of five finalists in the Best Youth Entrepreneur category, a culmination of a fan vote that got them into the top 10, before a panel of judges narrowed the nominees down to a shortlist.

22 MARCH 25, 2021

After a tumultuous year operating through a pandemic, the honour comes with added significance.

“We’re all about taking it back to the simple, traditional ways of making bread and bringing community together. You would think that would be difficult to do because we’ve all been locked up in our homes for the past year, but I feel like the bread shop has been part of anyone’s routine and people have said it’s been really great for their mental health, being able to come down to the bread shop once a week, seeing familiar faces, seeing people outside in the line,” Natasha said. “We still have created, in a weird way, a sense of community.”

For two admitted “non-techy” people, the Tattons were able to harness social media in new ways throughout the pandemic, regularly posting video baking tutorials and amassing close to 55,000 Instagram followers.

They also pivoted to an online preordering system within 24 hours of Whistler Blackcomb closing down in March 2020, even before Victoria had released health and safety plans for the food-service industry.

Natasha took the lockdown opportunity

to bolster her training, enrolling in a fourmonth sustainability and marketing course through Cambridge University’s Institute for Sustainability Leadership.

It’s another testament to the couple’s

“We still have created, in a weird way, a sense of community.”

- NATASHA TATTON

commitment to their ideals. Both vegans, they have considered every detail of their operation, from the natural ingredients they source, to the sustainable packaging they use, and even the reclaimed maple wood that dons the shop’s interior. And when health protocols threw a wrench in those plans by banning the use of reusable mugs in favour of single-use cups, the Tattons signed up for an initiative that plants a tree for every coffee sold.

Ed said it’s the couple’s passion that

has turned their business into a success.

“We put everything into it,” he said. “We sold our house in the U.K. and borrowed huge amounts of money, so this is everything to us. If this fails, it will affect us for the rest of our lives, so I think that’s where the drive comes from. We haven’t been gifted it from family or inherited anything or come from any sort of wealth.

It’s just the two of us, really.”

With dreams of one day opening a second location in Vancouver, the Tattons are once again hearing a common refrain, one that they will use to fuel them forward.

“When we speak to other people in the industry, they sort of warn us off of Vancouver because there’s lots of competition,” Natasha said. “You know what? That excites me, because to me, that’s the same negativity we got about opening in Creekside.”

Next the finalists will be required to present their business to a panel of judges on why they think it should win. The winners will be announced during a three-day virtual gala from May 4 to 6.

Learn more at smallbusinessbc.ca/ awards/gala.n

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MARCH 25, 2021

23

NEWS WHISTLER

Police find loaded handgun during traffic stop POLICE BRIEFS: TAXI DRIVER ASSAULTED; BUS RIDER SMASHES GLASS

BY BRANDON BARRETT WHISTLER

POLICE

ARRESTED

a man with a history of offences after finding a loaded handgun during a traffic stop on Saturday, March 20, and remain on the lookout for another suspect who managed to flee authorities, according to a release.

At approximately 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Whistler RCMP received a report of a traffic complaint from Squamish of two vehicles speeding northbound and driving erratically on Highway 99.

Officers conducted a traffic stop of one of the vehicles, a black Mercedes Benz CLS55 with Ontario plates, just south of Spring Creek Drive. Police soon learned that the two male occupants had “a history of violent offences, including firearm offences,” the release said.

While searching the suspects, police said they found a loaded handgun in a Gucci “manpurse.” The firearm will be sent in for further forensic analysis, police added.

After being pat down, the vehicle’s passenger then reportedly fled police, running across Highway 99, jumping a concrete barrier and venturing down an embankment.

Despite setting up a perimeter, which included assistance from a canine unit, police,

who drew their weapons in the search, said they were unable to locate the suspect “but can confirm that the man was not in possession of a weapon when he fled from police.” Police also noted the suspect at large has been identified and the investigation is ongoing.

The other suspect, the driver of the vehicle, was arrested on various firearms offences and later released with a future court date, police said. Both men are being investigated for possible firearm offences, police said in a follow-up interview.

“Whistler RCMP would like to thank the Whistler [residents] in the Function Junction area for their [patience] during the event,” the release went on.

Police said they did not observe the second vehicle, a black BMW X5 with B.C. plates, that was reportedly speeding and driving erratically.

Anyone with relevant information on the incident is asked to contact the Whistler RCMP at 604 932-3044, or Sea to Sky Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 to remain anonymous.

At approximately 6 p.m. on March 3, police said the taxi driver picked up a man who requested to go to a nearby bank in order to take out money for the cab fare. After the suspect failed to get the necessary cash, the driver refused him any further service.

At this point, police said the man exited the cab as the driver attempted to close the car door to prevent him from re-entering.

The suspect then reportedly punched the driver in the head and ribs before fleeing the scene.

Whistler police continue to investigate the incident.

bus in the hopes of transferring to another bus to the village. After doubling back into Alpine, the driver returned to the stop at Meadow Park Sports Centre, where the man could be seen attempting to board another bus, before smashing the glass around the door.

The driver was not injured in the incident, police said.

The suspect was arrested for mischief and released on a promise to appear in court at a later date.

MAN ARRESTED AFTER SPRAYING FIRE EXTINGUISHER IN HOTEL

TRANSIT RIDER SMASHES GLASS DOOR ATTEMPTING TO BOARD WHISTLER BUS

A man was arrested earlier this month after he reportedly sprayed a fire extinguisher inside a village hotel, police said.

At approximately 6 p.m. on March 13, Mounties responded to a mischief complaint in the 4000 block of Whistler Way. Investigators soon learned that the man, who was reportedly intoxicated at the time, had obtained the fire extinguisher and “deployed it while walking through the hotel lobby,” police said.

The man was held in custody on mischief charges and released with a court date. n

A man was arrested earlier this month after he reportedly shattered the glass of a Whistler Transit bus, police said.

At 10 a.m. on March 12, police responded to a disturbance call in the 8600 block of Highway 99. Investigators said the man had broken the glass while attempting to board the bus.

A passenger on the southbound bus told Pique the man grew increasingly irritated after the driver had missed a loop into Alpine. The man reportedly exited the

TAXI DRIVER REPORTEDLY ASSAULTED A Whistler taxi driver was reportedly assaulted by a passenger who failed to pay his fare earlier this month, police said in a release.

Resort Municipality of Whistler

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The RMOW is committed to mitigating the risk of wildfire in the Whistler Valley. Fuel thinning work will take place on 14.8 hectares on Nesters Hill and 11.8 hectares above Taluswood. The work is scheduled to begin in April as snowpack allows, and continue through the summer with completion in autumn 2021. All trails on Nesters Hill (Cut Yer Bars system) will be closed for the duration of the project. Please obey all signs and staff for your safety.

Nesters Hill Map

Talu sw o o d TU -01

G ro ss Tre atm e n t ANree atd o w n A re a (hNa) e t Tre atm e n t A re a (hTre a) atm e n t Ty p e s 11.6 0.6 11.0 TF B , S F R , H TR , P , C / P

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MARCH 25, 2021

25

NEWS PEMBERTON & THE VALLEY

VOP to ask for tourism support, change to childcare funding cap COUNCIL BRIEFS: PEMBERTON FIRE DEPARTMENT ASKS FOR FIRESMART SUPPORT AND APPROVAL FOR HELPING OUTSIDE BOUNDARIES

BY ALYSSA NOEL VILLAGE OF PEMBERTON council has submitted a second and third resolution for consideration at the Lower Mainland Local Government Association Meeting in May. If endorsed at that meeting, the resolutions will go on to be discussed at the Union of BC Municipalities meeting in September. One submission asks for support for local governments to establish sustainable tourism policies and programs, ensuring visitors use the land and natural resources in a way that protects the environment. It comes in the wake of COVID-19 travel restrictions encouraging domestic travel.

Mayor Mike Richman suggested adding language to include areas under provincial jurisdiction as well—like forest service roads, recreation sites and, highways.

“My only question to council would be … is it our ask to provide funding to assist local governments specifically in this endeavour?” he asked during the council meeting on Tuesday, March 16. “Certainly having funds for local government to

TOURISM BOOST Pemberton council voted to submit two new resolutions to the Lower Mainland Local Government Association.

FILE PHOTO

26 MARCH 25, 2021

manage the onslaught of visitors is a big part of what we’re talking about here. But I was just wondering if there was also funding for the province’s own departments.”

In the end, council voted to submit the resolution with the addition for provincial funding.

Council also voted to submit a resolution co-sponsored by the District of Squamish regarding the cap for the Childcare BC New Spaces Fund.

It argues that many rural areas face higher-than-average construction prices and should be able to submit proposals that exceed the current cap of $40,000 per space.

PEMBERTON FIRE DEPARTMENT TO APPLY FOR FIRESMART GRANT Council voted to support the Pemberton Fire Rescue Department’s application for a $150,000 grant from the UBCM under its community resilience investment program for the Village of Pemberton FireSmart program.

The program “is a provincial program intended to reduce the risk of wildfire to communities in B.C. through community funding support and priority field management activities and funding requests for FireSmart activities,” Fire Chief Robert Grossman told council.

If the department receives the grant, it will be used to create two positions: a

FireSmart program coordinator and a worker to develop a comprehensive community-based FireSmart program. The positions would be temporary, one-year jobs set to tentatively start in August 2021.

SUPPORT FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT TO RESPOND OUTSIDE BOUNDARIES Pemberton Fire Rescue has the support of council to continue responding to calls outside of its Squamish-Lillooet Regional District Electoral Area C jurisdiction.

Currently, the department responds to the entire SLRD Area C covering approximately 5,570 square-kilometres.

That includes Highway 99 North/ Duffey Lake Road—to the boat launch—and to Blowdown Creek. Past that is Lillooet Road Rescue jurisdiction, Grossman said.

“When Pemberton Fire Rescue travels outside of Area C for a motor vehicle accident, we contact EMBC, Emergency Management British Columbia, and a task number is requested to ensure cost recovery outside our area is done,” Grossman said.

While in the past, the department simply submitted applications for this, there have been changes to the process this year, he added. “Now they require that to be recognized as a Road Rescue Service provider outside of its jurisdiction, permission from

council must be granted to do so,” he said.

To that end, he requested council support the continued service to the Duffey Lake boat launch and Blowdown Creek, as well as to areas when there is a “known entrapment” on the Hurley River Forest Service Road past the 16 km boundary, the Pemberton Forest Road near the Highline, and the In-SHUCK-ch Forest Service Road past the 25 km mark.

“It’s all cost recovery, it’s just a matter of EMBC requesting this resolution,” Grossman said.

Council voted to support the service.

CLIMATE ACTION INFO SESSION SET The VOP has added a climate action public information session to its calendar. Set for April 8 from 6 to 7:15 p.m., Village staff and representatives from the Community Energy Association will lead a conversation about how to tackle climate change in the community.

Participants will learn how they can help and have a say in developing a local Community Climate Action Plan.

After the session, the Village will release a related online survey.

For more information, or to sign up, visit pemberton.ca/government/news/ post/let-s-talk-climate-action-publicinformation-session. n

Ques�ons?

We’re Listening

604.894.6135

admin@ pemberton.ca

pemberton.ca

Call for Board of Variance Member The Village of Pemberton is seeking a volunteer for the Board of Variance

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PEMBERTON

Board of Variance: Three (3) Year Term 2021/2022/2023 One (1) seat vacancy.

The Board of Variance is an independent body that considers variances to Village of Pemberton Zoning Bylaw 832, 2018. The Board has the authority to grant variances in situa�ons where compliance with the Zoning Bylaw would cause undue hardship.

For applica�on forms and details, please visit pemberton.ca or contact Village of Pemberton Development Services by email at developmentservices@pemberton.ca.

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This large family home currently has 5 bedrooms, a large family room and office which could easily be reconfigured to accommodate a self-contained revenue suite. A large garage and 3-vehicle carport provide ample additional space!

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604 894 5166 WHISTLERREALESTATE.CA MARCH 25, 2021

27

Education Feature

How to help kids grapple with the ongoing pandemic WITH A QUARTER OF THE SCHOOL YEAR LEFT, EXPERTS WEIGH IN WITH TIPS TO SUPPORT SEA-TO-SKY YOUTH

By Alyssa Noel FOR WHISTLER Secondary School (WSS) Grade 12 student Israel De Real, contributing in person to the spring play was a bright spot in his school calendar.

Having already earned all the credits he needs to finish school, serving as promotions manager for Objection! Disorder in the Court was a social connection.

“We’ve all been impacted in some way by this pandemic—whether it was through school, or isolation or family loss and other tragedies,” he said. “So I found solace in the fact that we were able to act as if everything was normal …

Although this is my only course, I feel a sense of purpose, a sense of normalcy. I feel invited. I feel welcomed every time I come into this space and I reciprocate that to the others.”

While the vaccine rollout is underway, bringing with it a more optimistic outlook on the future, Sea to Sky students still face the last quarter of their school year with ongoing COVID-19 restrictions.

To that end, those in-person connections—like the WSS school play— continue to mean a lot to kids. But experts say there are steps parents can take to help ensure mental wellbeing too.

Tanya Broesch, an associate professor in the Department of Psychology at Simon Fraser University and a developmental psychologist, said one important element of structure parents can control is routine.

“We know routines are really important,” she said. “That was one thing I encouraged parents to do throughout the pandemic is create a routine with flexibility. Let the kids guide it and choose, ‘This is going to be math hour. How will we do our math hour?’

Humans, while we’re social creatures, we’re also completely dependent on our routines.”

One other simple suggestion that can extend beyond the pandemic: “Spend some time every day enjoying something with your kids.”

“When kids come home from school, it’s not as important to have the perfect meal or a perfectly clean house—put those things aside if you can and spend 15 minutes or more just enjoying them and what they’re doing,” Broesch said. “Play a game, play a video game, go for a walk. Even if you’re stressed, if kids see you’re enjoying their presence, that’s really important.”

For Mary MacDonald—who might be best known in Whistler as a

local poet and writer, but also works as a paediatric psychologist—the fear kids are feeling around the pandemic isn’t entirely unprecedented.

“I was talking to someone the other day about what was happening when we were kids that we still remember,” she said. “What was happening was the Cold War. My parents and their friends were talking about nuclear war all the time. I was four or five and my parents were very involved in anti-nuclear protests.

I was one kid of seven and [we asked], “Are we going to die tomorrow, mom?”

A similar fear of death has pervaded her Zoom sessions with young patients in the last year as well.

“Kids were asking me, ‘Are my parents going to die?’ That’s pretty impactful for a child … That was huge for me in the beginning, just to hear every one of them say it,” she said.

The struggle, of course, is how to be reassuring when you can’t say with certainty that everything will be OK, she added.

“In an interesting kind of way, what we’re teaching children is how to live with uncertainty,” MacDonald said. “We live with uncertainty all the time anyway.

We often just don’t acknowledge it. We’re always between what was and what will be.”

Part of that is encouraging kids to keep up social connections outside of school in a new, safe way.

“It’s amazing how many times in my day I have to say to a kid, ‘Who are you talking to?’

‘Who have you seen?’ A lot of kids are in school part time and part time on Zoom. It’s less of an issue than it was [at the beginning], and it may be again in the summer when they’re not in school. You could actually go for a walk with your friends. You could go for a run with a friend. You don’t have to stay home. [Some kids] have become— maybe it’s un-Whistler like—so cautious. We’re not trying to raise a generation of cautious kids who are under functioning.”

To that end, MacDonald encourages getting out in nature, exploring mindfulness, and deep breathing as important techniques.

“You have to, as parents, set routines, set time for activities, set limits for social media,” she said. “Sometimes you have to push kids to set time with their friends. One upside of the pandemic is more time as a family, more time outdoors.” ■

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SCIENCE MATTERS

Healthy food systems for a healthy planet WE ALL HAVE TO EAT. But the ways in which we grow, harvest, process, transport, prepare and consume food are profoundly affecting everything on the planet, from climate to biodiversity to water.

A comprehensive new study finds food systems are responsible for about one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions. The study in Nature Food, by researchers from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, includes a database that examines every stage of the global food chain from 1990 to 2015 by sector, greenhouse gas and country.

BY DAVID SUZUKI Most of the emissions, 71 per cent, come from agriculture and associated land use and land use change, including about 39 per cent from early stages—agriculture, aquaculture, fishing and fertilizer use — and one-third from agricultural land use and change, mainly due to carbon loss from deforestation and soil degradation, including peatland destruction.

The rest are from the supply chain: “Retail, transport, consumption, fuel production, waste management, industrial processes and packaging.” In industrialized countries, these downstream sectors make up a larger average share.

Agriculture also takes up half the world’s habitable land. Livestock accounts for 77 per cent of that (including land for growing feed) while producing only 18 per cent of the world’s calories and 37 per cent of total protein. That continues to increase with human population growth: global food production increased 40 per cent between 1990 and 2015. So shifting to more plant-based diets can save habitat and natural spaces while reducing emissions.

Although the study shows the percentage of total emissions from food systems declined, that’s only because emissions from other sources—mostly burning oil, gas and coal for energy—increased.

The research has a silver lining.

Sonja Vermeulen, program director at the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research, told Carbon Brief that it shows we can feed the world’s eight billion people if we address the problems.

“It is theoretically possible, even with population growth, for everyone in the world to eat a healthy and culturally appropriate diet without transgressing planetary boundaries for carbon, biodiversity, nitrogen, phosphorus and water,” she said. “But that will take a lot of effort both technically and politically.”

(Vermeulen wasn’t involved in the study.)

She noted resolving the climate crisis means addressing emissions not just from agriculture (which includes shifting to

more plant-based diets) but also from energy and transport.

Although a major share of transport and energy emissions are carbon dioxide from burning coal, oil and gas, food systems are more complex. CO2 makes up only half of food-related emissions. Methane makes up 35 per cent—mainly from farming, livestock and rice production and waste treatment. Methane is a much more potent greenhouse gas than CO2, but it remains in the atmosphere for a shorter time, so reducing these emissions can have rapid effects.

Interestingly, packaging creates more emissions than “food miles”—5.4 compared to 4.8 per cent.

The study also found the top six economies are responsible for 51 per cent of global food system emissions: China (13.5 per cent), Indonesia (8.8 per cent), the United States (8.2 per cent), Brazil (7.4 per cent), the European Union (6.7 per cent) and India (6.3 per cent).

The research also “highlights how global food systems are becoming more energy intensive, reflecting trends in the retail, packaging, transport and processing sectors, whose emissions are growing rapidly in some developing countries,” according to the FAO. Potent fluorinated greenhouse gases, used in refrigeration and other industrial applications, are rapidly increasing in industrialized countries.

This database helps identify the problems and their sources—a major step toward solving them. A wide range of other research points to solutions.

Farming in less disruptive ways is key. That can be accomplished through

We have many opportunities to resolve the climate crisis. Food systems are a big part of the puzzle. restorative agriculture to produce food in ways that don’t deplete soils and destroy carbon sinks, and shifting away from diets that rely heavily on animals like cattle and sheep, which require a lot of land and water and produce high methane emissions.

(Plant-centred diets are also healthier.)

Reducing emissions related to packaging, transport, storage and processing is also important, as is cutting food waste.

We have many opportunities to resolve the climate crisis. Food systems are a big part of the puzzle. We need to start making changes now!

David Suzuki is a scientist, broadcaster, author and co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Senior Writer and Editor Ian Hanington. ■

RANGE ROVER

An eco-bio-focused recovery?

LAST APRIL, as the COVID-19 pandemic was accelerating into the juggernaut that has pinned us down for over a year, an article appeared in Time magazine bluntly titled: “Want to stop the next pandemic?

Start protecting Wildlife Habitats.”

It was a direct reference to a wellestablished chain: consumer demand g deforestation g loss of wildlife

BY LESLIE ANTHONY habitatg greater human contact with animal disease reservoirsg zoonotic transferg epidemic. We’ve seen many such scenarios in recent decades, from regional outbreaks of Ebola, SARS and MERS, to the global march of HIV, Swine Flu and Zika, so our current predicament comes as no surprise.

Seismic as the loss of lives and economic interruption have been, however, the pandemic is but one symptom of overarching human ecological dysfunction.

Coupled with the effects of climate change on display daily—floods, wildfires, glacial retreat, ocean acidification, landscape collapse—it should be clear that human enterprise is in a state of meltdown. At the rate we’re consuming nature’s goods and services, ecosystems simply cannot

CHAIN REACTIONS Recovery plans that focus on a transition to biodiversity-friendly economies are bound to create living conditions with less risk.

GETTYIMAGES.CA

keep up. Globally, the average level of consumption already far exceeds Earth’s long-term carrying capacity, and estimates show that we’d need five Planet Earths to support the world’s current population— with no additional growth—at the average living standard enjoyed in Canada. Put like this, our path is clearly unsustainable.

Fortunately, this is being acknowledged in post-pandemic recovery conversations.

Given the dependence of so many sectors of society on nature and ecosystems, recovery plans that focus on a transition to biodiversity-friendly economies are bound to create living conditions with less risk, more jobs and better livelihoods. It’s the thinking behind sloganeering like Build Back Better, The Great Reset, and Green New Deal currently echoing to various degrees of acceptance (most people) and rejection (conservatives) through the corridors of power. Unsurprisingly, according to a January 2020 World Wildlife Fund (WWF) report, we’re already paying big-time for biodiversity loss, and it will total a US$10trillion hit to the world economy by 2050 under a “business-as-usual” scenario. It follows that spending far less to reverse this trend would be a sound investment; indeed, the study calculates a US$490billion annual net gain in GDP under a “global conservation” scenario.

In response to Global Convention on Biodiversity targets set in 2010, federal, provincial and territorial governments collaborated on 2020 Biodiversity Goals and Targets for Canada. The publication reflects both Canadian priorities and ways to aid the global effort (Canada, for example, holds a quarter of the world’s

wetlands, which are important not just for their resident fauna, but also species that migrate through them). Canada’s 19 targets support four goals: A) better landuse planning and management; B) more environmentally sustainable management across the economy; C) improvements to available information concerning “people benefits” of nature; and, D) increased general awareness of biodiversity and participation in conservation.

The ideas are trickling down (the RMOW is currently pursuing some) and progress is being made on some fronts, though not so much on others. Taking B.C. as an example of biodiversity good news/bad news, finally setting aside critical habitat (albeit decades late) for the highly endangered Spotted Owl, instituting greater protections for some wild salmon stocks, creating a national park in the south Similkameen, and supporting Southern Resident Killer Whales hardly makes up for the continued logging of old growth, perpetuation of disease-dealing salmon farms, threatened caribou herds, and lack of endangered species legislation. These cavalier odes to biodiversity protection are barriers to the kind of COVID recovery many of us would like to see.

This past spring, an online Global Biodiversity Festival convened some 65 live virtual events with scientists, explorers, conservationists and policymakers from 20 countries. Most banged the drum of more protections, more money, more understanding of biodiversity’s role in our lives, but Marco Lambertini, director general of WWF, best summed the actions needed: Stabilizing climate and biodiversity loss in order to live in more harmony with nature should be humanity’s No. 1 priority. This, he

averred, requires a sea-change in thinking: producing more responsibly, consuming more wisely, building a green economy with subsidies and investment in more sustainable production of food, energy and goods. With $44 trillion of economic value—equivalent to half the world’s GDP—dependent on nature, according to a report by the World Economic Forum, Lambertini foresees a cultural revolution that puts “the idea that nature is not just beautiful, but indispensable” at the centre of planning. “We need a New Deal for Nature and People—a ‘Paris moment’ for nature if you will,” he said.

Whatever paths are trodden, scientists agree there’s only one way forward: a more carbon neutral and nature-positive world to stop the loss and begin recovering. It will require participation of not just governments, but each of Earth’s 7 billion people. And herein lies an opportunity for Canada: the pandemic-induced will to improve on protecting biodiversity in tandem with other similarly motivated countries. If the effort goes global, it’s bound to reduce the probability of similarly severe outbreaks.

Given current political structures and economy über alles orthodoxy, however, as we’ve seen with both the current climate emergency and pandemic, even direct threats to human existence offer only fleeting and fractious calls to collective action. While I’m not holding my breath that things will improve—I’m desperately hoping to be proven wrong.

Leslie Anthony is a science/environment writer and author who holds a doctorate in connecting the dots. ■

MARCH 25, 2021

35

FEATURE STORY

36 MARCH 25, 2021

FEATURE STORY

A Whistler woman’s story of love and pregnancy loss

By Jessie Morden IN 2017, I FELL IN LOVE. I felt I had found the yin to my yang. A year later, we realized we both wanted children and there was no time like the present to start trying. It never occurred to me that I could have any fertility issues because my entire life I have been programmed to think that women who have unprotected sex get pregnant instantly and it’s as easy as that. So we started on the road towards parenthood, hopeful and excited.

In March 2019, I was getting ready for a trip to Denver to visit my pushed my baggage cart. I finally saw him and collapsed. I sister when I realized I was late. I took a test and was shocked to just wanted to go home. discover I was pregnant. After almost a year of trying, we were Once back home, the wave of anxiety hit me like a ton of overjoyed that luck had finally come our way. Even though our bricks. The road to recovery was not going to be an easy one I doctor had advised us it could take a year for the average couple couldn’t help but think of how much I had failed myself, my to become pregnant, it still felt like ages. fiancé and the baby I had been growing. After almost a year The next day I flew to Denver to spend a week with my of trying, I was repaid with heartache. It didn’t seem fair, but sister. The trip was beautiful and I was especially happy with I wasn’t going to let it deter me from my goal of motherhood. the thought of the tiny life growing inside me. Every move I Throughout this time, many people offered me their made, every decision I faced, I now felt like I was making it condolences, deciding it was a good time to give me their all for the person I was creating. I finally had those butterflies “advice.” that my friends who have had children talked about.

“Just relax and it will happen for you,” they’d say. Or The night before I was supposed to fly back to Canada, I comments about how they “just had to think about getting started to have extreme pain in my abdomen. We made the pregnant and it happened,” not knowing that every word was decision to go to the hospital late that night. Shortly after we like a dagger in my heart. arrived, I was given the news that I had an ectopic pregnancy.

While my body recovered, my fiancé and I decided to This is where the embryo starts to develop in the fallopian get married, and on Sept. 5, 2019, we tied the knot. Shortly tube. Ectopic pregnancies are excruciatingly painful and after, we decided it was time to put our efforts into trying can be fatal. This didn’t feel real, I felt like I was having an for a baby again. out-of-body experience. I remember hearing about ectopic I had done some research, talked to my doctors and made pregnancies through friends, but I thought the chances of the decision to try in vitro fertilization (IVF), knowing it would it happening to me were very low. I thought it all must be a not be an easy journey with only one fallopian tube and the horrible dream I would wake up from it. looming fear of another ectopic pregnancy weighing on me.

I spent the night in the hospital with my sister by my side IVF involves taking the woman’s eggs, combining them and, on April 7, I had surgery to have my left fallopian tube with the sperm in a petri dish to make an embryo, and removed. I was devastated but glad I had my sister, my best transferring it into the woman’s uterus. Easy, right? No. In friend, there with me. order to maximize the amount of eggs, you have to inject The next day, I was cleared by the doctor to fly back to yourself with hormones every single day, in my case, three Canada. Since my fiancé couldn’t make it, I had made the times a day to start, then four times towards the end, for trip alone. My sister and I said a very tearful goodbye and 10 days straight. It’s also very expensive and there are no I was put in a wheelchair to be carted away. I was allowed guarantees it will work. on the plane before the other passengers, and after moving They then “harvest” you and get out as many eggs as from one wheelchair to another, the bandages on my possible. I won’t go into the details but I am sure you can stomach became exposed. I remember seeing the pity in imagine how uncomfortable that is. The recovery is no some of the passengers’ eyes. cakewalk either.

While sitting on the plane, trying to get comfortable, I The spike in hormones afterwards makes you feel like could overhear the flight attendant talking about me. It you’re going crazy and it’s worsened by the feeling that made me feel so worthless, that I could just be the subject of something that comes so easy to most women is such a someone’s gossip without any consideration for my feelings. I struggle for you. Why me? Why had my body chosen to fail had just experienced this major loss and I was on display for me? Aren’t women made to bear children? At least that’s the world to see, bloody bandages and all. what we are taught from a young age and I couldn’t help but After landing in Vancouver, I was trying to get off the feel this was a lie society has been feeding us all these years. plane when the flight attendant asked me what happened, Why was it such a struggle for me but my best friend, same so I told her. “I knew it,” she responded, like she had just age, same everything essentially, could get pregnant the first won a bet with the other stewards. At this point, I felt utterly time she tried? I wanted to feel happy for these milestones my defeated. I just wanted to make it to the end of the gate so friends were going through but here I was, stabbing myself I could see my fiancé and feel safe. They put me in the cart four times a day to get in the running. I found myself falling and off we went. They helped me collect my bags but there deeper into this pit of sorrow and self-pity. But I knew I would were no wheelchairs available, so I hobbled out of baggage keep going, that I wouldn’t let this unexplained infertility get claim into a sea of new people to stare and judge me while I the best of me.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

MARCH 25, 2021

37

FEATURE STORY Five days later, I was told that I had 16 healthy embryos ready for transfer. I decided to go with a fresh transfer (you can choose to freeze the embryos for a month to maximize your chances of “latching”) as my husband and I were ready to become parents and the doctors told us, we had a very good chance it would work.

I was supposed to wait the two weeks for a blood test, but I cheated and took a test (or five) as soon as I could. I was pregnant! I went to all the appointments and did all the scans.

I had a healthy little boy growing away.

I was on Cloud 9 and even the pandemic could not interrupt our joy. I bought the stroller, the car seat, accepted gifts from friends, and started to think about the nursery. I came into the second trimester with confidence and hope for the future.

Towards the end of May, my husband and I went up to the cottage for a beautiful weekend. The night we got there, I noticed I had some bleeding. Of course, I freaked out. I called the emergency OBGYN and he told me that this can be normal and if it wasn’t a lot of bleeding, then I should be OK. Some of the women at my cottage told me they had similar situations when they went through their pregnancy.

This put me at ease and I relaxed. The bleeding subsided.

Then, on Sunday night, I woke with more bleeding and this time it was worse. I called the emergency nurse and she said to go first thing to the emergency for an ultrasound. At 8 a.m. when the emergency opened, my husband and I were first in line. The nurse came in with the Doppler and tried to find the heartbeat. No luck. She reassured me that the baby could be in a position where I wouldn’t be able to hear it.

When I went for the ultrasound, my husband and I were in this dark little room and I couldn’t see the screen. It felt like an eternity while I waited for the tech to tell us everything was fine and the bleeding was normal. That moment never came.

“I’m sorry,” the tech said. Those are the only words I remember. I screamed, I cried, I felt like a part of me was dying because, essentially, it did. My husband held me and we cried for the next few hours while the doctors told us what we had to do next. My best friends tried calling and I couldn’t bring myself to answer. I just wanted to crawl into a hole and shut out the world. This had to be a nightmare, I thought. Nothing felt real. I can’t find the words to express such a horrific pain. As I sit here and write this, my tears covering the keyboard, I can still feel the pain course through my body. I was truly done at that point. It felt like this whole infertility situation had gotten the best of me. It had won.

That was on a Monday. I had to carry my son in me until that Friday when I could get a dilation and evacuation, a surgical procedure that takes place after the second trimester of pregnancy where the patient’s cervix is dilated and suction is used to remove the fetus.

That was the worst week of my life. I couldn’t think, I couldn’t feel. It was as if a part of my soul had died. How had this happened? I had felt him growing inside me and now I had to sit here for five days knowing he was no longer alive. I clutched my stomach every day trying to wake him

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Seeking Poetry The Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) and the Public Art Committee invite submissions of unpublished, original poems for the 2021 Poet’s Pause poetry competition.

The poems will be displayed at the two Poet’s Pause sculpture sites in Alta Lake Park. Writers are invited to submit poems for one or both of the display sites. The poems should respond to the theme selected for each site, listening and togetherness.

Poems are due Thursday April 1, 2021 at 3:00pm and should be submitted to resortexperience@whistler.ca Learn more at whistler.ca/PoetryCompetition

Resort Municipality of Whistler whistler.ca

38 MARCH 25, 2021

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FEATURE STORY

‘It’s not anyone’s fault’ WHISTLER COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY’S (WCSS)

executive director

Jackie Dickinson remembers the moment several years ago when a local woman approached her to talk about the non-profit’s popular Birth, Baby & Beyond program for new parents.

The mother said she would really like to attend the program, which was developed to support parents through the post-partum period and provide a forum to share in the joys and challenges of raising a newborn, but, after losing her baby, she felt like “this isn’t a place for me—but it should be.”

That small but significant moment of vulnerability made a distinct impression on Dickinson.

“It really impacted me and made me realize, first of all, that that mom should always feel welcome to the group. She is a mother,” Dickinson, herself a mother of two, says. “And secondly, that there is a group here that do not feel visible, that do not feel as if they belong, and we have a responsibility as an organization to connect with people and say, ‘What is it you need?’”

It was through stories like this, stories that too often get left behind closed doors, that led WCSS to develop its Pregnancy & Infant Loss program, which typically takes places two or three times a year over six weeks, led by local doula Carla Royal and clinical counsellor Greg McDonnell.

“It was through our conversations and a great deal of advocacy from local families that had experienced loss that we developed the program,” Dickinson says. “We felt it was really important to integrate a clinical counsellor to support and create a sense of community for these families through a support group program, because a lot of times people feel as if what they’re experiencing is solely their own or that there isn’t a language or conversation to support people [discussing] it. There’s a lot of stigma around it.”

Everything felt so inconsequential

There has been plenty of ink spilled over the baby boom Whistler experienced in 2013—Dickinson says there were more than 100 babies born that year alone, including her firstborn—which helped provide new parents a built-in support group. But when that joyous milestone turns to tragedy, support can be much harder to find. “There’s so much focus on the celebratory nature of becoming pregnant that we tend to not provide enough space [to acknowledge] that experience is not shared

and I started to

by everyone,” says Dickinson.

grow angry and

work through a lot of those conversations within partnerships, with clinical counsellors, with speaking

separated from the rest of my friends and family.

“I do think for a lot of families, they feel somewhat responsible, so there is a lot of shame and blame in that. Really, as part of the process of healing that we’ve encouraged people to be a part of is to about it to other people. It’s not anyone’s fault.”

What’s more is, because expectant parents often have to travel to Squamish or Vancouver to give birth, when pregnancy or infant loss happens, the support services provided typically originate in those communities, further adding to the sense of isolation families already feel.

“For some of those families, they went down to Vancouver hoping to give birth to a child and they drove back to Whistler with an empty car seat,” says Dickinson. “We have a responsibility here to remind them this is their home, so those services should support that.”

Registration for the Pregnancy & Infant Loss program is available at mywcss.org/mental-andemotional-health/pregnancy-infant-loss. Specific dates for upcoming programs will be released in the spring. - Brandon Barrett

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FEATURE STORY up, trying to wake myself up. He couldn’t be gone. I didn’t deserve this. Why did the universe hate me?

On Thursday, my husband and I went to Vancouver to stay the night since the procedure was early the next morning.

To add insult to injury, I had to have spacers inserted into my cervix to maximize dilation. That was the worst pain I had ever felt. I couldn’t walk more than two steps without laying down and nearly passing out.

That night, I didn’t want to fall asleep. I clutched my belly and cried for hours knowing it was the last night I was going to spend with my son. I knew he wasn’t there anymore, but I couldn’t come to grips with that reality. I was supposed to be a mother in four more months, but here I was, in a hotel, waiting to wake up in the morning to have my baby removed from me.

The next day I went to the hospital and we were lucky enough that my husband could come into the room with me. They gave me seven different types of medication and I happily accepted them, as I did not want to feel anymore.

They carted me away and I remember feeling pressure and then waking up empty. Actually, empty doesn’t do justice to how I felt.

I spent the next two weeks self-medicating and trying to gain the strength to do normal everyday things. My body thought I had given birth so I started to lactate a few days after the procedure. A true kick while I was down. I realized this recovery was going to be a lot worse than the one after the ectopic.

I slowly started to feel human again after going on some hikes, seeing friends, talking through what happened, and going back to work a few days a week. The support my husband and I received from friends, family and the community was amazing. Every day we received flowers and gifts showing we were in a lot of people’s thoughts. It truly helped us move forward and I am forever grateful for all of it.

I spent the summer recovering and enjoying wine again.

This time, no one gave me their advice; no one really knew what to say. I could see the pity in their eyes. I could feel myself retreating from the people around me, not wanting to do normal things, like take a picture with my sister or laugh at the joke everyone else was laughing at. Everything felt so inconsequential and I started to grow angry and separated from the rest of my friends and family.

By September, I decided to hop back on the horse and go for a second round of IVF. I already had the embryos ready to go, so after a few injections and weeks of hormones, I went for an embryo transfer. This time, because I had had two significant losses, I decided to put two embryos in, in the hopes of having twins. My thought process was that I could get two kids out of one pregnancy and would not ever have to go through IVF again. I was advised of the risks of premature birth and how hard the pregnancy could be, but I went for it anyways.

Six weeks later, I was given the news that both embryos latched and I was going to have twins. I was so excited; finally, the universe had dealt cards in my favour. I was ready and wanted this more than anything. People kept

Every day we received flowers and gifts showing we were in a lot of people’s thoughts. It truly helped us move forward and I am forever grateful for all of it.

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telling I didn’t want twins, but I wasn’t going to let that negative energy into my life.

Because I was having twins and was now considered highrisk, I was to receive ultrasounds every few weeks rather than the three or four a normal pregnancy would receive in the entire nine months.

In the ninth week of ultrasounds, I found out I lost one of the twins. All the feelings from the past came flooding back. I was certain I was going to lose the other baby. I retreated into my hole. How was my body continuing to give up on me? I pictured the smug looks on the faces of the people who told me trying for twins was a bad idea. The pressure of society telling me I wasn’t a real woman came flooding in and I couldn’t escape it. I was trying to be joyous of the life still inside me, but the guilt of losing another one was overwhelming.

The next few months, I was angry and grumpy towards everyone. I wouldn’t let my guard down. I wouldn’t let myself be hurt again. But this baby was a strong one and kept surprising me with her growth. I went into every ultrasound expecting the worst, but there she was, kicking and waving to us as if she was trying to tell me she was here to stay.

As I sit here writing this, 24 weeks pregnant, I still worry that I am going to lose this baby, but I am further along than before and I can feel our little girl move and groove inside me. The realization that anything can happen at any time is certainly not lost on me, but I have started to do normal pregnant women stuff and think positively.

I have realized that women who go through miscarriages or have other fertility issues mostly suffer alone and in private. At first, I didn’t understand why. But now I do. We have been taught that a woman’s primary function is to be a mother. To grow up, get married and have families. We are told that once you get off birth control, pregnancy will come with no problems. In turn, when we have fertility issues or experience loss, we feel shame, because that’s what we’ve been conditioned to feel. Put on a happy face and smile pretty. Don’t ever talk about it because you don’t want anyone to know you can’t do the job your body was supposedly made to do.

I’m sharing my story because since posting about it on social media, I have heard stories from many other women who have gone through loss like mine, when I had no idea they had.

I see so many women who aren’t ready to have children (some are never ready and choose not to and that’s perfectly OK, too) when they’re in their younger years. They don’t tell you the challenges you could face as you get older and the struggles infertility can bring. We need to make these things OK to talk about, to remove the shame.

I have learned through all of this that feeling this pain, this grief is natural. It’s OK not to feel OK. Women are so often trained to just grin and bear it, but when it comes to such immense loss, it’s OK to lose yourself, to cry, to scream and let your guard down.

I hope my story can reach at least one woman out there, so she realizes she is not alone and that I, at least, am here for her. n

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MARCH 25, 2021

41

SPORTS THE SCORE

Whistler coach earns provincial honour AS THE 2021 RECIPIENT OF THE BOBBIE STEEN LEGACY FOUNDATION AWARD, MEGAN HEBERT ALSO RECEIVES $2,000

BY MEGAN LALONDE AT EVENTS, BC Provincial Snowboard Cross assistant coach Meghan Hebert is used to being one of the only female coaches on the mountain.

“When I’m coaching in Europe, I’m maybe one of five women, out of 25 coaches there, whereas in Canada, if there’s the same amount of coaches I may be one of two,” Hebert said.

She wants that to change.

The 31-year-old Whistler local’s advocacy for gender equity in snowboarding earned her a provincial honour this month, as she was named the 2021 recipient of the Bobbie Steen Legacy Foundation Award for emerging female leaders in B.C. sports.

She’ll be officially awarded the honour during Sport BC’s Athlete of the Year Awards, set to take place virtually this year on Thursday, March 25.

“To my knowledge there hasn’t been any female coaches who are in the snowsport industry who have been selected for this award, so I was very surprised,” Hebert said over the phone, while carrying out her mandatory quarantine in Whistler after returning home from coaching in Europe.

“Going into the nomination process … we kind of weren’t sure where I would be

REACHING THE SUMMIT BC Snowboard Team assistant coach and Whistler local Meghan Hebert is being recognized at this year’s BC Sports Athlete of the Year Awards as an emerging female leader in the province’s sports industry. The Bobbie Steen Legacy Award is accompanied by a grant that will help fund her idea to host a women’s snowboard summit for aspiring coaches.

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42 MARCH 25, 2021

standing with the selection committee for the awards, so it was definitely a shock, but I’m very happy about it.”

Managed by ProMotion Plus—a B.C.based non-profit that strives to promote opportunities in sport and physical activity for women and girls across the province— the prestigious award aims to provide financial support to activities dedicated to advancing gender equity in these industries.

As such, Hebert will receive a $2,000 grant along with the honour. It will help fund the creation of a women’s snowboard summit, an idea Hebert said she was working to implement before COVID-19 hit. The concept “ended up being why I got selected for the Bobbie Steen award,” Hebert explained.

day where it’s all about them and their own riding,” Hebert explained.

“But then on top of that, let’s also teach women [about] the judging side of the sport and the official side of the speed disciplines,

“To my knowledge there hasn’t been any female coaches who are in the snow-sport ind ustry who have been selected for this award, so I was very surprised.”

- MEGHAN HEBERT

Rather than enticing women into coaching through women’s-only coaching programs or welcoming women into snowboarding through women’s-only progression programs, Hebert’s summit would bring those two ideas together into a three-day event.

“We’d have a day where we show them a coaching program, and we consolidate it, so on the following day, we have progression

and also the director’s side—like how do you run a program? And just go over all the different pillars of snowboarding as a competitive sport, and bring us all together.”

She added, “That’s what I’m trying to build for next year, when we’re able to get together.”

Hebert first entered the world of coaching as a snowboard instructor in Ontario before joining the ranks at

Whistler Blackcomb. Soon after moving to B.C., she decided to step into the world of competitive snowboarding as an athlete, eventually earning herself a spot on the BC Snowboard Team. “I was on the team for a few years and through my time as an athlete, I started to get into coaching just as a means to pay for my athletic career,” she recalled.

About six years ago, when she decided to take a step back from competing herself, Hebert took over as owner and director of the North Shore Snowboard Team in North Vancouver. “I kind of took that program over thinking like, there’s not a lot of coaching jobs and that’s what I want to do.

So I’ll create my own job,” she recalled.

But, “all at the same time,” a spot opened up on the BC Snowboard Team’s coaching staff. “So I went from athlete on the team, and then within a year, being a part-time coach,” she said. With the help of her mentors and the team’s head coach, Hebert was able to carve out her current full-time role as an assistant coach and provincial coach developer. Now, balanced with her role of director of the North Shore club, “I have my own team within the [BC Snowboard] team that I oversee as part of a pathway to becoming a head coach eventually one day,” she explained. n

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MARCH 25, 2021

43

EPICURIOUS

‘We need to feed the people’ MEET THE FORMER PORTOBELLO MANAGER WHO IS HELPING CHANGE THE WAY WCSS FEEDS WHISTLER

BY BRANDON BARRETT FRASER CAREY gets a lot of pleasantly surprised looks in his role as food security coordinator for the Whistler Community Services Society (WCSS).

Whether it’s the gracious clients who walk into the food bank looking for a hand and walk away with the ingredients and recipe to whip up a delectable, gourmet meal, or the cooped-up locals in COVID-19 quarantine he personally delivers a meal kit to, Carey is helping shift the perception of what a food bank does.

“That’s my mandated goal this year, to try to remove the stigma or the preconceived notion of what a food bank is,” he said.

“Food security is such an issue that I think it needed to be addressed and I think it needs to be addressed from all areas. From businesses, hotels, restaurants, grocery stores, farms. We need to feed the people. We need to get people with food in their stomachs. That fuels their next move.”

First coming on in November of last year, Carey, the former manager of the Fairmont Chateau Whistler’s Portobello restaurant, left a job teaching culinary arts at the local Tamwood International College before the pandemic left him without work.

MAN ON A MISSION Fraser Carey, the Whistler Community Services Society’s food security coordinator, is helping change the way we think about food banks.

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44 MARCH 25, 2021

Given his and the Fairmont’s involvement in WCSS’ hot-lunch school program over the years, Carey felt the transition into a non-profit role was a natural fit.

“I found that I wanted to keep going and I wanted to keep sharing what I knew,” Carey said. “It’s rewarding for me. I leave my job and I feel good, especially now because I see that the impact of what I do changes somebody—and not only just because I’m feeding them, but also their mental state.

That’s one less thing on their plate that they have to worry about this week.”

Food banks have long been thought of as a last-resort option for only the most

metropolitan cities and Whistler, rents are so out there that more than half of somebody’s income goes towards their rent.

If you have a car and you have insurance, there’s another 30 per cent.”

Along with getting wholesale pricing on food purchases, WCSS also sources large volumes of food from local restaurants, hotels and grocery stores that would otherwise be discarded—to the tune of 5,000 pounds last month alone.

“It’s produce, it’s bakery items, it’s bread, it’s all these items where there may be a case of eggs that has come in, but because the first few have broken and leaked over the rest of

“I see that the impact of what I do changes somebody—and not only just because I’m feeding them, but also their mental state.

That’s one less thing on their plate that they have to worry about this week.”

- FRASER CAREY

vulnerable members of society, serving flavourless canned goods and day-old bread. But the reality is that food-bank clientele is incredibly diverse, particularly in Whistler, where the pandemic has only exacerbated the financial pressures that exist here.

“The misconception that you have to be homeless and indigent to use a food bank is so untrue,” Carey said. “In most

them, the grocery stores can’t sell them. So we can repackage those eggs and redistribute them,” Carey said.

Pre-pandemic, the food bank utilized a self-shop model where clients could pick their own items off the shelves. With health protocols in place, WCSS has had to move to pre-packaged meal kits, and the organization has started posting regular recipes online that can be made from

the ingredients sent home with clients, including a sweet potato and kale fry-up, green bean casserole and banana bread.

“I think it brings a sense of, ‘Oh, there actually is food at the food bank,’” Carey said of the recipes.

“We have seen people be more accepting that they’re using the food bank and thanking us for being out in our community and trying to take away that stereotype.”

You can also find Carey decked out in full PPE as he has delivered meal kits to locals in COVID-19 isolation or quarantine, another way WCSS is challenging perceptions around food banks.

“I don’t actually see them until I’m at least six feet [two metres] away from their door, and it’s usually that big thank you, like, ‘Oh my god, this is amazing. I can’t believe you guys do this!’” he relayed.

This month also saw the launch of a new WCSS program spearheaded by Carey called Kids Can Cook, free cooking classes (although families can choose to pay to help cover the cost of the program for another local family) that teach youngsters basic kitchen skills.

“One of the reasons I brought this project forward was, as a kid myself, I would finish school and go home and my parents were both working and I wanted to contribute to my family so I started thinking outside the box of what I could do. I saw how working with your child after work to make the meal and have the meal ready for your family when they come home, it helps boost how the child sees themselves and their selfconfidence,” he said. n

MEADOW PARK SPORTS CENTRE SWIM • SKATE • SWEAT • SQUASH OPEN DAILY: 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

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ARTS SCENE

Whistler author gets inspired by what might lurk beneath snow banks for debut book REBECCA WOOD BARRETT RELEASES MY BEST FRIEND IS EXTINCT FOR MIDDLE-GRADE READERS

BY ALYSSA NOEL IT’S HARD TO DENY an element of fate in the story of how Rebecca Wood Barrett’s debut book came to be published.

The Whistler author pitched her first book to a publisher at the Whistler Writers Festival (for which she serves as festival manager) two-and-a-half years ago. While they took a pass that time around, out of the blue Wood Barrett heard from them again.

“Have you got anything else?” she recalls them asking.

“I was like, ‘As a matter of fact, I just finished a book. I’ll send it to you.’”

That book was My Best Friend is Extinct, written for middle-grade youth readers, officially released on March 16.

Wood Barrett suspects it was the main character, Henry, who resonated this time around.

“He’s a really funny kind of misfit,” she says. “He’s quite loveable. I have a writers’ group and we meet every month and the one common comment would be, ‘I just love Henry. I love being back with Henry again.’ You know you’re onto something

GOOD READ Whistler author Rebecca Wood Barrett’s book, My Best Friend is Extinct, is out now.

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46 MARCH 25, 2021

when people root for that main character.”

The story itself takes place in the “wintery mountain town” where 10-yearold Henry and his mom have just moved. In the midst of an epic snow year—rumoured to be the start of a new ice age—Henry finds a prehistoric-type creature that’s injured in a tunnel running through a snow bank.

During this time, she also came across the idea that there are quite a few North American animals that only went extinct 10,000 years ago—like the short-faced bear, the saber-tooth tiger, and giant sloths.

“I thought, ‘What if there were pockets of these creatures that never really went extinct,’” she adds. “Because you go out into the backcountry and you think, ‘Wow,

“All winter I was seeing these lumpy snow banks thinking, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool if there were animals in there and they came out at night to prowl the neighbourhood and no one knew?’”

- REBECCA WOOD BARRETT

Dubbing the creature Yarp, he brings the animal home to nurse him back to health— only it’s not long before Henry discovers his new friend isn’t the only creature around.

“It’s one of those things, it started very small, looking out the window, seeing these huge snow banks,” Wood Barrett says. “All winter I was seeing these lumpy snow banks thinking, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool if there were animals in there and they came out at night to prowl the neighbourhood and no one knew?’”

there’s nobody out here.’ I can go out of my backyard 100 metres and get into trouble if I didn’t know what I was doing.”

While she initially intended to publish the chapter book without images, her publisher, Orca Book Publishers, connected her with Cornelia Li, who ended up contributing 30 illustrations.

To help inspire the images, Wood Barrett sent her pictures of her Spring Creek backyard.

“She captured the spirit of the snow

and the colours of the snow, which to me is fascinating,” she says. “She has such a talent for bringing energy to a scene.”

Now with the book officially released— even landing on the B.C. bestseller list for two weeks—Wood Barrett is looking to celebrate her debut in a COVID-19-friendly way.

“It sounds so cliché, but it really is a dream come true,” she says. “I’ve wanted this for a long time. You can’t help but see other people publish and go, ‘Huh, that must be so nice.’”

To that end, My Best Friend is Extinct will have a virtual book launch on April 8 from 6 to 6:45 p.m. with award-winning Whistler author Sara Leach in conversation with Wood Barrett.

Beforehand, she will host a one-hour virtual writing workshop for young writers about how to build invented worlds.

“It’s a workshop for children—I would say eight to 12—but anyone can come,” she says. “We’ll be doing brainstorming, thinking up some new types of creatures.

The whole idea of the workshop is about world building and how does your world and the setting of your story influence the choices you’ll make in terms of plots and characters.”

That event takes place from 4 to 5 p.m.

Both events are free, but you have to RSVP in advance to get the link at youthservices@ whistlerlibrary.ca. n

ARTS SCENE

EXHIBITION EXTENDED TO MAY 9 TH

RESERVOIR

BY REBECCA BELMORE

ON AIR Farha Guerrero in her home recording studio in Whistler. Catch The Blue Hour on CiTR. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Recorded in Whistler, The Blue Hour taps experts in science, arts, and humanities LOCAL RADIO HOST RE-LAUNCHES CITR SHOW WITH LOCAL GUESTS ON DEBUT EPISODE

BY ALYSSA NOEL FARHA GUERRERO came up with the name for her newly relaunched radio show, The Blue Hour, during a difficult time.

The Whistlerite was staying in Hotel Blu in downtown Vancouver while she was in the city to be with her ailing mother.

“It was a blue hour for me,” she recalls in an email, a follow-up to an interview with Pique. “My mother was dying, but as I gazed out my window that night, to my delight, I was facing the CBC Radio Regional Broadcast centre on Hamilton Street. The large radio antennas were looking at me and that blue hour suddenly became a happy one. I knew I would be back on the radio.”

Before moving to Whistler seven years ago, Guerrero hosted a program on CiTR, a community radio station affiliated with the University of British Columbia (UBC), called Prof Talk. The concept was simple, but the amount of effort and care that went into each episode was not.

“Initially the idea was a radio show where I’d interview professors at UBC,” she says. “Because my own transcript is interdisciplinary—I’ve studied many things over many years—I wanted to have that same focus … The idea was I would interview people and talk about their research.”

Taking advantage of the experts in science, arts, and humanities—and digging into their journal articles and books—at her fingertips, she aimed for big names in academia, and landed many.

“It was a real challenge,” she says. “What I really liked was digging into sciences. It’s an area I’ve never pursued academically. I didn’t want to ask typical questions related to what was happening at the time. I was interested in getting as nerdy as you can get.”

The show, however, tapered off once she moved to Whistler and the prospect of commuting for the volunteer job became daunting. But the appeal of hosting it always lingered in her mind.

Late last year she sent the station an email asking if she could revive the program. At that point, all the programmers were producing their shows from their home, due to the pandemic. “I wasn’t even thinking I would be producing everything at home again,” she says. “I was just thinking, ‘How could I get back into this again?’”

Much to her delight, the station was on board—and she got the greenlight to produce everything from her mountain home.

Rather than focusing entirely on professors, the scope of the show is a bit wider. Now, she does a deep dive with experts from all over the world talking about life, literature, science, and philosophy.

“Every show has a personal touch,” she adds. “So the guests choose their own music they like. I ask them basically if they could give me a couple of names of people they admire, people they look up to, past or present. I’m trying to incorporate something deeper than before—the person behind the research.”

Her comeback show, for example, featured Whistler-based author, editor, biologist (and Pique columnist) Leslie Anthony who, for the record, selected John Prine and The Shins for his musical picks.

Up next, catch Shari Forbes, a thanatology expert on the decomposition of human bodies; Jerilynn C. Prior, an endocrinologist and leader in understanding and treating perimenopause and menopause; Katherine Bowers, an expert on Russian literature, culture, and Dostoevsky studies; and Julio Montaner, a leading scientist and physician on AIDS/ HIV (to be released in Spanish).

With the show available online at citr. ca/radio/the-blue-hour—and soon on all podcasting platforms—Guerrero is hoping to gain more local listeners.

“I feel like my brain here, I’m processing stuff in ways I wouldn’t have before,” she says. “When I’m preparing an interview, I might listen to a podcast or another interview.

I might be walking in the forest when I’m listening. I’m so much more prepared, so much more clear.” n

Location 4350 Blackcomb Way – between Day Lots 3 & 4 Hours

11am – 6pm Thursday to Sunday

MARCH 25, 2021

47

MUSEUM MUSINGS

SECURE BICYCLE PARKING IN THE VILLAGE For more info and how to apply visit: www.whistler.ca/bikeparking

READ ALL ABOUT IT The cover of the February 1969 Garibaldi’s Whistler News shows Tex Rodgers and Jordi Bright, son of Jack Bright, in the Whistler Mountain parking lot.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Reporting on Alta Lake

BY ALLYN PRINGLE

Resort Municipality of Whistler Whistler.ca/bikeparking

THIS EVENING (Thursday, March 25) the

We’re unplugging for Earth Hour

MARCH 27 FROM 8:30-9:30PM

$5 FROM EVERY ROBE RENTAL WILL BE DONATED TO POW CANADA Unplug and spark a conversation about climate change and how we can all do our part to combat it. Learn more at earthhour.org and protectourwinters.ca

48 MARCH 25, 2021

SCANDINAVE.COM | 1 888 935 2423 8010 Mons Road, Whistler BC

Whistler Museum’s second virtual Speaker Series is set to take a look at journalism in Whistler since the 1970s. Our guests, Paul Burrows, Charlie Doyle, Bob Barnett, and Clare Ogilvie, have worked with and founded some of the best-known publications in the valley: The Whistler Question, The Whistler Answer, and Pique Newsmagazine. Before we explore recent journalism in the area, let’s look back at earlier sources of news.

The first source of news published in Alta Lake came from the Alta Lake School in 1939.

Older students at the school created the Alta Lake School Club, which sponsored The Alta Lake School Gazette. The Gazette published six issues from Feb. 11 to June 5, 1939, and was staffed by names that may sound familiar: Bob Jardine, Tom Neiland and Helen, George and Jack Woods. The stated purpose of the Gazette was “to give a current account of happening each month as seen by its editor and his staff.”

Its column “Local News of Interest” included a mix of opinions, observations, and gossip about the residents of the Alta Lake area and their comings and goings. The Gazette did include a few pieces about news outside of Alta Lake, such as a boxing match and an editorial on the Canadian Navy, which were most likely put together with information from the radio or The Vancouver Sun, which was available at the store at Rainbow Lodge.

In 1958, the Alta Lake Community Club (ALCC) began publishing a newsletter to which members and friends could subscribe. The newsletter went by various names between 1958 and 1961: The Alta Lake Reminder, Community Weekly Sunset, the Alta Lake Echo, and the Alta Lake Owl. As a community newsletter, it wasn’t necessarily known for its serious reporting but did keep

people up-to-date on the travels of residents and frequent visitors to the area, community events such as dances and clean-ups, and the weather. The newsletter also included a series about the local environment by thenclub president Bill Bailiff and an abridged version of Hamlet (sadly, the museum does not have a complete retelling of Hamlet from the ALCC, which is far more humorous than Shakespeare’s version). In 1961, the newsletter was taken over by the Alta Lake Ratepayers Association and then ceased publication.

A lot changed in the area between 1961 and 1967, when Garibaldi Lifts Ltd. began publishing Garibaldi’s Whistler News (GWN) in November. Early editions of GWN were put together by Jack Bright and Lynn Mathews, who described the publication as a “good news” newspaper meant to promote Whistler Mountain.

GWN reported on developments in the valley, such as new lodges and businesses, and some years included a column by Ray Gallagher of Brandywine Falls Resort similar to the community news reported in earlier newsletters. However, as the purpose of GWN was, as Lynn stated, “to get people up that road,” few stories said anything negative about the area and the development happening around Whistler Mountain.

Outside of the Alta Lake area, local news could be found in the newspapers of Squamish. The Squamish Times, owned by Cloudesley Hoodspith from 1957 to 1992, and the Squamish Citizen (also published

by Hoodspith) included Alta Lake/Whistler news, but their primary focus was not on this area. It was not until the ‘70s that the newly formed Resort Municipality of Whistler would be represented by an official local newspaper.

To learn more about journalism in Whistler from the 1970s to the present this evening, visit our website at whistlermuseum.org/events or contact us at the Whistler Museum. n

PARTIAL RECALL

2

1

3

4

5

TANTALUS TONES One benefit of sunny March days? Golden sunsets like the one pictured here, over the Tantalus Range south of Whistler. PHOTO BY ANDREA L-ESTEVES. 2 BIRD’S EYE VIEW A raven takes in the panoramic view of 7th VACCINATION STATION Long-time Whistler resident Clarence Todd receives his COVID-19 vaccine from nurse Nancy Skukas at Vancouver Coastal Health’s vaccination clinic in Whistler, on Friday, March 19. PHOTO COURTESY OF VANCOUVER COASTAL HEALTH. 4 OLYMPIANS INSPIRE Momentum Camps are stoked to inspire their Spring Break freestyle campers with a stellar crew of Olympian coaches. Pictured from from left to right are two-time Olympian PA Rousseau, Noram skier Sam Cordell, two-time Olympians John Smart and Yuki Tsubota, World Cup skier Nikki Blackall and Olympic Gold Medalist Dara Howell. PHOTO COURTESY OF MOMENTUM CAMPS. 5 SWAN SONG Four1

Heaven from Harmony Ridge. PHOTO SUBMITTED. 3

month-old Dougie the dog kept a watchful eye over the swans floating around a still-partially frozen Green Lake on Thursday, March 17. PHOTO SUBMITTED.

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS! Send your recent snaps to arts@piquenewsmagazine.com

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49

ASTROLOGY

NOTICE

PARCEL TAX ROLL REVIEW

This notice is applicable to owners of property situated within the Resort Municipality of Whistler and whose properties are subject to one or all of the following parcel taxes: • • •

Emerald Sewer Specified Area Parcel Tax Water Parcel Tax Sewer Parcel Tax

The Resort Municipality of Whistler advises that the parcel tax roll for the 2021 roll year are available for public inspection at the Resort Municipality of Whistler Municipal Hall, 4325 Blackcomb Way, business hours 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday only (inclusive) (statutory holidays excluded).

The Resort Municipality of Whistler also advises that any complaints of the tax roll must be received by the Manager of Financial Services no later than 4:30 PM, Friday, April 02, 2021.

Valid Complaints are: • Errors or omission of a name or address, • Errors or omissions on inclusion of a parcel, • Errors or omissions of taxable area or taxable frontage, • An exemption has been improperly allowed or disallowed.

A complaint must be in writing and must: • Include an address for delivery of any notices in respect of the complaint, • Identify the property of which the complaint is made, • Include the full name of the complainant and telephone number where they can be contacted at regular business hours, • Indicate if the complainant is the owner of the property, • Indicate, if applicable, the name of the complainant’s agent and telephone number where they can be contacted at regular business hours, • State the grounds that the complaint is based upon, • And any other prescribed information.

Resort Municipality of Whistler 4325 Blackcomb Way Whistler British Columbia Canada V0N 1B4 www.whistler.ca

TEL: 604-932-5535 TF: 1-866-932-5535 FAX: 604-935-8109

Resort Municipality of Whistler whistler.ca

40TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION IS HERE! IN PRINT AND ONLINE!

• • • • • •

Covid ’19’ Things To Do Comfort food Long-term locals Backcountry Bounty The Evolution of Ski Style Whistler Classic Homes

AND MUCH MORE!

Look for it in select hotel rooms, on stands, in shops… or call us if you would like copies delivered. cpower@whistlermagazine.com

| 604-932-1672

Whistler’s premier visitor magazine since 1980 whistlermagazine.com

50 MARCH 25, 2021

Free Will Astrology WEEK OF MARCH 25 BY ROB BREZSNY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): In the novel House of Leaves, the hero Johnny Truant describes his friend Lude as wanting “more money, better parties, and prettier girls.” But Johnny wants something different. What is it? He says, “I’m not even sure what to call it except I know it feels roomy and it’s drenched in sunlight and it’s weightless and I know it’s not cheap.” In my opinion, that declaration is far too imprecise! He’ll never get what he wants until he gets clearer about it. But his fantasy is a good start. It shows that he knows what the fulfillment of his yearning feels like. I suggest you get inspired by Johnny Truant’s approximation to conjure up one of your own. Gaze ahead a few years, and see if you can imagine what your best possible future feels like. Then describe it to yourself as precisely as possible.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): How distraught I was when I discovered that one of my favourite poets, Pablo Neruda, was an admirer of the murderous dictator Joseph Stalin.

It broke my heart to know I could never again read his tender, lyrical poetry with unconditional appreciation.

But that’s life: Some of our heroes and teachers disappoint us, and then it’s healthy to re-evaluate our relationships with them. Or maybe our own maturation leads us to realize that once-nurturing influences are no longer nurturing. I recommend that sometime soon, you take a personal inventory with these thoughts in mind. I suspect there may be new sources of inspiration headed your way. Get ready for them.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Self-help author Steve Maraboli has useful advice for you to consider in the coming weeks. I hope you’ll meditate on what he says and take decisive action. He writes, “Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don’t.” To get started, Gemini, make a list of three things you do have power over and three things you wish you did but don’t have power over.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): While he was alive, Cancerian author Franz Kafka burned 90 per cent of everything he wrote. In a note to a friend before he died, he gave instructions to burn all the writing he would leave behind. Luckily, his friend disobeyed, and that’s why today we can read Kafka’s last three novels and a lot more of his stuff. Was his attitude toward his creations caused by the self-doubt that so many of us Cancerians are shadowed by? Was he, like a lot of us Crabs, excessively shy about sharing personal details from his life? In accordance with astrological omens, I urge you to at least temporarily transcend any Kafka-like tendencies you have. It’s time to shine brightly and boldly as you summon your full powers of self-expression.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): To create your horoscope, I’ve borrowed ideas from Leo-born author Cassiano Ricardo.

He speaks of a longing “for all that is tall like pine trees, and all that is long like rivers, and all that is purple like dusk.” I think yearnings like those will be healthy and wise for you to cultivate in the coming weeks. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you need expansive influences that stretch your imagination and push you beyond your limitations. You will benefit from meditations and experiences that inspire you to outgrow overly small expectations.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Virgo actor and director Jean-Louis Barrault (1910–1994) aspired to “wake up a virgin each morning.” He wanted “to feel hungry for life,” as if he had been reborn once again. In order to encourage that constant renewal, he regarded going to sleep every night as “a small death.” I recommend his approach to you during the coming weeks. In my astrological opinion, the cosmic rhythms will be conspiring to regularly renew your desires: to render them pure, clean, raw, and strong.

Cooperate with those cosmic rhythms!

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Is there anything more gratifying than being listened to, understood, and seen

for who you really are? I urge you to seek out that pleasure in abundance during the coming weeks. My reading of the astrological omens tells me you need the nurturing jolt that will come from being received and appreciated with extra potency. I hope you have allies who can provide that for you. If you don’t, search for allies who can. And in the meantime, consider engaging the services of a skillful psychotherapist or life coach or some other professional listener.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Blobs, spots, specks, smudges, cracks, defects, mistakes, accidents, exceptions, and irregularities are the windows to other worlds,” writes author Bob Miller. I would add that all those things, along with related phenomena like fissures, blemishes, stains, scars, blotches, muck, smears, dents, and imperfections, are often windows to very interesting parts of this seemingly regular old ordinary world—parts that might remain closed off from us without the help of those blobs and defects. I suggest you take full advantage of the opportunities they bring your way in the coming weeks.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Innovative psychologist Carl Jung had a nuanced understanding of the energies at work in our deep psyche. He said our unconscious minds are “not only dark but also light; not only bestial, semi-human, and demonic, but also superhuman, spiritual, and, in the classical sense of the word, ‘divine.’” I bring this to your attention, Sagittarius, because now is a favourable time to get better acquainted with and more appreciative of your unconscious mind. For best results, you must not judge it for being so paradoxical. Don’t be annoyed that it’s so unruly and non-rational. Have fun with its fertility and playfulness and weirdness.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The fantasy drama Game of Thrones appeared on TVs all over the world. But the audience that watched it in China got cheated out of a lot of essential action. Government censorship deleted many scenes that featured nudity and sex, fighting and violence, and appearances by dragons, which play a starring role in the story. As you can imagine, Chinese viewers had trouble following some of the plot points.

Telling you about this, Capricorn, is my way of nudging you to make sure you don’t miss any of the developments going on in your own personal drama. Some may be hidden, as in China’s version of Game of Thrones. Others might be subtle or disguised or underestimated. Make it your crusade to know about everything.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind,” wrote author Rudyard Kipling. Yes, they are. I agree. They change minds, rouse passions, build identities, incite social change, inspire irrationality, and create worlds. This is always true, but it will be especially important for you to keep in mind during the coming weeks. The ways you use language will be key to your health and success. The language that you hear and read will also be key to your health and success. For best results, summon extra creativity and craftsmanship as you express yourself. Cultivate extra discernment as you choose what you absorb.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Piscean linguist Anna Wierzbicka says the Russian expression dusha naraspashku means “unbuttoned soul.” She continues, “The implication is that it is good, indeed wonderful, if a person’s ‘soul,’ which is the seat of emotions, is flung open in a spontaneous, generous, expansive, impetuous gesture, expressing full trust in other people and an innocent readiness for communion with them.” I wouldn’t recommend that you keep your soul unbuttoned 24/7/365, but in the coming weeks, I hope you’ll allocate more time than usual to keeping it unbuttoned.

Homework: Send ideas for April Fool pranks that fulfill the following prescription: “Comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.” Truthrooster@gmail.com

In addition to this column, Rob Brezsny creates

EXPANDED AUDIO HOROSCOPES /whistlermagazine

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

CHEAKAMUS COMMUNITY FOREST OPEN HOUSE

Monday, March 29 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Review 2020 operations and learn about harvesting and wildfire project plans proposed for 2021.

To pre-register for the virtual open house visit whistler.ca/ccf

Resort Municipality of Whistler

Canoe, kayak and SUP storage rack rental spaces at Whistler parks New staggered dates for seasonal reservations. SUP storage spaces will be available online from April 13 at noon, and canoe/kayak spaces from April 14 at noon. Reservations are on a first come first serve basis online, and storage spaces typically sell out quickly.

Rack spaces will be available for renters to use from April 15 to November 15.

For more information, please contact Heather Beresford at 604-935-8374 or hberesford@whistler.ca

See Canoe, kayak and paddleboard storage rental at: whistler.ca/SUPstorage

www.cheakamuscommunityforest.com

Resort Municipality of Whistler whistler.ca /parks

Celebrating 19 Years SUNDAY, MARCH GLC

NT.

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ANN UAL GEN ERAL MEET ING 5.00PM | Ap ril 13, 2021 Online via ZOOM Join us to learn how Zero Ceiling is fighting youth

homelessness, and see what we've got planned for the future.

Ever yone welcome to this FREE event!

RSVP by visiting zeroceiling.org WITH SUPPORT FROM

info@ZEROCEILING.org | (604) 962-5000 MARCH 25, 2021

51

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52 MARCH 25, 2021

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LONG-TERM RENTALS

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View listing at barneybay.ca REAL ESTATE SERVICES Specializing in Real Estate Sales & Long-Term Rental Management Services Investors seeking to purchase a Rental Property & Owners seeking Long-Term Rental Management Services please phone 604-932-7849 or email info@whistlerproperty.com to discuss services & fees

LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENTS: Duane Kercher • 604-932-7849 duane@whistlerproperty.com Forrest Chittick • 604-902-7178 forrest@whistlerproperty.com

For a weekly sales report of new and sold listings in Whistler & Pemberton, please go to whistlerrealestatemarket.com or contact josh@joshcrane.ca

MARKETPLACE FURNITURE

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RE-BUILD-IT CENTRE Donations daily 10 am to 6 pm Accepting pre-loved furniture, tools and building supplies Shopping daily 10 am to 5 pm 1003 Lynham Road 604-932-1125 Visit mywcss.org and our social channels for updates.

Queen mattresses from $289.99 Bunk Beds from $699.99 Sofa beds from $1099.99

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WHISTLER

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WANTED TO BUY OLDER HOUSE IN ALPINE MEADOWS or other Whistler area with lot large enough to allow the building of a double garage with granny flat above in addition to the main home. Can deal directly with the Owner for cash sale. email malcolmfhgray@gmail.com

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5.44 ACRE Lot 51, Ivey Lake Subdivision, $590,000, 2-minute walk to Lake. 2.3 Km northeast of Pemberton, a 30-minute drive to Whistler. Fantastic view of Mt Currie.

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FLOORING

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• Planner - Projects

Open Monday through Friday 8:30 - 4:30 Saturday 10:00 -4:00 Sundays and Evenings by appointment only.

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big or small we do it all!

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For more information and application, please send resume and cover letter to hr@listelhotel.com Thank you for your interest. Only those applicants being considered for an interview will be contacted.

Lil’wat Nation

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3-1365 Alpha Lake Road Whistler, B.C, V0N1B1

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• Manager, Legislative Services/Corporate Officer

WHISTLER’S

FIX

THE FIRST PLACE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB OPENINGS

CARPET & FLOOR CENTRE

Phone 604-938-1126 email shawcarpet@shaw.ca

WORK

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

HOME SERVICES

SHAW

RENT

Employment Opportunity

IT Technician The IT Helpdesk Technician, (‘the Technician”) will support the Lil’wat Nation’s internal computer and system users. You will be first line of response to help resolve internal user’s helpdesk requests. With the support from the IT Team, the Technician will diagnose, troubleshoot software and hardware problems, help install applications and programs and help configure hardware ready to be deployed.

If you are interested in this very fast paced and exciting opportunity please send your resume and cover letter to melanie.williams@lilwat.ca by April 2, 2021.

For a full job description, please visit lilwat.ca/careers

For more information visit squamish.ca/careers

lilwat.ca

NORTHLANDS

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Protect your pooch this winter!

Antifreeze is highly toxic for pets – check for spills and keep safely stored away from pets.

Ice melters can irritate paws – wipe off paws after walks to avoid dogs ingesting.

White dogs are difficult to see in the snow – keep pets on leash as cars are not able to brake or react quickly in the winter weather.

COME WORK WITH US!

Local luxury home builder looking for motivated people with great attitudes to join our team!

Room for growth!

Sponsorship and apprenticeships available!

• Foreman or Lead Carpenters • Carpenters • Apprentices/Helpers • Labourers To apply, please send your resume to office@modernconceptcontracting.com MARCH 25, 2021

53

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MOTIVATED PERSON TO WORK WITH A FUN LANDSCAPING CREW RAIN OR SHINE.

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We are currently recruiting professionally minded people to join our team.

Required: Construction Labourers Pipelayers Please send resume to: Email: info@whistlerexcavations.com

Great wages depending on experience level, contact Deeply Rooted Landscaping at 604-698-4311 or mc@deeplyrootedlandscaping.com

REWARD BONUS OPTIONS GIVEN AT THE END OF THE SEASON

NEW! STARTS MARCH 22ND MONDAYS, 5:30-6:30PM Tone and Shape with Andy Tone, Shape and Sculpt your body into great shape.

Expect a good burn as we will hit every part of your body with a focus on abs, obliques and glutes.

We will follow the PHO guidelines: masks, physical distancing and low intensity.

www.whistler.ca/fitness 604-935-PLAY (7529) Community

NOTICES VOLUNTEERS Big Brothers, Big Sisters Sea to Sky Volunteer to Mentor- just 1hr/week - and make a difference in a child's life. Call 604-892-3125.

GENERAL NOTICES ROTARY CLUBS OF WHISTLER

APPRENTICES - CAPRPENTERS FOREMEN - PROJECT MANAGERS

WE ARE HIRING: Foremen, Carpenters, Labourers, Apprentices Please contact Marc@balmoralconstruction.com

54 MARCH 25, 2021

The Rotary Clubs of Whistler are now meeting virtually.

The Whistler Club Tuesdays at 3.

The Millennium Club Thursdays at 12:15.

Contact us at info@Whistler-rotary.org for log in info. All welcome.

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NOTICES LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES

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Clause of over 60 days arrears A-One U-Lock (2010) Ltd. DBA “A-1 U-Lock Self Storage”

Names: Kevin Howard Date: March 25th, 2021 Pursuant to terms and remedies defined in the Storage Rental Agreement between the abovenamed individuals and A-One U-Lock (2010) Ltd. (A1), A1 has deemed the agreement as terminated, and property within the locker as abandoned.

The named accounts have been in arrears for more than sixty (60) days thus terminating the storage rental agreement and deeming its contents abandoned.

The individuals account balance is to be paid by cash, certified cheque, or credit card on or before April 8th, 2021. Failure to do so will result in the contents (property) in the locker being offered for sale or recycled to recover all costs and expenses associated to this Abandonment and Termination.

PIQUENEWSMAGAZINE.COM/JOBS

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THE FIRST PLACE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB OPENINGS

N’Quatqua Child and Family Development Centre PO BOX 88/64 CASPER CHARLIE PLACE, DARCY BC V0N 1L0

Hiring – Experienced Excavator Operator Corona Excavations Ltd is looking for experienced excavator operator’s to join our crew. We are a civil based construction company with a professional and enjoyable working environment working in the sea to sky corridor from Pemberton to Squamish.

We are offering full-time hours with wages and benefits dependent on experience. 3+ years’ operating experience preferable but not essential.

If you are interested or have any questions please call 604-966-4856 or send an email with your CV to Dale@coronaexcavations.com.

Hiring – Experienced Pipelayers/Labourers Corona Excavations Ltd is looking for experienced pipelayers and labourers to work for the upcoming construction season. We are a civil based construction company with a professional and enjoyable working environment working in the sea to sky corridor from Pemberton to Squamish.

A-OneU-Lock (2010) Ltd.

We are offering full-time hours with wages dependant on experience.

Phone: 604-932-1948 Fax: 604-932-1946

If you are interested or have any questions please call 604-966-4856 or email me with your CV at Dale@coronaexcavations.com.

5-1209 Alpha Lake Road Whistler, BCV8E 0H8

FIX

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

LOCKER & CONTENTS

(PROPERTY) ABANDONMENT

WORK

JOB POSTING

ABORIGINAL SUPPORTED CHILD DEVELOPMENT EDUCATOR The N’Quatqua First Nation is seeking a qualified Aboriginal Supported Child Development Educator to fill a full-time position at N’Quatqua Child and Family Development Centre. The successful candidate will join our NCFDC team, the function of the Aboriginal Supported Child Development Educator is to provide the extra staffing support to a child care center in order for children with extra support needs to fully participate in the child care settings chosen by their families. The Educator works as a team member with child care setting staff and with all the children and families providing general support to the whole program to ensure effective inclusion of the children.

The successful candidate will have demonstrated ability in: • Ability to develop and maintain a warm, caring, responsive relationship with the child.

• Ability to establish and maintain supportive, collaborative relationships with families and staff.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality, positive, professional, non-judgemental attitude.

• Physically ability to carry out the duties of the position.

• Planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports community, inclusion and is culturally significant for young Aboriginal children • Understanding and working knowledge of Child Care Licensing regulations

INVITATION TO TENDER (CONTRACT)

• Interpersonal, written, oral communication skills and maintaining positive communication with parents • Collaborating with community service providers, Self-directed and able to initiate and complete projects The Pemberton Museum is calling for tenders for reconstruction and rehabilitation of two historic buildings at the Pemberton museum site. Tender documentation, including terms of reference and selection criteria, can be obtained from: Niki Madigan, Curator, 7455 Prospect St., Box 267, V0N 2L0, 604-894-5504. info@pembertonmuseum.org. The tender closes on Monday, March 29th 2021 at 4:00 pm 604-8945504 info@pembertonmuseum.org www.pembertonmuseum.org

@piquenews

MEETING PLACE Welcome Centre at Whistler Public Library - Information, support, community connections and ESL practice groups for newcomers and immigrants. Meet people, make connections, volunteer, build your communication skills in English.

Multicultural Meet Up every Friday 9.3012pm.604-698-5960 info@welcomewhistler.com FB: WhistlerWelcomeCentre

In addition, the Educator will have: • A minimum of 2 years work experience in a child care setting • Valid Early Childhood Educator Certificate, SNE Licence to Practice.

EXCITING CAREER OPPORTUNITIES, APPLY TODAY!

• Clear Criminal Records Check & Current First Aid • Food Safe or willingness to obtain

Diamond Resorts Canada Ltd., Whistler, BC

• Some knowledge of curriculum and philosophies in First Nations Early Childhood settings.

Full Time Maintenance Technicians

Terms of Employment: • Full-time, Monday to Thursday hours to be determined

Eligible successful candidate may receive*: • Extensive benefits package which may include; ski pass or wellness allowance, disability coverage, travel insurance and extended health and dental.

• Discounted employee rates at any Diamond Resort International resort.

• Full-time work year round and a FUN work environment. *eligibility and conditions based on DRCL policies and practices set out in general terms and conditions of employment.

Email your resume with the position you wish to apply for to: embarc_hr@diamondresorts.com

• Start Date: As soon as possible • Wage: (negotiable depending on experience) Cover Letter & Resume to: Title: Lisa Sambo, Manager Agency: N’Quatqua Child and Family Development Centre Email: lisa.sambo@nquatqua.ca Fax: 604-452-3295/3280 Deadline: until position is filled We thank all those who apply. Only those candidates selected for interview will be contacted.

MARCH 25, 2021

55

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PIQUENEWSMAGAZINE.COM/JOBS

7

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Front of house positions The Pony Restaurant in Pemberton is looking for a few new members to join our front of house team!

We are currently looking for: Full Day shift bartender: (thursdayMonday 11:30-5pm) this job requires previous bartending experience, a good knowledge of local bc craft beers, and wine. Have a good positive work ethic and be comfortable in a fast paced setting.

Servers: Must have previous serving experience in a similar style fast paced restaurant, full & part time positions available, variety of day/night shifts.

Must have up to date SIR cert. events@thepony.ca

4

5

Pique Newsmagazine is seeking a News/Sports/Social Media Reporter

88/64 CASPER CHARLIE PLACE, DARCY BC V0N 1L0

JOB POSTINGS

Deadline for Applications: April 2, 2021.

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8Pique 6Newsmagazine has a rare opportunity1for a9talented, committed journalist to cover world-class sporting activities, local news, mountain culture and share this 8 2 4 6 9 in print and across all social media platforms in North

PRESCHOOL CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR INFANT TODDLER EDUCATOR

You are passionate about sports, both individual and team, and you know what makes a compelling local news story and how to craft it and present it. You seek to engage and inform your community on whatever platform they want to use, print, online or mobile, and are an enthusiastic participant and leader in social media. You have an understanding of SEO and social media optimization, and proven storytelling/or interest in various media platforms, such as Instagram. You also know the mechanics of newspaper layout and can drive InDesign and Photoshop skillfully and efficiently. Ideally you also have at least three years experience at the community media level.

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The successful candidate will have demonstrated ability in: • Ability to develop and maintain a warm, caring, responsive relationship with the child.

MEDIUM

• Ability to maintain confidentiality, positive, professional, nonjudgmental attitude.

• Planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports community, inclusion and is culturally significant for young Aboriginal children

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Flexibility is a plus.

Must be able to drive.

Hours range from 20-30 a week.

Pay based on experience, from $19 to $22 per hour.

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submit your cover letter and resume in confidence 6Please 4 at edit@piquenewsmagazine.com 7 5 to Clare Ogilvie We look forward to hearing from you!

2 4 3 No phone calls please.

5 8 2 WHISTLER PUBLISHING 3 2 7 2 9 6 9 7 3 7 4 1 1 4 8

• Understanding and working knowledge of Child Care Licensing regulations • Interpersonal, written, oral communication skills and maintaining positive communication with parents • Collaborating with community service providers, Self-directed and able to initiate and complete projects

5

If you like to have fun and work for a great family, please email your resume to jonesljenny@gmail.com

Limited Partnership

• Clear Criminal Records Check & Current First Aid • Food Safe or willingness to obtain • Some knowledge of curriculum and philosophies in First Nations Early Childhood settings.

MEDIUM

Terms of Employment: • Full-time, Monday to Friday hours to be determined • Start Date: As soon as possible

We’re Hiring

Wickaninnish Inn Ancient Cedars Spa Hiring Enjoy the Tofino lifestyle while working at an internationally awarded and intimate spa set on the edge of the Pacific Ocean.

Current opportunities: Spa Practitioner, Esthetician, Coordinator, Attendant. jobs@wickinn.com MEDIUM wickinn.com/careers

# 51

HO S TS S E RV E R A S S IS TA N T S

WHISTLER’S #1 NEWS SOURCE

Our team is looking to add individuals with a variety of skill sets and experience. Friendly, hardworking candidates are invited to apply.

• Wage: (negotiable depending on experience)

# 49

Deadline: until position is filled We thank all those who apply. Only those candidates selected for interview will be contacted.

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To submit your resume online visit: toptable.ca/careers-page # 50 5 6 1 2 3 4 8 3 5 4 8 9 7 2 6 1 1 4 8 9 7 6 5 8 2 1 3 4 6 9 5 7 Staff Housing7 May Be2 Available 4 Affordable 3 5 7 2 1 9 6 9 5 1 8 4 3 2 7 Competitive 4 1 6 9 3 4 9 6 7 Package 1 5 3 2 8 Wage + Benefits 7 8 3 6 5 2 1 5 1 8 4 3 2 6 7 9 3We2 offer 9 5 year-round 8 7 4 2 3 7 9hours, 6 8 gratuities, 5 1 4 full and part-time 9 potential 1 6 8 4for3future 2 9 4 the 2 company 1 5 3 7 and 8 6an growth within 6 employee 5 2 3 9 discount 8 7 1 8 Group 5 6 7 restaurants.

9 4 3 2 at all Toptable 8 9 7 4 1 5 6 6 7 3 2 8 4 1 9 5

www.sudoku.com

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Limited Partnership

• Valid Early Childhood Educator Certificate, ECE Licence to Practice or going to school to take Early Childhood Educator courses.

9

***Local Automotive*** Automotive technician for year round position in Whistler. 604-905-9109 steve@localautomotive.com

WHISTLER PUBLISHING

In addition, the Early Childhood Educators will have: • A minimum of 2 years work experience in a child care setting

1 5

homework and encourage MEDIUM them to keep room tidy, run occasional errands, and drive girls to activities.

# 49

To apply, send your resume, clippings, videos demonstrating your ability as a writer and in editorial layout and social media, and in lieu of a cover letter, a column (maximum 450 words) making the case for why we should hire you, by 4 p.m. on April 2, 2021 to:

• Physically ability to carry out the duties of the position.

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2NANNY/ 9 FAMILY4HELPER1 Looking for a positive, responsible and 1 for two girls 7 9 fun nanny aged 4 and 7.

3with2 Duties include help

Located in the mountain resort town of Whistler, British Columbia, Pique Newsmagazine is the unequivocal leader in reporting, interpreting and understanding the culture of the Coast Mountains and what it means to those who live, work and play in Whistler. As such, having a background enjoying outdoor sport such as skiing, riding, touring, hiking or biking is a strong asset to your application.

• Ability to establish and maintain supportive, collaborative relationships with families and staff.

3 4

8

America’s premier mountain resort.

The N’Quatqua First Nation is seeking 2 qualified Early Childhood Educators. One is a full-time permanent position, the other is a full time maternity leave position at N’Quatqua Child and Family Development Centre. The successful candidates will join our NCFDC team. The Early Childhood Educators work as team members with other child care setting staff and with all the children and families providing general support to the whole program to ensure effective inclusion of the children.

56 MARCH 25, 2021

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

THE FIRST PLACE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB OPENINGS

N’Quatqua Child and Family Development Centre PO BOX

Cover Letter & Resume to: Title: Lisa Sambo, Manager Agency: N’Quatqua Child and Family Development Centre Email: lisa.sambo@nquatqua.ca Fax: 604-452-3295/3280

EMPLOYMENT

# 51

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classifieds.piquenewsmagazine.com

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THE FIRST PLACE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB OPENINGS

join TRAVEL CONSULTANT Full Time, Year Round

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. Shifts are 4 x 10 hour days per week and start date is flexible.

TO VIEW OUR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES, AND TO APPLY, VISIT US ONLINE AT WHISTLER.COM/CAREERS.

h s e r f the

n o i t u l evo ler

LOCATED IN WHISTLER MARKETPLACE VILLAGE NORTH

#whist

Work & Play Program #loveyourjob

• Competitive Wages • Affordable Staff Accommodation Available for Successful Candidates • Extended Health & Dental Plans • Healthy & Fun Place to Work • 10% off Groceries

WE’RE HIRING PRODUCE EXPERTS • DELI EXPERTS To apply, send resume to careers@freshstmarket.com

The Sweetest Job In Town!

WE’RE HIRING

We’re Hiring!

For the right candidate we offer a Ski Pass and Competitive Wages.

OPERATIONS MANAGER If you thrive in a dynamic environment and are skilled at managing people, equipment, and systems please apply in confidence to join our team at: https://secure.collage.co/jobs/coastalmountain/21269

Full time & part time positions available.

Work in a fun environment and with a great team!

Whistler’s only dedicated wedding magazine.

AVAILABLE ON STANDS IN THE SEA TO SKY

WIDE OPEN WELDING IS CURRENTLY LOOKING TO FILL THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:

FABRICATORS & ERECTORS Please forward your resume to contactus@wideopenwelding.com

Apply in person with resume at our store in Whistler’s Marketplace.

Staff accommodation in village available for select staff.

GreatGlassElevatorCandyShop.com

Employment Opportunities: DO YOU LIVE IN PEMBERTON? THEN WHY COMMUTE TO WHISTLER?

Guest Services Agents Room Attendants

Apply to: jobs@pembertonvalleylodge.com

Competitive wages, health benefits, casual environment MARCH 25, 2021

57

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PIQUENEWSMAGAZINE.COM/JOBS

THE FIRST PLACE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB OPENINGS

Regional Business Liaison (Temporary Full-time) 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, trails and open spaces as well as financial support for various community services.

The SLRD is seeking to fill the temporary (one year), full-time position of Regional Business Liaison. Reporting to the Communications and Engagement Manager, this position will encompass a wide range of responsibilities for the development, coordination and implementation of the Rural Business and Community Recovery Program for the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District. This position will work closely with existing business support agencies in the SLRD to support local businesses through the recovery phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and connect businesses with resources to navigate the challenge of COVID-19 recovery - potentially the transition to online, curbside and delivery services, and initiatives such as “buy local”.

Collaborating with Economic Development Officers and organisations, the Regional Business Liaison will help to advance the economic development strategies and initiatives throughout the SLRD region, from Porteau Cove to rural Lillooet and the Upper Bridge River Valley. In addition to acting as a liaison, the position provides services to communities, local businesses, non-profit organizations and Indigenous-owned businesses within the SLRD, to source, access and utilize the support programs made available in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Regional Business Liaison provides business planning support for small businesses, coordinates access to funding opportunities and may assist with identifying grant opportunities.

Scandinave Spa is hosting it’s annual summer job fair from March 31st to April 6th.

•

• • • • •

The ideal candidate will have post-secondary training in economics, business administration or management, and will also possess demonstrated skills, and experience in the following areas: • Excellent research and analytical skills; • Sound analytical thinking, decision-making, planning, prioritization and execution skills culminating in results-oriented problem solving; • High degree of resourcefulness, flexibility and adaptability; • Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills; • High level of integrity, confidentiality and accountability; The RBL must reside within the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District.

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

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume with a covering letter by email, no later than April 8, 2021 to: Nathalie Klein, Administrative Assistant nklein@slrd.bc.ca We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

• • • • •

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR Guest Experience Agents – Attentiveness and Above & Beyond Attitude Reservation Agents Patience and Interpersonal Skills Spa Experience Attendants Team Spirit Night Cleaners – Night Owl Guest Experience Team Lead Empathetic and Supportive Maintenance Helper Handy with tools and Efficient WHAT WE ARE OFFERING Free bath access for you and a friend Free massage after 3 months probation Extended health benefits Subsidized staff accommodation Great work environment focused on work life balance Don’t miss out. Apply now at www.scandinave.com/en/careers/ location/whistler

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 48  Squamish  Whistler  Pemberton

MECHANIC School District No. 48 (Sea to Sky) is accepting applications for the following position: Mechanic - Full time – Squamish area This position is covered by our CUPE Collective Agreement and offers a competitive rate of pay and benefits package.

Further information regarding this position and the School District can be found at https:// www.makeafuture.ca/regions-districts/bc-public-school-districts/metro/sea-to-sky/ Please note applications for this position will be received up to 4:00 pm on Tuesday, March 30, 2021

58 MARCH 25, 2021

CASHIERS

(FULL TIME AND PART TIME)

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Four Seasons Resort Whistler APPLY NOW FOR: Guestroom attendant Night Cleaner & House Attendant Competitive salary, Great Perks and HOUSING CONTACT LUCAS LUCAS.PERELSTEIN@FOURSEASONS.COM

OR APPLY ONLINE AT JOBS.FOURSEASONS.COM

H I G H M O U N TA I N BREWING CO. BREWHOUSE WHISTLER, BC

Be a part of our dynamic team at one of Whistler’s busiest spots!

At The High Mountain Brewing Company, Whistler Brewhouse, we take pride in our product and service - From the busy patio to the cozy two-sided fireplace, from our exceptional pizzas to our hand-crafted beer.

We are currently looking for

• Sous Chef • Line cooks • Dishwashers • Front of House support

THE FIRST PLACE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB OPENINGS

Administrative Clerk (Permanent Full-Time)

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, trails and open spaces as well as financial support for various community services.

The SLRD is seeking to fill the permanent, full-time position of Administrative Clerk. The purpose of this position is to carry out a range of clerical and administrative duties in support of the SLRD’s Legislative and Corporate Services Department.

The ideal candidate will possess demonstrated skills and experience in the following areas: • • • • • •

Strong customer service focus.

Reception/front counter/mail duties.

Maintenance of office supplies, corporate records, databases, and manuals.

Preparation of routine correspondence.

Assist with organization of office, including coffee and lunch room duties.

Liaise with suppliers/vendors and external organizations.

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 midnight on April 11, 2021 to: Nathalie Klein, Executive Assistant Squamish-Lillooet Regional District nklein@slrd.bc.ca We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

We offer comprehensive benefits packages after a probationary period, as well as competitive wages.

Please come by with your resume or apply via email to mvedan@mjg.ca WHISTLER, BC, V0N 1B4

We are currently hiring Full Time Sales Representatives with personality!

Glacier Media Group is growing. Check our job board regularly for the latest openings: www.glaciermedia.ca/careers

R001408475

4355 BLACKCOMB WAY

Please stop by our Whistler Village location with your resume to fill out an application and say Hi to Michelle or Taylor.

(4154 Village Green) MARCH 25, 2021

59

CALL THE EXPERTS

Want to advertise your service on this page?

BLINDS ETC.

Call Pique at (604) 938-0202, or email sales@piquenewsmagazine.com

BLINDS ETC.

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SUNCREST WINDOW COVERINGS

WINDOW COVERINGS Whistler’s Source for Blinds since 1989

Custom Blinds • Shades • Draperies

• BLINDS • SHADES

• SHUTTERS • DRAPERY

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Custom Window Treatments Contact us today for a free quote or consultation info@suncrestwindowcoverings.com

CARPET CLEANING

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CLEANING

BLACK BEAR CARPET CLEANING LTD. • CARPETS • UPHOLSTERY

• TILES • CAR INTERIORS

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www.blackbearcarpetcleaning.ca • 604 698 6610

604-966-1437

coastmountaincleaning@gmail.com

FURNITURE

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Wood blinds Sunscreens Shades Motorization

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ummer

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We follow all VCH, Min of Health and WHO Covid 19 protocols

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We use tea tree oil based cleaning products.

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Specialized in cleaning Chimneys, Furnace & Airducts, Dryer vents.

Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc.

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• Carpentry • Tiling • Drywall Repairs • Texture Finishing • Renovations • Installation • Painting • Plumbing • Snow Removal • Appliance Repairs Ask Us About • Mine Sweeping Your Home ROB PIDGEON • 604-932-7707 • Bonded & Insured

find us on

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HEATING AND COOLING

PAINT

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Western Technical System Inc

HVAC/R

WHISTLER PROPERTY SERVICES

Our paint team has over 25 years combined paint sales experience, and we can help you get things right the first time. Now offering In Home Paint Consultations! Pemberton Valley Rona.

Let us help you love where you live.

Residential/Commercial Heat Pumps Boilers-Furnaces-Chillers Design Build Call us today! 778-994-3159 www.westerntechnical.net

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REAL ESTATE

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60 MARCH 25, 2021

Search properties in Whistler and Pemberton at www.DaveBeattie.com

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PUZZLES ACROSS 1 6 11 16 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 33 35 36 38 39 41 43 45 47 49 53 54 55 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 68 69

Decided on Alaskan pole One’s history, in a way Piquant -- donna Bring down in status Whinny Get acclimated In judge’s garb The March King Outraged Danger Church response Bronze component Numeral Broom companion Pump abbr.

Multitude Hobby ender Bundle of grain Carouses Made a loan Doesn’t eat Water or rust Charting Ms. Williams of tennis Pita sandwich Warrior princess Legislates Rapidity Song of joy TV button Viennese dessert Tracks down Cheerful License -Summer cooler Designations

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Lamp necessity Lead-footed driver Diminished Stately trees Powwow drum (hyph.)

Disquiet Flood barrier Sidekicks Surpass Injure Unusual thing Sour-tasting Arizona city Reporters’ bosses Wrinkle-nosed dogs Test versions Annoy Fir cousins Overflowing Jacket part Pool table cover Driver’s peg Well-dressed Kept near the shore Spruce up Pitch Lose feathers Deed Most impetuous Use arguments Foamy Bunyan’s ox Sausage herb Make a speech Validate Cease-fire Ms. Thurman of “Gattaca” Nibbled on

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By oneself Ms. MacGraw of film WWW addresses Relocated Eva or Zsa Zsa Wireless set Silver bar Blank a tape Dirt Inexperienced Kitchen strainer Protest song writer Joined with Vassals Out, at the dentist’s

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Winfrey of TV Ad Rome’s river Correct a text Family man Sampling Orchestra member Ridicule Superman’s emblem Fermented honey Round Table members Craggy abodes Rodeo noose Co. honchos Excuse me!

Went quickly WSW opposite Groundswell Ordeal Cheers Newsstand buy Rigel’s constellation

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Aristocracy Entry hall Hassle Space widths Galas Cookout intruders ER pictures (hyph.)

“Heavy” music Battery post Whittles down Interest amt.

Barn toppers “Grand Hotel” star Find a loophole Short letters Warn Jeeplike vehicle Hides Strong and healthy Pyramid find Await action Film director Mervyn -Firm refusal Spells Golf strokes Blackboard Chicken piece Like a castle Freud’s concerns Hard outer layer Eurasian mountains Distance down “So long!”

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Where Pago Pago is Incorrectly “Where’s --?”

Back muscles Assail Pleased sigh Silvery fish Improve the highway Slap the cuffs on ICU worker Coached Distributes Heavy Seven-veil dancer Conviction Smoldered Atlanta campus

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Maritime Frenzied Skywalker’s father Tiff (hyph.)

More than asked Spice tree Chemical compound Omelet base Units of energy Spanish “that” Jackie’s second “-- you kidding?”

Ames inst.

LAST WEEKS’ ANSWERS

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# 50

Enter a digit from 1 through 9 in each cell, in such a way that: • Each horizontal row contains each digit exactly once • Each vertical column contains each digit exactly once • Each 3x3 box contains each digit exactly once Solving a sudoku puzzle does not require any mathematics; simple logic suffices.

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM

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MEDIUM Solution, tips and computer program at www.sudoku.com# 51

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 56

MARCH 25, 2021

61

MAXED OUT

What would you like to see on the Northlands lot?

BEING MOSTLY CANADIAN —albeit with more than a soupcon of U.S. influence in its history—and wildly successful, it’s inevitable Whistler is destined to spend an inordinate amount of time pokin’ the ol’ belly button and contemplating the cosmic questions: What makes me different and what do I want to be when I grow up?

It was all so much easier when we were smaller, younger, nowhere near world-class and hadn’t sold our soul to the devil for success and fame. What made us different then was quintessentially Canadian—our geography, the dynamic mix of homegrown

BY G.D. MAXWELL Canadians and more travelled foreigners who became the visionaries behind this experiment, and their harebrained notion they could build a damn fine ski resort at the far end of the country, in the middle of a rain forest, within a long stone’s throw of an arm of the Pacific Ocean. Best not to forget it was the ‘60s; who knew what they were smoking.

That the experiment worked at all is largely the fault of, among others, Al Raine and Hugh Smythe. If Al hadn’t been so insistent in nagging the B.C. government to authorize the building of Blackcomb and Hugh hadn’t done such a good job of building it, Whistler today might be Revelstoke... with a much larger, nearby urban population base and blessedly fewer Albertans. In other words, great skiing, local mountain, nothing special.

But Whistler isn’t Revelstoke, Whistler is no longer new, Whistler isn’t simple, and as much as some of us might wish otherwise, Whistler isn’t just a ski resort anymore.

“In Xanadu did Kubla Khan a stately pleasure-dome decree….”

Coleridge’s “Xanadu” was a vision in a dream, a fragment of verse fuelled by opium. He never finished what he started because after an interruption he was never able to return to the place he started from, which is to say stoned out of his mind.

Neither can we.

The future is all we have to look forward to; the past is just a millstone around the future’s neck. Cheap nostalgia for a time we forget was marked by slow lifts, no grooming, few services and an extreme abundance of fun.

But in a back to the future kind of future, Whistler is being asked for input on, well, the future of Whistler. Or at least one of the remaining pieces of the puzzle.

As reported in last week’s Pique, an “enhanced” rezoning process has been launched for the largest remaining undeveloped piece of land in the village,

62 MARCH 25, 2021

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RESORT MUNICIPALITY OF WHISTLER

collectively called the Northlands. Cue visions of igloos.

Development of this barren hunk of paradise is the longest-running show in Whistler. Way back in the 1980s when it involved a developer who shall not be named. The proposal, approved by the municipality of the day, called for a topnotch golf instruction facility, a luxury spa in a five-star Hyatt hotel and a world-class tennis facility called, wait for it, the Bjorn Borg Whistler Resort. Holy headband!

What actually happened were the Montebello townhomes were built and the somewhat less than world-class tennis facility currently occupying part of the site.

It was not necessarily the first lesson the municipality would learn regarding making

who threatened a prolonged volley with the developer’s delicate parts.

A version actually got as far as third reading but the 2008 economic recession saved the irate tennis players from potential assault charges. In 2012, the developer gave up and requested the file be closed. The land reverted back to the zoning it had, allowing a 300,000 square foot, nine-storey hotel and spa and that world-class tennis facility.

Thus we entered the Years of Weeds.

But now, new owners, Beedie Whistler Holdings, Ltd., want to hear from Whistler folks about what they might do with the site.

I wouldn’t think of speaking for you, fellow Whistleratics, but I would offer up the notion we need a nine-storey, 450-room hotel on the site like we need another year

The future is all we have to look forward to; the past is just a millstone around the future’s neck.

developers build their promised amenities first before they make a bundle on their market build and sandbag the amenities— but it was perhaps the most bitter, given the land has sat, and sat, and sat all these years.

A cheesy Plan B was knocked around 16 years ago calling for 58 market townhouses, 123 market condos, a seniors’ apartment building and a reno of the tennis club. It was swatted down by irate tennis players

of the pandemic blues. Even before the Year of Empty Hotel Rooms, back when we were open to the world and all its Epic passholders hungry for steep vertical and big bowls, Whistler’s existing lodging sector was cryin’ the low-occupancy blues and the municipality did everything it could think of to put heads in beds.

While I don’t know the Beedie group, I can’t imagine they want to build another...

wait a minute, what am I thinking? Oh yeah, I was momentarily blinded by the H word: Hotel. Whistler has very few hotels. Whistler has far too many condo developments that look like hotels. These were both the deliverance and the devil of Whistler. Deliverance because in the early years, no one in their right mind would build a hotel. But a strata-titled condo building would spread the risk over people who wanted to own a piece of Whistler and let the developers have enough of their profit in hand before ever breaking ground.

Devil because it led to too much product too soon, since developers didn’t care whether the “hotel” rooms were ever rented.

Northlands has a Phase II covenant.

That allows condo owners to use “their” condo 56 days a year, 28 each in summer and winter, thus providing hot beds, the kind that need to be filled by tourists.

Does Whistler need more beds in which to place heads? Rhetorical question.

Without pre-empting any ideas, there has been a lot of work by Whistler’s Mature Action Community and others lobbying for seniors’ housing on this site, with its location near, well, everything. And there is zoning for employee housing, which includes retirees.

I’m not certain how, exactly, the Beedie group wants to hear from us. Apparently community engagement opportunities are planned at “key points in the process.” In the meantime, if you have a wish list of what you’d like to see on the site—and don’t say parking—drop Happy Jack or all the councillors a line. They’d love to hear from you. Way more than they’d love to hear from me. No idea’s too wacky. OK, parking is too wacky. And Bjorn Borg is way too wacky. ■

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